When it comes to modern comfort in home design, one question keeps popping up: what is underfloor heating and is it really worth investing in? The short answer? Yes — underfloor heating is a game-changer. It’s no longer just a luxury for high-end hotels or spas. Homeowners and businesses in Malta are quickly discovering how this hidden heating system can provide efficient warmth, cleaner interiors, and long-term savings.
In this blog, we’ll break down what is underfloor heating, how it works, the types available, and why it might be the upgrade your space desperately needs. Whether you’re renovating your home, building from scratch, or just tired of bulky radiators, underfloor heating might just be the smartest investment you’ll make this year.
🌡️ What Is Underfloor Heating?| What Is Underfloor Heating
Let’s get straight to the point: what is underfloor heating?
Underfloor heating is a modern heating system installed beneath the floor surface of your home or building. Instead of traditional radiators that heat the air around them, underfloor heating spreads warmth evenly across the entire floor area — from corner to corner. Think of it like walking barefoot on a heated tile in winter — except it’s your entire floor, all the time.
This system turns your entire floor into a radiant heater, keeping rooms cozy while saving energy. It can be used as the primary source of heat or as a supplementary system in key rooms like bathrooms, kitchens, or living spaces.
And here’s the best part: you don’t see it, but you feel it everywhere.
There are two main types of underfloor heating systems:
Electric underfloor heating (also known as a dry system)
Hydronic underfloor heating (water-based or wet system)
We’ll explain more about those in a bit, but both share one major benefit: comfort without clutter.
🔧 How Does Underfloor Heating Work?| What Is Underfloor Heating
If you’re still wondering what is underfloor heating, it helps to know how it functions. Whether it’s electric or water-based, the principle is the same — heat is distributed from beneath your floor and radiates upward.
1. Electric (Dry) Systems
Electric systems use ultra-thin heating wires installed beneath the flooring. These wires are connected to your home’s electrical circuit and controlled via a programmable thermostat. The heating mats or cables are laid under tiles, laminate, or even carpet.
This type is ideal for:
Small areas like bathrooms or hallways
Retrofits or renovations
Fast installation (can be done in a day or two)
Electric systems are often more affordable upfront, with prices starting from €50–€80 per m², depending on the area and features.
2. Water-Based (Wet) Systems
Hydronic systems circulate warm water through a network of pipes installed under the floor. This water is heated by a boiler or heat pump. It’s incredibly efficient, especially for larger spaces or entire homes.
While installation is more complex and may cost from €90–€150 per m², the long-term energy savings are significant.
Both systems are energy-efficient and can reduce heating costs by up to 25% compared to conventional radiators — especially when combined with smart thermostats and renewable energy sources like solar panels.
🏠 Where Can Underfloor Heating Be Installed?| What Is Underfloor Heating
Now that you understand what is underfloor heating, you might be wondering where you can use it. Good news: almost anywhere!
Underfloor heating can be installed under:
Ceramic or porcelain tiles
Natural stone
Laminate and engineered wood
Carpet (with the right insulation)
Vinyl flooring
Whether it’s a cozy home in Sliema or a modern office space in Valletta, underfloor heating fits seamlessly into Maltese architecture. It’s perfect for:
Bathrooms: No more stepping onto freezing tiles
Living rooms: Even heat distribution with no cold spots
Bedrooms: Quiet, allergen-free warmth
Open-plan spaces: Maximize floor area without radiators in the way
Installation is easiest during new builds or major renovations, but with the right team — like ours at Kibitec — we can retrofit it into most existing spaces without major disruptions.
💰 Is Underfloor Heating Expensive in Malta?| What Is Underfloor Heating
Let’s talk money. Is it affordable? Is it worth the cost?
The investment for underfloor heating in Malta varies depending on the size of your home, the type of system you choose, and the materials involved. Here’s a rough cost breakdown:
| System Type | Cost per m² | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | €50–€80 | Small rooms, renovations |
| Water-Based | €90–€150 | Full-home systems, new builds |
Add thermostats, installation, insulation boards, and flooring materials, and your total investment might range from €1,500 to €6,000+ for a medium-sized home. But don’t let that scare you off — underfloor heating pays off.
