Underfloor Heating in Dublin Apartments: Is It Worth It?
You have undoubtedly thought, “There must be a better way,” if you have ever gotten out of bed on a chilly Dublin morning and felt a chill go through your feet. This is where underfloor heating comes in for many RisingDublin flat owners, it’s turning out to be a surprisingly useful and even opulent upgrade.
Traditional radiators frequently fail in Ireland’s temperate but humid climate, resulting in draughty corners, uneven warmth, and cold spots. However, underfloor heating offers a distinct experience: warmth that permeates every square inch of your space as it rises softly from the floor. Whether you’re building a new green energy home or remodelling an existing one, Green Energy Homes offers sophisticated systems that are not only affordable and safe, but also simple to install.
The true charm of a house in Dublin:
Effective, Even Heating: Despite running at a lower temperature than radiators, the system consistently warms the entire floor, eliminating cold spots and chilly toes.
Space Saving & Sleek: Your living area looks cleaner and gives you more furniture arrangement options because there are no large radiators clogging your walls. Low Carbon Home Systems Natural Green Energy.
Eco-Friendly Potential: Underfloor heating can lower energy consumption and carbon impact when combined with greener energy sources, which is a desirable perk for Dubliners who care about the environment.
Real-world Dublin example: Picture opening the curtains over Merrion Square and stepping barefoot onto a warm floor with no icy tiles, just subtly warm, effective, and elegant warmth.
Why Underfloor Heating Works Well in Dublin
Dublin’s climate is famously well, a bit of everything.
We don’t get extreme Scandinavian cold, but we do get plenty of damp, chilly days where floors can feel icy, especially in older apartment blocks with tiled kitchens or laminate floors.
Unlike radiators that heat the air unevenly (and often leave cold spots), underfloor heating warms the room from the ground up. This means:
- Even, gentle heat throughout the space
- No bulky radiators taking up valuable wall space
- Lower running temperatures perfect for our milder winters
Two Main Types for Dublin Apartments
If you live in a flat in Ranelagh, Rathmines, or the Docklands, you’ve generally got two main options:
- Electric Underfloor Heating
- Ideal for retrofitting in smaller areas like bathrooms or kitchens
- Thin mats fit under tiles, laminate, or engineered wood
- Quick to install minimal disruption.
- Water-Based (Hydronic) Underfloor Heating
- Best for new builds or major renovations
- Uses warm water circulated through pipes under the floor
- More energy-efficient long term, but requires more space and higher initial cost.
A Real Dublin Story: From Cold Feet to Cosy Evenings
Drumcondra’s Comfortable Kitchen Makeover
Sarah, who lives in a one-bedroom flat in Drumcondra, contacted us last winter regarding her tiled kitchen, which was freezing. The floor remained stubbornly cold even after the radiator was turned on and rugs were layered. At that point, we intervened with our sophisticated underfloor heating system in Dublin.
When renovating a kitchen, installation
We installed electric underfloor heating during her kitchen renovation, a Green Energy Homes product that is safe, affordable, and minimally intrusive. With its neat integration, the electric system provided stylish warmth without the need for large radiators.
A Game-Changer for Winter
The change happened instantly. As stated by Sarah herself For the first time this winter, I’m making tea without my slippers on. Additionally, I don’t need to turn up the heat because the entire kitchen feels warmer.
High Comfort, Low Operating Costs
The operating expenses are surprisingly low in spite of the cosy luxury. Sarah keeps her kitchen warm in the mornings and evenings for less than €0.40 per day. Perfect for cosy evenings or lazy Dublin breakfasts, that’s a small price for such a big comfort boost.
Why Dublin Homes Finds It Effective
Dublin’s cool, humid climate is ideal for our underfloor heating system. From sunrise to sunset, there are no cold spots or draughty corners because the heat is distributed evenly and gently from floor level. Its low-profile design also simplifies your décor and frees up wall space.
The Benefits for Dublin Apartment Living
- Space Saver: No radiators means more room for furniture (or simply a cleaner, more open look).
- Energy Efficient: Operates at lower temperatures, making it compatible with renewable heating systems like heat pumps.
- Low Maintenance: Once installed, it’s virtually hassle-free.
- Comfort: The luxury of warm floors is more than just a treat, it makes your whole space feel cosier.
What to Consider Before Installing
1. Floor Height
Underfloor systems can raise floor levels slightly. In apartments with tight thresholds (especially older Georgian conversions), this needs to be planned carefully.
2. Access and Permissions
If you’re renting in Dublin or part of a managed apartment block, you may need landlord or management company approval before installation.
3. Flooring Compatibility
Works brilliantly under tile, engineered wood, and certain laminates. Thick carpets are not so much they can block the heat.
4. Budget
Electric systems start from a few hundred euro for a small bathroom; hydronic systems cost more but save over time, especially when paired with Green Energy Homes heat pump installations.
A Rathmines Apartment Makeover
Before:
- Drafty living space
- Radiators taking up the only free wall
- Constant “cold feet” complaints in winter
After:
- Radiators removed — new reading nook by the window
- Even warmth throughout the room
- No cold spots, even near windows
- BER rating improved thanks to efficient, low-temperature heating
Why Green Energy Homes is the Go-To for Dublin Installations
As a Dublin-based team, we know our city’s homes — from slick Docklands apartments to cosy Southside conversions. We handle:
- Local building regs & permissions for apartment works
- Integration with renewable energy systems to future-proof your heating
- Tailored solutions that work within Dublin-sized spaces
We also help clients tap into SEAI grants where applicable — so you can enjoy comfort without overstretching the budget.
Ready for Warmer Winters in Dublin?
Underfloor heating isn’t just a luxury anymore — in Dublin’s climate, it’s a smart, space-saving, and energy-conscious choice for apartment living. Whether you’re upgrading a bathroom in Clontarf or fitting out an entire flat in Temple Bar, Green Energy Homes can help you find the perfect system.
Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation
visit greenenergyhomes.ie to explore your options
