7 Real Reasons Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

Electric underfloor heating systems are often seen as the pinnacle of home comfort in Malta—silent, energy-efficient, and invisible. But what happens when this reliable warmth stops working without warning? You might find yourself asking: why is my electric underfloor heating not working?

That question can be stressful, especially if it’s the middle of winter or your tiles feel like ice. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common causes behind a faulty electric underfloor heating system, how to troubleshoot it like a pro, and what you can do to fix it or upgrade it.

Let’s dive in and get your home feeling warm and cozy again.

1. Faulty Thermostat: The Brain of the Operation| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

One of the most common answers to why is my electric underfloor heating not working lies with your thermostat. Think of the thermostat as the system’s brain—if it malfunctions, the entire heating network can become unresponsive.

Common Issues with Thermostats:

• Incorrect settings: Sometimes, the problem is as simple as the thermostat not being set to the correct temperature or mode (e.g., manual instead of automatic).

• Sensor failure: If the temperature sensor is damaged or disconnected, the thermostat won’t get accurate readings.

• Power issues: A blown fuse, tripped breaker, or loose connection may cut power to the thermostat, making it seem like the system is dead.

What to Do:

• Double-check settings.

• Test the thermostat display—if it’s blank or flickering, you likely have an electrical issue.

• If you’re using a programmable model, try resetting it to factory settings.

Still no luck? A replacement might be necessary. Thermostats in Malta start at around €60, but smart models offering remote control can cost upwards of €180.

2. Damaged Heating Cables Under the Floor| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

This is where things can get trickier. Electric underfloor heating relies on a network of heating wires or mats embedded beneath your floor. If one of those cables breaks, a portion—or all—of your heating will fail.

Why It Happens:

• Poor installation practices (e.g., nails, screws, or sharp tools damaging cables during tile laying).

• Gradual wear and tear over time.

• Heavy furniture or frequent remodeling that places pressure on specific areas.

Signs You Have Cable Damage:

• Uneven heating: some spots warm up while others stay cold.

• Tripping circuit breakers when the system is turned on.

• No heating at all despite the thermostat working fine.

Diagnosis:

A qualified electrician can use a thermal imaging camera or continuity tester to pinpoint the break. This kind of diagnostic test in Malta typically costs €50–€120 depending on the complexity.

If a repair is needed, expect cable patching to cost around €150–€300 depending on the floor finish and the size of the damaged area.

3. Wiring or Electrical Faults| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

Sometimes the issue isn’t with the heating system itself, but rather the wiring that connects everything. If you’re wondering why is my electric underfloor heating not working, a short or break in the wiring may be to blame.

Common Wiring Issues:

• Loose connections behind the thermostat.

• Corrosion in older systems, especially in humid areas.

• Breaks in the wiring between the power source and the heating mat.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Check the circuit breaker and fuse box. Has anything tripped?

• Inspect visible wiring for signs of damage or burn marks.

• Use a voltage tester to confirm if electricity is flowing to the system.

Professional rewiring or fixing faulty connections can cost €100–€250, depending on complexity and access.

💡 Pro Tip: Always use licensed electricians when dealing with underfloor heating systems. Safety comes first.

4. Your Floor Isn’t Insulated Properly| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

Sometimes, the system is working—but you’re not feeling the heat because it’s being lost through the floor substrate. This is especially common in older Maltese homes that weren’t built with modern insulation standards.

Signs of Heat Loss:

• High energy bills with little warmth.

• Long heating times before floors become noticeably warm.

• Uneven heating, especially on the lower floors or basement levels.

Solutions:

• Retrofitting insulation boards beneath the heating mat.

• Installing reflective foil insulation in newer systems.

While retrofitting can be labor-intensive, it can slash your energy bills by 20–30%, and prices for insulation materials start at around €15/m².

If you’re in the process of renovating or installing a new system, we highly recommend doing it right from the start. You can check out our underfloor heating services here—we offer professional consultations and full system installations using high-efficiency materials.

5. Incorrect Timer or Program Settings| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

Another overlooked reason why is my electric underfloor heating not working is poor programming. If your system has a smart thermostat or timer, it may not be active at the time you’re checking it.

What to Check:

• Is the heating set to come on only during certain hours?

• Is it in “eco” mode or vacation mode?

• Are the time and date settings correct on the controller?

The Fix:

• Reprogram your settings or perform a factory reset.

• Update the firmware on smart thermostats (if supported).

• Consult your user manual or reach out to the manufacturer’s customer support.

Many Maltese homeowners who switch to programmable thermostats report reduced energy consumption—up to €100 per year—when schedules are optimized.

6. The Heating System is Too Old| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

Electric underfloor heating systems generally last between 15 to 25 years, depending on usage and maintenance. If your system is pushing those limits, deterioration of internal components can lead to complete or partial failure.

Warning Signs of Aging:

• The floor takes noticeably longer to heat up.

