Coldbuster underfloor heating kits are supplied as a complete package complementing the sale of ceramic tiles, carpet, vinyl, electrical appliances, home furnishings and other renovating supplies. Coldbuster floor heating provides a range of initiatives with benefits to retail partners. Maximise your per-customer sales Coldbuster floor heating stockists and retailers businesses benefit by maximising per-customer sales with […]
Safe, Invisible, Silent Heating No visible units to see or touch. Great for not impacting on room design. No maintenance. Child safe and pet-friendly. Requires lower temperature outputs. The efficiency of underfloor heating means that you do not need the same temperature outputs as conventional heating systems. Floor heating produces rising, radiant heat – meaning […]
Underfloor heating output can be referenced in two ways. The first relates to the value of watts per square metre of a heater, as in the power output per unit area of the heater. The other value also refers to watts per square metre, but this time in relation to the area of the room […]
Any object, whether it be a person, furniture or even the walls of the room, are heated up in 3 different ways. Here follows a very basic explanation. Convective heat (i.e. ducted air or reverse cycle aircon) is where air is warmed up and physically blown throughout the room. A person feels the warm air […]
”The Block” serves as a great inspiration for DIY home renovation. Now in its eighth season, Australia’s favourite renovation reality show, “The Block” is continuing to inspire homeowners to keep their dwelling in perfect shape the easy, economical way. In its latest episode entitled “Make a Man-cave Like Scotty’s”, viewers were able to witness how […]
Recently, Australian Living talked with several architects, tradesmen and designers regarding their views on sustainability, seven of which gave the most interesting insights, adding much fuel for further discussion. Many architects agree that the growth of sustainability as a practice can be slow because of the continued use of less sustainable materials, which are easier […]
Canterbury Council Will Become Energy Efficient, Says Mayor Three Canterbury Council facilities are to receive energy-efficient upgrades, benefiting not only the environment but also the ratepayers. The upgrade is part of the Community Energy Efficient Program spearheaded by the federal government. The council received $159,887 from the federal government’s Community Energy Efficient Program in order […]
Why use floor heating today. Floor heating for many can be associated with words like posh, European and expensive. But a quick google search for the term reveals no less than 10 floor heating companies across Australia! Why has floor heating become so popular? There could be a number of explanations. First of all Australians […]
How hot can floor heating make timber laminate products? Improved sustainability value makes bamboo floating floors increasingly more popular than solid timber boards. Resilient laminates, like the new Schneid Microlite composite floating floors, also enjoy increased popularity in young families homes due to the high resilience factor. They are both dense materials (Bamboo has a […]
Bathroom Mirror Demisters De-mystifying mirror demisters! Bathroom mirror demisters are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in line with the new trend of frameless, walk-in showers with a single glass panel as a screen. Previously shower cubicle screens collected most of the steam, but with the new open plan trend, the steam tends to condense everywhere, including on […]
Key Factors Affecting the Running Costs of Electric Floor Heating from Coldbuster
There are many factors and assumptions that may influence the costs of running electric floor heating.
Please note that the factors and the assumptions that underpin this Running Cost Calculator mean that results should only be used as a rough guide, as conditions (some of which are listed below) can vary greatly.
The efficiency and cost of the electricity used for heating directly impact running costs. More efficient energy sources and favourable electricity tariffs reduce overall expenses. Electricity prices vary by provider and plan. Choosing an energy-efficient tariff and monitoring peak and off-peak rates can help minimise heating costs.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your energy source is cost-effective and the electricity tariff is optimised for heating needs.
The total time the heating system is operational impacts energy consumption. Running the system only when necessary and using programmable thermostats to create heating schedules can optimise usage.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your heating is running only when necessary and optimised accordingly.
A duty cycle for electric underfloor heating represents the percentage of time the system is actively heating versus its total operational time. After the floor reaches its set temperature, the system cycles on and off to maintain it. The calculator factors this in and assumes a 50% duty cycle.
The temperature set on the thermostat directly affects energy usage. Lowering the thermostat temperature by just a few degrees can significantly reduce running costs without compromising comfort. Programmable and smart thermostats can optimise heating schedules, reducing energy use during non-peak times and enhancing overall efficiency. Setting the thermostat to an optimal temperature (e.g., 20-22°C) during occupied times and lowering it (or even better turning it off) when not in use can significantly affect running costs.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that you are using one of Coldbuster’s smart programmable thermostats to manage heating schedules effectively and that the settings are optimised for both comfort and efficiency.
Proper insulation reduces heat loss, making the heating system more efficient. Effective insulation in your floors, walls and roofs will help maintain the desired temperature with less energy consumption. Better insulation helps retain heat within the room, minimising the energy required to maintain comfort.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your building has high-quality insulation materials installed in the walls, roof, and floor.
The type of floor substrate affects heat retention and energy efficiency. Concrete floors, for example, retain heat longer, while timber floors may require more energy to maintain warmth.
The assumption is that your floor substrate is conducive to efficient heating, with thermal insulation boards used where necessary to enhance heat retention.
Different floor coverings have varying thermal properties. Materials like tile and stone conduct heat efficiently, while carpets and wood may require higher energy to achieve the same comfort level.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your flooring material is chosen with consideration of its thermal conductivity and compatibility with the heating system.
Draughts from poorly sealed windows and doors, as well as other gaps, can lead to heat loss and increased energy consumption. The type and quality of windows and doors significantly impact heat loss and gain. Double-glazing and well-sealed frames reduce draughts and improve thermal efficiency.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your windows, doors, and other potential gaps are well-sealed to prevent drafts and heat loss.
The overall energy efficiency of a building, including factors like construction quality, age, design and energy ratings, all affect its thermal efficiency and hence impacts heating costs. Older buildings may have more heat loss compared to newer, energy-efficient constructions.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your building is relatively modern or has been updated to meet contemporary energy efficiency standards.
The local climate influences heating needs. Colder outdoor temperatures increase the demand for indoor heating. Regions with milder winters require less heating and would therefore typically have lower running costs compared to areas with harsh winter and cold conditions.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is based on average climatic conditions specific to the region in Australia where you are located and where the system is installed.
The efficiency of the underfloor heating system itself plays a crucial role. The efficiency determines how effectively it converts electrical energy into heat. Modern systems with advanced controls and high efficiency like Coldbuster use less energy to achieve the desired warmth.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your heating system is running efficiently at all times.
The ability to control heating in different zones or rooms independently allows for more precise energy use, heating only the areas that need it.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your heating system is designed with zoning capabilities for customised temperature control.
The design of the heating system, including the layout, spacing, and type of heating elements, affects heat distribution and overall efficiency. The size of the room in relation to the heater’s capacity is crucial. An appropriately sized heater ensures efficient heating without overworking the system.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your heating system is designed and installed by experienced Coldbuster installation professionals or other suitably qualified professionals to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.
Consistent and predictable usage patterns help in planning and optimising energy consumption. Irregular or excessive use can lead to higher costs.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your usage patterns are regular and not excessive.
Higher ceilings result in larger volumes of air to heat, which can increase energy consumption. Rooms with standard ceiling heights are more energy efficient.
The assumption in this running cost estimate model is that your ceiling heights are standard (2.4 to 2.7 meters) to maintain optimal energy efficiency and minimize excess energy use.