Smart Heating & Underfloor Heating: What New Homeowners Need to Know
Smart Heating & Underfloor Heating in Leeds
Heating is one of the most important factors in comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings for homeowners. With rising energy prices and a growing focus on sustainability, more homeowners are looking for smarter, more efficient heating solutions. Smart heating and underfloor heating are two of the best options for modern homes, offering greater control, energy savings, and improved comfort. But how do they work, and are they worth the investment?
At Smart Ohm, we work with homebuilders, developers, and self-builders across Leeds, Harrogate, Wetherby, York, and nationwide, helping them install energy-efficient heating systems that make homes smarter and more cost-effective. Here’s everything new homeowners need to know about smart heating and underfloor heating.
What Is Smart Heating & How Does It Work?
Smart heating allows homeowners to control their heating remotely using a smart thermostat, mobile app, or voice commands. Unlike traditional heating, which operates on a fixed schedule, smart heating adapts to your routine and optimises energy usage. Key Features of Smart Heating Systems:
- Remote Control – Adjust heating via a smartphone app, even when away from home.
- Zoned Heating – Control different rooms or areas separately for maximum efficiency.
- Learning Technology – Systems like Nest & Hive learn user habits for automatic scheduling.
- Voice Assistant Integration – Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Control4.
- Energy Usage Tracking – Monitor real-time energy consumption to reduce costs.
The Benefits of Smart Heating
Installing a smart heating system provides a range of benefits for homeowners and developers.
- Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings - Smart thermostats help reduce energy bills by ensuring that heating is only used when needed. Studies suggest smart heating can cut energy costs by up to 30%.
- Convenience & Remote Access - Control your home’s heating from anywhere—turn the heating on before arriving home, or off when leaving unexpectedly.
- Better Temperature Control - Zoned heating ensures rooms aren’t overheated, and heat isn’t wasted in unused areas.
- Eco-Friendly & Future-Proof - Smart heating systems reduce carbon footprints and align with government energy efficiency targets.
What Is Zoned Heating & Why Is It Important?
Zoned heating allows homeowners to control the temperature in different rooms or areas independently, rather than heating the entire home at once.
Why Zoned Heating Is a Smart Choice
- Reduces energy waste – No need to heat empty rooms.
- Increases comfort – Different temperatures in bedrooms, living spaces, and bathrooms.
- Perfect for large homes – Helps multi-floor properties manage heat distribution efficiently.
How to Set Up Zoned Heating:
- Install smart thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) on radiators.
- Use underfloor heating zones to control specific areas.
- Integrate with Control4, Nest, or Hive for app & voice control.
Underfloor Heating: Is It a Worthwhile Investment?
Underfloor heating (UFH) is becoming a popular alternative to traditional radiators, offering even heat distribution and space-saving benefits. But is it worth the investment?
Types of Underfloor Heating:
Electric Underfloor Heating (Dry System)
- Best for renovations & small areas (bathrooms, kitchens).
- Easier & cheaper to install than water-based systems.
- Can be controlled via smart thermostats.
- Higher running costs than water-based UFH.
Water-Based Underfloor Heating (Wet System)
- Best for new builds & whole-home heating.
- More energy-efficient than electric UFH.
- Works well with heat pumps & renewable energy.
- Higher installation cost but lower running costs.
Pros & Cons of Underfloor Heating
Pros | Cons |
Even heat distribution | Higher installation costs (especially wet systems) |
More energy-efficient than radiators | Installation can be disruptive in renovations |
Compatible with smart thermostats | Longer heat-up times compared to radiators |
Free up wall space (no radiators) | Requires correct flooring for best efficiency |
Is Underfloor Heating Worth It?
- If you’re building a new home, water-based UFH is a great investment for energy efficiency and comfort.
- If you’re renovating, electric UFH is an easier way to add luxury heating to bathrooms and kitchens.
How Smart Heating & UFH Work Together
For maximum efficiency, smart heating should be integrated with underfloor heating using a home automation system like Control4.
How to Combine Smart Heating & UFH:
- Smart Thermostats – Control UFH & radiators remotely.
- Zoning Systems – Manage different rooms individually.
- Renewable Energy Integration – Use solar panels or heat pumps for eco-friendly heating.
Smart Heating & UFH for Developers & Homebuilders
If you’re a developer or self-builder, installing smart heating & underfloor heating can make your property more energy-efficient, desirable, and valuable.
Benefits for Developers & Homebuilders:
- Higher Property Value – Smart homes sell for higher prices.
- Appeal to Eco-Conscious Buyers – Lower energy bills & carbon footprints.
- Future-Proofing – Meets new energy regulations & government efficiency standards.
- Luxury Appeal – Underfloor heating is seen as a premium feature.
Work with Smart Ohm for Expert Smart Heating Installation
At Smart Ohm, we specialise in smart heating, underfloor heating, and energy-efficient electrical installations for new builds and renovations. Whether you’re a homeowner, developer, or self-builder, we’ll design and install the perfect heating system for your home.
- Smart Ohm – Experts in smart heating, lighting, and energy management across Leeds, Harrogate, Wetherby, York, and beyond.
- OLB Installations – Specialists in Control4 home automation, multi-room heating control, and renewable energy integration.
Our Heating Services:
- Smart Thermostat Installation (Nest, Hive, Control4).
- Zoned Heating & Smart Radiator Valves.
- Underfloor Heating Design & Installation.
- Heat Pump & Renewable Energy Integration.
Upgrade to Smart Heating Today – Contact Us
Looking to install smart heating or underfloor heating in your home? Let Smart Ohm help you design a cost-effective, energy-efficient heating system.
Proudly serving Leeds, Harrogate, Wetherby, York, and nationwide for larger projects.