Radiators vs Underfloor Heating: Which Works Best with Heat Pumps?

Heat pumps are becoming a popular alternative to traditional boilers, but many homeowners wonder: will they work with my existing radiators, or should I switch to underfloor heating? Here’s a breakdown of how both options perform with heat pumps, so you can decide what’s right for your home.

How heat pumps work with radiators
Heat pumps operate at lower water temperatures (35–55°C) compared to gas boilers (70–80°C). Standard radiators can still work, but they may need to be larger or upgraded to provide the same comfort. Modern low-temperature radiators are designed specifically for heat pump systems. This option is best suited for homes where upgrading is easier than retrofitting underfloor heating.

How heat pumps work with underfloor heating
Underfloor heating runs at very low flow temperatures, making it a perfect partner for heat pumps. It provides consistent, even warmth across the whole floor space and works especially well in new builds, extensions, or major refurbishments where installation is less disruptive. Energy efficiency tends to be slightly higher than radiators.

Key considerations
Cost: Radiator upgrades are usually cheaper than installing underfloor heating in an existing home.
Disruption: Underfloor heating often requires lifting floors – easier in new builds or renovations.
Comfort: Radiators heat the air, while underfloor provides radiant heat that feels cosier and more even.
Space: Radiators take up wall space, while underfloor is invisible and frees up design options.

Which one should you choose?
Stick with radiators if you’re retrofitting into an older home or want minimal disruption. Go underfloor if you’re building new, renovating, or want maximum efficiency and comfort. In some homes, a mix of both can work – underfloor downstairs, radiators upstairs.

Conclusion
Both radiators and underfloor heating can work efficiently with a heat pump – the right choice depends on your home, budget, and lifestyle. At Warmaway, we tailor every installation to your property to ensure you get the best performance and comfort.

→ Ready to explore heat pumps? Book a free consultation today.