Monday, March 24, 2008

Electric Heating Systems For Apartments And Consumers

Over the last 10 years there has been a significant increase in the popularity of apartment living. Developments containing one and two bedroom apartments are modern, ideally located close to amenities and particularly attractive to young, urban professionals. New build apartments often contain interesting (and sometimes unusual) layouts, creating design problems, but also opportunities. A modern development therefore requires a modern heating solution to suit. Traditional heating methods are neither suitable nor practical for apartment dwellings, and so this article deals with an emerging heating solution - electric underfloor heating.

Although there are two major types of underfloor heating (electric and warm water), the water heating system is not particularly suitable in apartments due to the constraints of multiple occupancy. These systems also require an extension to the existing plumbing system and can be complicated to install in new build developments. In addition, water systems are very expensive (as much as 3 times the price of the electrical version). On the other hand, electric underfloor heating requires no plumbing whatsoever and is the perfect solution for apartments. DIY enthusiasts can easily install it throughout an entire apartment block or even in a single apartment. The only requirement is access to the mains electricity supply.

But we must not forget the purpose of new build apartments. Whilst providing a practical and secure dwelling, they are also a lifestyle choice. As such, any accessories, including the heating system, must be modern and usable. Modern apartment layouts, whilst practical, also have a tendency to suffer from a lack of space. This lack of space quickly renders other heating solutions ineffective, since freestanding heaters, fireplaces and radiators tend to radiate too much heat, making rooms stuffy and uncomfortable. Equally, heating systems of this nature can clutter the floor of apartments and restrict the amount of floor space available. Therefore, a heating system that is fit for purpose must also combine style with functionality. And since electric underfloor heating is situated beneath the floor, it maximizes the space in apartments and allows people to design interesting and creative interior layouts.

The rise in popularity of modern apartments has also seen an upsurge in the use of laminate flooring. Television programs dedicated to DIY, interior design and property have also contributed to this trend. Thankfully, electric underfloor heating can be used beneath a number of different floors, including stone, ceramic and laminate. This versatility and support for laminate flooring has made underfloor heating the system of choice for new and also renovated apartments.

As a consequence of their popularity, apartments are regularly sold on the property market. It is not uncommon for investors to purchase apartments with the sole intention of selling them on and making a mark-up on the price. However, whatever the reason for selling, one thing is for sure: electric underfloor heating will likely help you to achieve your asking price. Trendy and modern fittings such as underfloor heating are not only impressive in real-life; they’re impressive on paper, too!

Being both practical and aesthetically pleasing, electric underfloor heating is the heating system of choice for new and renovation apartments. The small and attractive controller, which can be mounted on any wall, allows users to control the temperature within the apartment at the touch of a button. And with a wide range of mats, cables and controllers available for purchase online, all the necessary equipment you require is both accessible and affordable.