The right underfloor heating thermostat directly affects both comfort and energy consumption. In this article, we explain the different types of underfloor heating thermostats, when to choose a smart WiFi thermostat, and what features to pay attention to. We also highlight the most common installation and selection mistakes and share tips on how to achieve maximum energy savings and ease of use.
Underfloor heating is a comfortable and energy-efficient way to heat your home – but only if it is controlled by the right thermostat. A thermostat is often considered just a "switch" that maintains the temperature, but in reality, the thermostat is exactly what determines how economically and stably the heating system operates.
In this article, we explain in simple terms what thermostats exist, what to consider, and how to choose the best solution for your needs.
1. What is the difference between underfloor heating thermostats?
Not all thermostats can be used with underfloor heating.
Underfloor heating requires a thermostat that also has a floor sensor – this measures the temperature directly from the floor, not just the air. Of course, room temperature can be regulated using only the thermostat's air sensor, but a floor sensor is essential for floors with parquet or wooden coverings, where manufacturers often recommend limiting the temperature under the floor covering to around +28°C.
Furthermore, the cooperation of a floor and air sensor in thermostats with adaptive learning ensures the most accurate timing, meaning it guarantees the right room or floor temperature by your desired time. For example, in our Nordic climate, we want a comfortably warm floor in the bathroom even during the summer months, and achieving this using only an air sensor would be difficult, if not impossible.
The main types of thermostats are:
Manual dial thermostat: A simple version with a rotary knob that maintains a constant temperature. Suitable for smaller rooms where you want steady heat around the clock.
Digital programmable thermostat: Allows you to set different temperatures based on the time of day. For example, you can set the bathroom to be warm in the morning and evening, but reduce the heating during the day to lower the temperature.
WiFi and smart thermostat: Connects to the internet and lets you control the temperature directly from your phone screen, even when you are away from home. The most convenient and economical choice – especially today, when the price of electricity changes every hour.
2. Why choose a WiFi thermostat?
A smart temperature controller does not just mean a modern design – it also provides real savings.
Remote control via app: Change the temperature conveniently from your phone – for example, when returning from a trip and you want your home to be warm before you arrive. Many models (like the Heatline HL-44 or Etherma WiFi thermostat) also allow you to monitor energy consumption.
Automatic exchange price tracking: Some newer thermostats (like the Etherma WiFi thermostat) can heat during cheap electricity hours, reducing costs without sacrificing comfort.
Zone or room-based control: If you have underfloor heating in multiple rooms, a smart thermostat allows you to regulate each zone separately – 23°C in the living room, 20°C in the bedroom, 25°C in the bathroom, etc.
Adaptive learning and energy reports: A smart thermostat with an adaptive learning feature analyzes how quickly your floor heats up and cools down, and over time learns to heat more accurately.
3. How to choose the right model?
When choosing a thermostat, it is worth paying attention to three simple things:
Heating cable or heater power: Most WiFi thermostats can handle up to 16 A (about 3600 W). If the heating system is larger, you will need to use a relay or contactor.
Sensor type: Check that a floor sensor is included in the package, especially for bathrooms or parquet floors.
Control method: Consider whether you want to do everything from an app or prefer manual wall control. If there are several people at home, a thermostat that has both physical buttons/dials and an app is highly practical.
4. Common mistakes when choosing or installing a thermostat
Installing the thermostat too low or in direct sunlight: Installing it almost against the floor or on a wall exposed to direct sunlight makes the thermostat inconvenient to set and distorts the air temperature reading. Air temperature is usually measured at a height of about 1 to 1.3 meters.
Incorrect floor sensor installation: It must be placed in a protective conduit, not directly embedded in the concrete, and should not be placed immediately next to a wall where the temperature reading might not be accurate. Additionally, you must ensure the floor sensor does not end up under a laundry basket, washing machine, or cabinet in the future, where its readings would obviously be compromised.
Choosing a thermostat without a floor sensor: A thermostat without a floor sensor is suitable for radiators, not underfloor heating. However, most modern thermostats can be configured to work according to our needs—whether using just the air sensor, just the floor sensor, or both in cooperation.
Leaving a WiFi thermostat disconnected: The thermostat is not connected to the network and left unconfigured, which completely defeats the purpose and advantage of smart features.
5. Why invest in a better thermostat?
A good smart thermostat helps reduce energy consumption by up to 20–30% by keeping the temperature stable and using heating only when you actually need warmth. If the underfloor heating thermostat can also track electricity exchange prices or has smart timing functions, the savings can be even greater.
📞 Need help choosing? If you are looking for a new thermostat but don't know whether a simple digital thermostat or a smart WiFi model suits you better, ask the Heatline team directly for advice. We will help you choose a solution that perfectly fits your home, heater power, and budget.