Does Underfloor Heating Cause Condensation?

There's nothing like stepping out of bed on a cold winter morning and feeling your toes sink into warm, toasty comfort. There’s just one question holding you back from investing in an underfloor heating system of your own: will heated floors mean constantly steamed-up windows?

The good news is that a properly installed and maintained underfloor heating system shouldn't contribute to condensation problems in your home. In fact, it might even help!

DMA Property Solutions are the South's leading experts in all things heating. Below, we’ll explore the science of condensation and why underfloor heating can be a great solution if you're worried about it.

What Causes Condensation?

First things first, let’s look at why condensation happens.

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air meets a cold surface. The moisture in the air can't hold itself as a gas anymore, so it turns into tiny water droplets that we see as condensation.

There are two main reasons why this happens:

  • Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. When warm air comes into contact with a cold surface, like a window in the winter, the air cools down rapidly. This forces the moisture out of the air, and we see it condense on the window.
  • Even if the air temperature isn't that different between the air and the surface, condensation can still happen if there's too much moisture in the air to begin with. This is why you might see condensation on the bathroom mirror after a hot shower.

Condensation is usually caused by activities that generate heat and moisture, such as cooking, showering, drying clothes indoors, or using a humidifier, but it can also occur with traditional heating systems (especially older or less efficient ones).

Why Doesn’t Underfloor Heating Cause Condensation?

Traditional radiators heat the air closest to them, creating warm pockets around the radiator and cooler zones elsewhere. This temperature difference can cause moisture in the air to condense on those cooler walls and windows, resulting in condensation.

Underfloor heating, on the other hand, heats the whole room from the ground up. Because the heat is more evenly distributed, there are fewer drastic temperature changes, which means less moisture condensation on your walls and windows.

How Can You Reduce the Risk of Condensation?

While underfloor heating by itself shouldn't cause condensation, good ventilation is still key. Without it, condensation can happen no matter what type of heating system you use.

Here are some steps to help reduce the risk of condensation:

  • Make sure furniture and curtains aren't obstructing vents, which can hinder proper airflow.
  • Open windows for short periods throughout the day, even in colder weather, to allow moist air to escape.
  • Check extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms are functioning properly and run them during and after activities that generate steam.
  • Cover pots and pans while cooking, and keep the bathroom door closed while showering. Open a window or turn on the extractor fan when cooking or showering to expel moist air.
  • Avoid drying laundry indoors, which adds moisture to the air. If you must, use a dehumidifier in the laundry room.
  • Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air, which can help prevent condensation if other efforts fail.

By combining an underfloor heating system with proper ventilation, you can enjoy a warm, cosy, and condensation-free home all winter long.

Warm Up Your Home With Energy-Efficient Underfloor Heating From DMA

Tired of cold floors and draughty rooms? DMA Property Solutions are here to help!

Thanks to our decades of experience, we can design and install high-performance, energy-efficient underfloor heating systems that keep your home cosy and condensation-free - all at the most competitive prices in the area. We also offer scheduled maintenance services and repairs to keep your toes toasty for years to come.

Our services cover Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, and the surrounding areas. If you’re ready to get started, get a quote online or call us on 01202 090010 today!

Google Logo G Icon
Google Rating
4.6
Based on +30 reviews

© 2025 - DMA Property Solutions

Website Design Bournemouth: b4b