You save energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and avoid maintenance costs associated with radiators (no bleeding, no rusty pipes, no strange noises). You also increase your property’s value, especially with Malta’s growing eco-conscious housing market.
💡 Why Choose Underfloor Heating Over Radiators?| What Is Underfloor Heating
By now, you know what is underfloor heating, but let’s dig deeper into the why. Why are so many homeowners ditching radiators and opting for invisible heat?
✅ Energy Efficiency| What Is Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating operates at lower temperatures (around 29–35°C) compared to radiators (typically 65–75°C), meaning it uses less energy to maintain a consistent room temperature.
✅ Design Freedom| What Is Underfloor Heating
No more radiators taking up valuable wall space. You can finally place that furniture where you want it — no more awkward layouts!
✅ Healthier Air| What Is Underfloor Heating
Traditional radiators circulate dust and allergens as they heat the air. Underfloor heating uses radiant heat, keeping the air cleaner and improving indoor air quality — perfect for people with asthma or allergies.
✅ Even Heat Distribution| What Is Underfloor Heating
Forget hot and cold zones. Underfloor heating spreads warmth uniformly, making every step feel cozy.
✅ Maintenance-Free| What Is Underfloor Heating
Once installed, these systems require little to no maintenance. A properly installed system can last 25–50 years — longer than many boilers or radiators.
🌍 A Green Heating Solution for Malta| What Is Underfloor Heating
Malta’s Mediterranean climate makes underfloor heating an even more compelling option. Milder winters mean your heating system doesn’t need to work as hard, and lower operating temperatures from radiant heating make it more sustainable.
When paired with solar thermal panels or heat pumps, you can create an almost zero-emissions heating system for your home or business.
Want to dive deeper into the tech side? Check out the official Wikipedia article on underfloor heating for a thorough breakdown of the physics behind radiant heat.
📞 Ready to Experience the Warmth?| What Is Underfloor Heating
If you’re still wondering what is underfloor heating, here’s the best way to find out: try it in your own home or office.
At Kibitec, we specialize in underfloor heating installation in Malta, using top-tier materials, precise engineering, and a team of certified professionals who care about comfort just as much as efficiency.
👉 Contact us today for a custom quote, or just to ask questions. We’re here to help!
Check out our full service offering:
🔥 Underfloor Heating in Malta
🧯 Common Myths About Underfloor Heating — Debunked!| What Is Underfloor Heating
Despite its growing popularity, underfloor heating still carries a few outdated misconceptions. Let’s set the record straight and address some of the most common myths we hear from homeowners in Malta.
❌ Myth #1: Underfloor Heating Is Only for New Homes
Reality: While it’s true that new builds offer an ideal setting for installation, modern systems are designed to work with renovations too. Whether you’re updating your flat in St. Julian’s or adding a new bathroom in your Marsaskala villa, retrofitting is absolutely possible with minimal floor height impact — especially with electric systems.
❌ Myth #2: It Takes Too Long to Heat a Room
Reality: That depends on the insulation and flooring type. In well-insulated homes, the warm-up time is minimal — often just 30–60 minutes. Electric systems heat faster, while hydronic ones may take longer but retain heat more efficiently once up to temperature.
❌ Myth #3: It’s Too Expensive to Run
Reality: The opposite is often true! Underfloor heating runs at much lower temperatures than radiators. Combined with thermostats and zoning (heating only the rooms you’re using), energy consumption can drop significantly — even up to 25% less on your annual heating bills.
❌ Myth #4: It Only Works With Tile Floors
Reality: Not anymore. Today’s systems are compatible with laminate, engineered wood, vinyl, and even carpet. You’ll just need to ensure the flooring product is certified for radiant heat — which we help you verify before installation.
⚙️ Electric vs. Water-Based Systems: Which One Is Right for You?| What Is Underfloor Heating
If you’re still trying to figure out which type of system fits your project, here’s a side-by-side comparison to help:
| Feature | Electric Underfloor Heating | Water-Based Underfloor Heating |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | €50–€80 per m² | €90–€150 per m² |
| Installation Time | Fast (1–2 days) | Slower (3–7 days, more prep) |
| Best For | Renovations, small rooms | New builds, large spaces |
| Efficiency | Great for targeted heating | Best for whole-home systems |
| Running Costs | Slightly higher | Lower, especially with solar or heat pump |
| Complexity | Low | Higher (needs boiler integration or pump) |
Our recommendation:
Go with electric for bathrooms, kitchens, or retrofitting individual rooms.
