In regions where winter temperatures hover around 0°C, underfloor heating often sparks debate: Is it really necessary? We spoke with ten homeowners who chose not to install it. Their answers ranged from cost concerns to surprising everyday excuses. Beyond “expensive” and “inconvenient,” here are the real stories—and what you should know before making your own decision.

Reason ① “We missed the timing during renovation.”

One homeowner admitted they wanted underfloor heating but didn’t plan for it during renovation. By the time they realized, it was too late. They ended up adding radiators afterward.

Solution: Underfloor heating is usually installed right after electrical and plumbing work. But for existing homes, retrofitting is possible with dry electric underfloor heating systems—quick, clean, and completed in just 2–3 days.

Reason ② “Thanks to my neighbor, our home stays warm.”

A resident in an older apartment said their upstairs neighbor’s heating kept their unit cozy. They only needed occasional air conditioning.

Note: If your neighbor’s warmth “trickles down,” their energy bills are likely much higher than necessary. Proper insulation in underfloor heating dramatically improves efficiency and prevents wasted heat.

Reason ③ “We already have air conditioning.”

Many southern homeowners said a few cold months can be managed with AC, even if it feels dry and uncomfortable.

Comparison: Air conditioners blow hot air from above, while underfloor heating warms gently from the ground up. The difference in comfort—no drafts, no dryness—is remarkable.

Reason ④ “We can’t afford the gas bills.”

Some believe underfloor heating costs thousands in monthly fuel bills.

Reality: With high-efficiency boilers, proper insulation, and smart zoning, the running cost is far lower than most imagine. Many families are scared off by rumors without ever doing the actual math.

Reason ⑤ “I can handle the cold.”

A few insisted they didn’t need heating at all: “I’m tough enough to get through winter.”

Truth: After experiencing underfloor heating—walking barefoot indoors, dining in light clothing—many realize they endured unnecessary discomfort for years.

Reason ⑥ “The system from our developer was useless.”

Some residents had bad experiences with poorly installed or low-quality systems in new developments.

Lesson: Underfloor heating performance depends on multiple factors: heat source, insulation, design, and installation quality. A reliable contractor makes all the difference.

Reason ⑦ “Doesn’t underfloor heating give off radiation?”

A common myth suggests underfloor heating emits harmful radiation.

Fact: Water-based systems use hot water—no radiation at all. Even electric systems only generate low-frequency, non-ionizing fields (like a TV or refrigerator), well below global safety standards.

Reason ⑧ “Renovation is too disruptive.”

The thought of tearing up floors and moving furniture discouraged many.

Update: Modern dry underfloor heating systems are lightweight, quick to install, and don’t require heavy construction. Professional installers also handle furniture relocation—no need to “tear your home apart.”

Reason ⑨ “Not worth the cost for just a few months a year.”

Some argued it’s too expensive for seasonal use.

Perspective: A full installation for a 100m² home may cost around $2,000—a small fraction compared to the price of the home and renovation. Yet it delivers daily comfort for decades of winters.

Reason ⑩ “What if it leaks?”

Concerns about underground pipes leaking and damaging property are common.

Reassurance: Quality piping and insulation are designed to last as long as the building itself. Routine checks and servicing keep the system reliable. Components like boilers and manifolds are also easily accessible for maintenance.

The Takeaway

Deciding against underfloor heating often comes down to short-term inconvenience versus long-term comfort. While some may endure the cold, underfloor heating offers a lifestyle upgrade: a warm, cozy home where you can walk barefoot in winter and truly enjoy the season.