Hybrid Heating – A Modern Solution for Comfort and Savings

What is hybrid heating?

A hybrid heating system is based on the combination of an air-to-air heat pump air conditioner and electric underfloor heating. In this solution, the air conditioner, which operates efficiently down to about -7°C, is responsible for the basic heating of the building. However, when the outside temperature drops below this level, which reduces the efficiency of the heat pump, the electric underfloor heating kicks in to supplement the heat demand.

Inertia of the pump

One of the greatest advantages of a hybrid heating and cooling system is its flexibility. It can be controlled according to the current needs and preferences of the user. For example, on cooler summer days or early autumn when there is no need to heat the entire house, you can turn on the electric underfloor heating only in selected rooms, such as the bathroom, to enhance comfort.

The hybrid system consists of two independent circuits: electric underfloor heating, which provides warmth over a large area, and an air conditioning system with a heat pump that distributes air to all rooms. This allows for precise temperature control in each room individually. The system is complemented by mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, which ensures a constant exchange of air – at least one exchange per hour. It is essential that the ventilation and air conditioning systems are independent of each other.

In such installations, heating mats and heating films are most commonly used, which are placed directly under the floor finish, ensuring quick operation of the system when the heat pump stops working efficiently. The system is characterized by low thermal inertia, meaning it does not require significant intervention in the event of sudden cooling of the rooms.

The hybrid heating system provides thermal comfort not only in winter but also during hot summer days. Research results indicate that for the system to operate most efficiently, it should work continuously. Turning the system on and off leads to higher energy consumption because returning to a comfortable temperature requires significant energy inputs – both for heating and cooling the rooms.

It is also worth noting that hybrid heating is practically maintenance-free. It operates autonomously and does not require frequent inspections or service interventions.

Advantages of Combining Air Conditioning and Underfloor Heating

Operational Flexibility

The combination of air conditioning and electric underfloor heating allows for adjusting the heating method to external conditions and user preferences. Air conditioning with heating function works particularly well when external temperatures are not too low, while on cooler days, electric underfloor heating provides constant, pleasant thermal comfort. Both systems work excellently together – air conditioning quickly raises the temperature in the room, while the electric underfloor heating maintains the set temperature for a longer period. This solution is effective, for example, in the bedroom, where we can warm it up with the air conditioner before going to bed and then maintain the warmth with the underfloor heating, achieving a pleasant effect of warm floors in the morning. Additionally, electric underfloor heating does not stir up dust and mites, making it healthier, especially for those sensitive to such air pollutants.

Energy Efficiency

By combining both systems, better energy management is possible. Using both systems together allows for reduced operating costs, as each operates under the most efficient conditions. It is also worth mentioning that with independent control, we only heat the rooms that we actually want to. We can set the temperature individually for each room according to our needs and the functions that the given interior is to fulfill. Thus, we do not waste energy on unnecessary heating of unused space.

Thermal Comfort in Every Situation

On cooler days, electric underfloor heating provides comfortable, even heat distribution in the rooms, which is especially pleasant when walking barefoot. Air conditioning, on the other hand, can quickly raise the air temperature in the rooms without consuming a large amount of energy.
Outside the heating season, underfloor heating requires no maintenance, and air conditioning will fulfill its role on hot summer days.

Quick Response and Convenience

The hybrid system allows for quick temperature adjustments based on needs. Air conditioning can instantly warm the air, while underfloor heating maintains the room at a comfortable level. Additionally, thanks to modern solutions, both systems can be controlled remotely via smart home applications, providing user convenience. It is worth noting that electric underfloor heating has much lower thermal inertia compared to its water counterpart. This means it heats up faster and releases heat to the room more quickly. Another advantage is the ability to create an advanced control scheme based on smart home devices, allowing for heating control from anywhere in the world via a phone. The use of presence sensors will allow for raising the temperature only in rooms where it is needed. An advantage of both heating solutions is also their quiet operation, and in the case of underfloor heating – silent operation. In the case of water underfloor heating powered by an air/water heat pump, the full heating of the floor and reaching a comfortable temperature can take up to 24 hours at the beginning of the heating season, depending on initial conditions and system properties.

Space Saving and Aesthetics

Electric underfloor heating is invisible as it is located under the floor. This eliminates the need for traditional radiators. Moreover, you can also forget about pipes and heat distribution systems characteristic of conventional heating systems. This gives greater freedom in interior design and allows saving space that would normally be occupied by a boiler room. Air conditioning also takes up little space, and modern models are designed with aesthetics in mind.

When is it Worth Investing in Hybrid Heating?

Hybrid heating with air conditioning and electric underfloor heating is the ideal solution for those who:

• are looking for a comfortable and modern heating system that can be adjusted to changing weather conditions;
• value energy efficiency and want to minimize heating costs;
• expect quick heating of rooms and even, constant warmth on cold days;
• plan to install a system that is aesthetic and does not take up additional space in the home.

Summary

Hybrid heating combining air conditioning with electric underfloor heating is a modern solution that combines convenience, savings, and efficiency. By integrating two technologies, users can enjoy warmth on their terms – saving energy, enjoying thermal comfort, and taking care of the aesthetics of their interiors. This solution seems optimal and is increasingly being adopted by investors.

Of course, it is very important to accurately define the parameters of the heating system, so it is worth using the services of experts who will create a project considering all conditions affecting the system's efficiency. This will allow for additional cost minimization and acceleration of work. There is also no risk of oversizing the entire system, generating additional unnecessary expenses. A free project and quote for electric heating can be obtained by contacting the experts at TERMOFOL – we warmly invite you!