FAQs
What is an Underfloor Heating Zone?
It's an area that you wish to control independently with a room thermostat. It can be one room or multiple rooms but most commonly one.
What is a water temperature control (WTC)?
As underfloor heating requires lower running temperatures than a traditional radiator system the WTC set regulates the water temperature directly from your heat source (ie. gas boiler) to the required level by the underfloor heating. Typically a screeded floor system requires an average water temperature of 40°c.
What room controls should I use?
This one is entirely down to user preference and budget. We can provide you with quotes from basic dial room thermostats all the way to Multi Zone Neo systems with Geo location feature allowing full control through Iphone or Android SmartPhone apps.
Can you mix radiator heating with underfloor heating?
Yes you can, it’s very likely that you would require either a diverting valve or a two port zone valve to isolate the two different systems. It’s also likely that the underfloor heating will require water temperature control so as to reduce the higher water temperature that is typically required for a radiator system.
What is a manifold?
A manifold is a central distribution point where the underfloor heating loops are connected to. It’s also used for control and isolation of the flow of water so that loops/zones can be independently controlled.
Where should I position my manifold?
Ideally in the most central point that gives the most economic distribution of pipework. However if it’s just a single zone then it is best to position it within that area or as close as possible.
Are there pipe joints under the floor?
No, none of the pipes should be joined under the floor. All our underfloor heating systems are designed with sufficient loop lengths to allow the pipe to loop around the area from the flow outlet of the manifold all the way back to the return port. As an average the maximum loop length within the system would be about 120m.
What happens if I damage the pipe?
Extra care should be taken to ensure your pipes are protected however should the worst happen there is an adaptor we can supply to join damaged pipes together. Any joints within the floor should be suitably protected from the screed and if possible they should be made accessible.
How Much Does Underfloor Heating Cost to Run?
Wet underfloor heating systems are typically 20 percent cheaper to run than a traditional radiator system powered by a Gas boiler.
What Floor Coverings Can I Have on Top of Underfloor Heating?
It’s possible to use any type of floor covering provided the thermal resistance does not exceed the British Standard BSEN1264. For a wooden floor or similar the thermal resistance should not exceed 0.15m²k/w. For carpets and underlay the combined tog value should not exceed a value of 2. Tiled floor finishes are well suited for use with underfloor heating as they have little if any thermal resistance.
Do I Need Floor Insulation?
Yes we always recommend insulating your floors wherever possible to improve efficiency of your heating system. Depending on the floor construction being used some of our boards like overboard, floating floor have insulation properties.
What thickness of floor insulation should I lay?
This should be sufficient to satisfy building regulations Part L. Typically 100mm of high density floor grade PUR board is deemed sufficient. Please check with building control prior to installing.