• The system is noisier (buzzing or clicking).

• You’ve had to repair it multiple times in the past few years.

The Solution:

At this point, you may be better off replacing the system rather than constantly repairing it. Newer models are far more energy-efficient and easier to control with smart devices.

Full system replacement (including materials and labor) in Malta can range from €1,200 to €2,500, depending on the surface area and floor type.

7. Installation Error from the Start| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

Unfortunately, we encounter this more often than we’d like. If your system was installed by someone without proper training, small mistakes during the setup phase could lead to long-term failure.

Examples:

• Overlapping heating cables (causes overheating).

• Poor electrical connections.

• Missing insulation layers beneath the heating mat.

If you suspect this could be your issue, it’s time to have a professional inspection done. Our team at Kibitec is highly experienced in fault-finding and correcting improper installations. And yes—we do installations too!

How to Diagnose the Problem Like a Pro| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’ve already tried the basic fixes and are still asking: why is my electric underfloor heating not working? The good news is that with a systematic approach, you can often narrow down the issue—especially if you know what to look for.

Here’s a practical diagnostic flow to follow:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start at the Thermostat
   Check the screen. Is it blank? Check circuit breakers or fuses. If it’s on but not heating, double-check the schedule or try switching to manual mode.

2. Test Floor Temperature
   If it feels cold, even when the system is active, your floor sensor or cables may be faulty.

3. Use a Multimeter
   A multimeter can check voltage output from the thermostat to ensure power is being sent to the heating elements. This step is best left to electricians unless you’re experienced with electrical systems.

4. Thermal Imaging
   An infrared camera can detect hotspots or cold patches under the floor—pinpointing the exact area of failure. Many local pros in Malta offer this service for around €80–€150.

Still stuck? A full diagnostic visit with one of our specialists can help you solve the mystery. Contact us to schedule a visit.

Energy Efficiency Tips to Avoid Future Problems| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

Not only does proper use extend your system’s life, but it also saves you money. If you’re trying to avoid having to ask again, “why is my electric underfloor heating not working?”, then smart usage is key.

Set Smart Timers

Don’t leave your system on 24/7. Use programmable settings to heat your home during peak hours—early morning and evening—and keep it off when you’re out.

Don’t Crank It Up

Electric underfloor heating works best when set between 21°C and 25°C. Pushing it higher strains the system without significantly improving comfort.

Annual System Checkup

Just like your car, an annual inspection can prevent long-term issues. A yearly inspection in Malta ranges between €70–€120, and it’s a small investment for peace of mind.

Avoid Heavy Rugs

Thick rugs act as insulators, trapping heat and causing your system to work harder. If you must use rugs, opt for low-tog versions that allow heat to rise effectively.

When to Repair vs. When to Replace| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

It’s a tough call: should you fix the system or upgrade to something new?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Still unsure what’s best for your setup? We’ll give you a full diagnostic and transparent advice. You can contact us with your issue anytime.

Why Professional Installation Matters| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

One of the major reasons people end up Googling “why is my electric underfloor heating not working” is because of poor installation. Sadly, we’ve seen it far too often here in Malta.

Benefits of Expert Installation:

• Guaranteed cable spacing and coverage

• Correct insulation placement to reduce heat loss

• Fully tested electrical wiring and secure connections

• Adherence to EU safety standards and regulations

That’s why at Kibitec, we use high-performance materials and seasoned technicians who get it right the first time.

FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Issues| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

❓ How long should electric underfloor heating take to warm up?

Usually 30–60 minutes, depending on insulation and floor type. If it takes longer, there could be a problem with the system or installation.

❓ Can I fix underfloor heating myself?

You can troubleshoot, but actual repairs—especially electrical or subfloor work—should always be done by a professional to avoid safety risks.

❓ Why is only part of my floor heating up?

This usually means there’s a break or fault in the heating cable or mat in that area.

❓ Does electric underfloor heating increase electricity bills?

Not if it’s used correctly. In fact, efficient usage can help reduce heating costs. A properly insulated system uses €0.07–€0.15 per square meter per hour.

❓ Should I get my system checked annually?

Yes. Annual maintenance can catch small issues before they become costly repairs.

Final Thoughts: Your Comfort is Our Priority| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

When your floor stops heating up, it’s more than just a comfort issue—it affects your whole home experience. If you’ve been asking why is my electric underfloor heating not working, now you have a full roadmap of what might be going wrong and how to fix it.

Whether it’s your thermostat, your wiring, or a full system fault—we’re here to help.

✅ Ready to fix or upgrade your system?| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

📞 Contact us today for expert diagnostics, repairs, or installations tailored to homes in Malta.

🔧 Interested in installing a brand-new, ultra-efficient system?| Why Is My Electric Underfloor Heating Not Working

👉 Check out our underfloor heating services here and see why so many homeowners in Malta trust us with their comfort.