Underfloor heating is undoubtedly one of the most efficient options for heating and cooling a house or apartment. However, if it is not designed and installed correctly, certain problems may arise that affect performance, comfort and expected savings.
Based on our experience, we have compiled a compilation of the real problems that can arise, why they occur, how they can be prevented and what to do if you are already experiencing them.
Main problems of underfloor heating by aerothermics
High initial investment
Installing an aerothermal system with underfloor heating requires a significant investment, especially if it is not a new construction. This is due to the need for building work, leveling floors, integrating insulation and adapting the electrical installation.
How is it compensated?
- With a previous energy study, you can estimate the savings in the medium and long term.
- Subsidies and tax deductions are available for this type of system.
- In well-insulated houses, amortization is usually achieved in 5-7 years.
2. Efficiency loss in cold climates
Although aerothermal is very efficient, its performance decreases when the outdoor temperature drops below 5 °C. This is because the system needs more energy to maintain comfort.
Possible solutions:
- Choose a suitable equipment with Inverter technology and oversized power for cold weather.
- Add an auxiliary support (heating elements, hybrid boiler or solar thermal).
3. High thermal inertia
The floor needs time to reach the desired temperature, as the concrete must first be heated before the heat is transferred to the pavement.
How is it managed?
- Programming the system to maintain a constant temperature.
- Combining underfloor heating with faster emitters such as fan coils or low temperature radiators.
4. Condensation in cooling mode
When the system works to cool the floor in summer, condensation may occur if the floor temperature drops below the dew point.
How to avoid it?
- Install humidity probes and dew point sensors.
- Control relative humidity with dehumidifiers or adequate ventilation.
- Program the system so that it does not overcool.
5. Uneven heat distribution
If the hydraulic design is not correct, or if there are poorly insulated areas, cold or hot areas may appear in the house.
Prevention:
- Adequate technical calculation of lengths and flow rates.
- Use of manifolds with balancing valves.
- Homogeneous insulation throughout the useful surface.
6. Leaks in the installation
Although rare, poor installation or defective materials can cause water or sludge leaks, resulting in stains on the floor or loss of pressure in the system.
What to do if it happens?
- Shut down the system.
- Check the pressure in the circuit.
- Call the technician to locate the leak with leak test.
- Repair without damaging pavements if there are accessible collectors.
7. Visual and sound impact of the outdoor unit.
The aerothermal pump must be placed outdoors, and can be visually or acoustically disturbing if it is not well integrated.
Tips:
- Choose a quiet model (between 40-55 dB).
- Install in a visually protected area (patio, roof or shed).
- Assess anti-vibration measures and acoustic screens.
8. Need for permits and construction work
In renovations, it may be necessary to carry out civil works and even request municipal or community of neighbors’ permits, especially in buildings.
Solution:
- Consult with a specialized installer who will take care of the project and the formalities.
- Study air conditioning alternatives if outdoor space is not available.
9. Electrical overload
Aerothermics requires an adequate contracted electrical power. In some cases, it will be necessary to increase it, which may have an additional cost.
Prevention:
- Perform load calculation from the beginning.
- Evaluate tariff with hourly discrimination or photovoltaic self-consumption.
How to prevent problems from the start
Before installing underfloor heating by aerotermia, make sure:
- To make a professional energy study.
- Verify the level of thermal insulation of the dwelling.
- Check the compatibility of the pavement.
- Confirm that there is sufficient space for the outdoor unit.
- To have a qualified and certified technical service.
- Establish a preventive maintenance plan.
What to do if you already have problems with your system
If you already have an aerothermal system with radiant floor heating and you notice failures or inefficiency:
- Check the thermostat and its settings.
- Check the hydraulic circuit pressure.
- Request a professional overhaul of the compressor, fan and heat exchangers.
- Ask for filter cleaning and manifold check.
- Consider upgrading the control system (thermostats, humidity sensors).
Most of the problems that may arise in underfloor heating systems are not failures of the system itself, but of the design, installation or maintenance. That is why it is essential to have specialized professionals, who know well the characteristics of each house and the user’s needs.
Are you considering installing an aerothermal system with underfloor heating and want to do it right from the start? Get to know ouraerothermal installation service.
