The UK’s Only Low Wattage Underfloor Heating Solution 

The DCM-PRO Heated Decoupling System for Low Wattage Projects is Warmup’s latest development in energy-efficient electric heating technology. In this expert guide, we’ll introduce you to the many benefits of this system and explore how it offers a more sustainable way to heat a property. You’ll learn more about: 

• How the low wattage DCM-PRO system is perfect for projects with reduced amperage 
• The compatibility of this system with solar power and batteries 
• The considerable energy-savings and cost-savings of the DCM-PRO Low Wattage Heating Cable 
• DCM-PRO’s ease of installation  

The DCM-PRO Low Wattage Heating Cable facilitates a flexible heat output of between 41.3 – 82.5W/m² 

DCM-PRO for standard wattage projects is a popular electric floor heating system for properties that use a typical amperage (amperage is the measurement of the electrical charge that a property can safely allow) but if you’re working on a project that has a reduced amperage, then a system with a lower wattage will be required. The DCM-PRO Low Wattage Heating Cable has been specifically designed for this kind of application. As a heating cable and membrane-based UFH system, it provides a bespoke heating output of between 41.3 – 82.5W/m², making it ideal for use in buildings or regions with lower electrical load supplies or an unpredictable energy infrastructure (such as the Channel Islands) whilst still offering energy-saving warmth and decoupling protection for tiled floors.  

Specifically designed for well insulated homes with low load supplies 

With its reduced electricity consumption, the DCM-PRO low wattage system should only be installed as a primary heating solution in well insulated homes where heat losses will be less or equal to approximately 50W/m². Installing good quality underfloor heating insulation with a new heating system is an important measure to take as it will enhance the efficiency of the heater; improving heat-up times and reducing the level of heat lost through the subfloor.  

Homes with reduced amperage from the grid also restrict the number of electrical devices that can be used simultaneously so using a standard wattage electric UFH system would leave little power for other electrical services when heating a property. So, installing a lower wattage system like the low watt DCM-PRO with a typical output of 55W/m² reduces power consumption from the grid, allowing the use of other appliances in a home whilst the floor heating system is in operation. This concurrently reduces peak demands on the grid, enabling it to decarbonize and therefore offering a more sustainable method of heating for the next generation of homes around the world. Discover more about the role underfloor heating will take in the future of housebuilding in our in-depth guide.   

Compatible with solar power: offering 100% efficient, self-generated electric heating  

Solar electricity is becoming an increasingly popular energy source for new-build homes and renovation projects alike – offering a clean, renewable energy-based alternative to high carbon-emitting sources such as gas boilers and coal-fired power stations. The ultra-low power needs of the DCM-PRO low wattage system make it perfect to use with solar panels which by design produce lower load supplies.  

Using the DCM-PRO Low Wattage Heating Cable with a solar PV system and accompanying batteries allows a property to be heated entirely by zero-carbon, self-generated electricity. This advanced technology will lower a building’s CO2 emissions and provide significant long-term cost-savings whilst also offering the opportunity to generate money if enough excess electricity is produced that can be sold back to the grid.  

If you’re interested in installing a complete solar-powered UFH system in an upcoming project, you can find out more in our in-depth guide. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for government initiatives which may help fund some of the costs of installation. 

Sustainable technology that reduces energy usage by up to 35% and offers big cost-savings

Radiant floor heating is a more energy-efficient way to heat a home and with this increased performance, the end-user can expect substantial savings on their energy bills. The low watt DCM-PRO’s 100% efficient electric heating can reduce energy usage by up to 35% compared to traditional radiator-based systems. 

All floor heating systems requires a dedicated thermostat to provide zoned heating control which will improve a property’s energy performance and allow for even greater cost-savings. A great controller to use with DCM-PRO for low wattage projects is Warmup’s 6iE WiFi Thermostat. Featuring the world’s first Smartphone touchscreen on a floor heating controller, the 6iE offers true ease of use and facilities automatic heat functionality, ensuring the space is heated at the right time, to the right temperature without the need to set up a heating schedule.  

You can get an instant quote for Warmup underfloor heating using our quick online tool. Simply enter some of the details of your project and we’ll let you know how much your chosen UFH system will cost to purchase. 

The low wattage DCM-PRO system allows for a wider choice of floor finish options 

Like the standard wattage system, the DCM-PRO for low wattage projects is particularly suitable for tiled floor finishes due to its decoupling attributes, which can prevent cracks from forming on the floor’s surface due to lateral subfloor movement. But, with its cooler operating temperatures, the low watt DCM-PRO is rated for increased floor finish resistances of up to 3.0 tog – allowing for an even wider selection of flooring options than standard wattage systems. 

DCM-PRO provides the fastest installation of a heated decoupling system and is available with two membrane option, offering a more flexible installation. The Peel-and-Stick membrane features a self-adhesive backing for 40% faster installation times than standard floor heating membranes whilst the fleece-backed membrane has been designed to use with traditional adhesives on damp or uneven subfloors. And, at only 5.5mm deep, it is perfect to install in rooms of all sizes with restricted ceiling heights. If you’re using DCM-PRO with floor tiles, it can be tiled directly onto or if you’re using this system with other floor coverings, it can be covered with a layer of self-levelling compound before the final floor finish is applied.