Electric underfloor heating
The bathroom renovation upgrade people are most glad they did — and the one they can't add afterwards.
How it works, and when to decide
Electric underfloor heating is a low-output heating mat or cable laid under the floor covering, usually in tile adhesive, controlled by a thermostat with a floor sensor. It warms the floor surface rather than the air, which is why a bathroom with it feels dramatically better than one with a heat lamp doing its best from the ceiling.
The critical thing is timing. The mat goes under the tiles. That means the decision has to be made before the tiler starts, and it cannot be added afterwards without lifting the floor. Bathroom renovations move fast, and this is the item most often realised too late.
It needs a dedicated circuit and a thermostat position — both trivial while walls are open, both awkward afterwards. If you are renovating a bathroom this year and even slightly curious about underfloor heating, get the circuit and conduit in now, even if you don't fit the mat. It costs very little at rough-in stage and it keeps the option open.
What underfloor heating costs
Sydney, 2026. Priced by area — the electrical work is the same regardless of room size.
| The job | Price |
|---|---|
| Heating mat supplied and installedPer square metre of heated area | $120 – $250 / m² |
| Typical bathroom, 4–6 m² heatedMat, thermostat and circuit, excluding tiling | $900 – $2,000 |
| Dedicated circuit and thermostatWhere the mat is supplied by your tiler or builder | $400 – $850 |
| Conduit and circuit at rough-in onlyKeeps the option open if you're undecided. Cheap insurance | $250 – $500 |
| Larger living areaCost per m² drops with area | ask |
These are indicative market ranges for Sydney in 2026, not a quote. What you pay depends on your switchboard, access and what we find. We confirm a fixed price before starting, and it doesn't move.
Underfloor heating questions
Can underfloor heating be added to an existing bathroom?
Not without lifting the floor, because the mat sits under the tiles. This is why it has to be decided before the tiler starts. If you're even considering it, get the circuit and conduit in at rough-in — it's inexpensive and it keeps the option alive.
How much does it cost to run?
Less than people fear, because it's typically on a timer for a few hours around morning and evening rather than running continuously, and a bathroom is a small area. The thermostat is what makes it economical — leave it running all day and it won't be.
Does it need its own circuit?
Yes, a dedicated circuit with RCD protection, and a thermostat position on the wall. Both are simple during a renovation.
Can it go under any floor covering?
It's best under tile and stone, which conduct heat well and tolerate the temperature. Timber and vinyl have manufacturer limits on floor temperature — check before committing, because exceeding them will damage the floor.
How long does it take to warm up?
Typically 20–40 minutes depending on the floor build-up, which is why a timer matters more than a thermostat you adjust by hand. Set it to be warm when you get up.
Is it worth it in a Sydney climate?
In a bathroom, most people say yes — a tiled floor is cold underfoot for a good chunk of the year regardless of air temperature. For whole-house heating in Sydney it's a harder case to make.
What customers say
Jason solved a really complex problem for our house with excellent professionalism and workmanship. Highly recommend, would def work with him again. On time delivery and within budget.
Fantastic service! Friendly, efficient and well priced. Highly recommend. Thank you for swiftly fixing our switches.
Jason was great! One call and less than an hour later, he was here to save the day. Five stars for the prompt and reliable service.
These are Google reviews for our team at Cync Electrical & Automation — the licensed contractor behind Hills Electrician. 5.0 from 20 reviews. — see the profile
Renovating a bathroom?
Talk to us before the tiler starts — after is too late. Call 0422 253 379.
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