Opt for hydronic in new homes, large villas, or commercial spaces where long-term savings really matter.
Whichever you choose, our team at Kibitec will guide you through every step — from design to installation and post-installation support.
🧰 Underfloor Heating Maintenance Tips| What Is Underfloor Heating
The beauty of underfloor heating is how little you have to think about it once it’s installed. But like all systems, a little TLC goes a long way. Here’s how to keep it running smoothly:
✅ Schedule Professional Inspections
For water-based systems, an annual inspection helps check for leaks, pressure levels, and proper circulation. We offer yearly maintenance plans for peace of mind.
✅ Don’t Block the Heat Flow
Avoid placing thick rugs or large, low furniture (like bean bags or large sofas) directly over the heated area — it can restrict airflow and create cold spots.
✅ Use Smart Thermostats
Modern thermostats let you schedule heating based on your daily routine. You can even control zones independently — heat your bathroom in the morning, skip the guest room altogether, and enjoy energy savings on autopilot.
✅ Monitor for Unusual Changes
If a room isn’t heating as it used to or the thermostat shows unexpected readings, reach out to us. Issues are rare but easier to resolve early.
🏗️ Real Project: Underfloor Heating in a Maltese Townhouse| What Is Underfloor Heating
Let’s bring this closer to home with a recent case from a client in Rabat.
🏡 The Situation
A family was renovating their 1950s townhouse and wanted a heating solution that wouldn’t ruin the original aesthetic. Radiators were out of the question, and ducted heating was impractical due to low ceiling height.
🔍 The Solution
We installed a hydronic underfloor heating system across the ground floor — including the kitchen, open-plan living room, and two bathrooms. With smart thermostats and zone control, the system automatically adjusts depending on occupancy.
💶 The Cost
The total cost was around €7,800, including materials, installation, thermostats, and insulation boards. The family reports monthly heating bills 30% lower than when they lived in a similar-sized home with radiators.
💬 The Feedback
“We barely even notice it — until we step on the floor barefoot. It’s always warm, and the house just feels healthier. It’s one of the best decisions we made during the renovation.”
🛠️ Installation Timeline — What to Expect| What Is Underfloor Heating
If you’re seriously considering the switch, here’s what a typical underfloor heating project in Malta looks like:
📅 Step-by-Step Overview
Free Consultation
We visit your home or site and assess feasibility, materials, and your goals.System Design
We prepare a custom layout based on your flooring, room size, and heating needs.Installation (1–7 days)
Depending on system type, installation can be as quick as one day (electric) or up to a week (hydronic).Connection & Testing
We connect it to your power or boiler, test the circuits or pipes, and calibrate your thermostats.Handover & Support
You get a full walkthrough, plus ongoing support and maintenance if you choose.
🔚 Final Thoughts — Is It Time to Switch?| What Is Underfloor Heating
So, what is underfloor heating, really?
It’s not just a heating method. It’s comfort, design freedom, cleaner air, and energy efficiency, all wrapped up in one sleek system — invisible to the eye, unforgettable to the feet.
In Malta’s mild winters and rapidly modernizing property market, underfloor heating is more than a trend. It’s a long-term investment that pays off in lifestyle, savings, and sustainability.
Whether you’re planning a full renovation or just looking to heat your bathroom smarter, this system adapts to your space — and grows with your needs.
📩 Contact Us to Learn More| What Is Underfloor Heating
We’ve helped dozens of homeowners and businesses across Malta integrate radiant heating systems into their spaces. Want a quote, or just have questions about feasibility or costs?
👉 Contact our expert team here — we’d love to help you build comfort from the ground up.
🛠️ Check Out Our Full Service| What Is Underfloor Heating
Want to explore what underfloor heating can look like for your home or commercial space?
👉 See our underfloor heating service page to view options, features, and more.
Bonus Resource
Want to dive deeper into the science and history behind it? Check out the Wikipedia article on underfloor heating for more technical detail.
