PHAM NEWS | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026 Underfl oorHeating 37


Every room can benefi t from UFH


Underfl oor heating is rapidly moving into the mainstream, driven by effi ciency demands and low-carbon regulation. For installers, it off ers a major opportunity to deliver cleaner, smarter, future-proof heating, says Ben Perris at Wavin.


future-proof solutions, underfl oor heating (UFH) is moving fi rmly into the mainstream. For installers, this shift represents a major opportunity: to deliver high- performance, energy-effi cient heating that’s simpler to install, reliable to maintain, and compatible with modern low- carbon systems.


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Modern heating systems must now do more with less - less energy, less carbon and less space. That’s where low-profi le UFH systems come in. It’s no longer enough to think of UFH as a ‘luxury add-on’; it’s becoming the logical choice for both new-build and retrofi t applications.


For installers, this evolution opens the door to new opportunities. It’s a chance to guide homeowners confi dently, recommending UFH as a practical, future-proof and cost- eff ective heating solution.


Compelling performance For installers, UFH off ers clear, practical advantages that go beyond end-user comfort. With pipework integrated beneath the fl oor, the system creates a streamlined setup with fewer visible components, reducing time spent on mounting, surface prep, and follow-up maintenance – helping jobs run more effi ciently from start to fi nish. The low-profi le design also simplifi es planning and layout considerations, particularly in open-plan areas or rooms with built-in storage, since installers don’t need to work around bulky wall- mounted units.


Beyond installation, UFH


benefi ts from turning the surface area of the fl oor into a heat source. This creates even heat distribution across the entire room, eliminating cold spots and creating a more stable and consistent indoor climate – ideal for today’s open-plan layouts where traditional


Ben Perris Sales director for indoor climate solutions at Wavin, Underfl oor Heating Group


systems can struggle to heat evenly.


This combination of comfort and efficiency makes UFH an easy


recommendation for installers


 Lightweight low-profi le UFH systems allow installers to work effi ciently, even within the constraints of older homes


Unlike traditional radiators, which heat a single area, UFH can also be split into zones, allowing each room or area to maintain its own temperature. Systems like Wavin’s Sentio make zoning eff ortless, with simple installation, logical confi guration, and app-based controls, so installers can be confi dent homeowners can manage heating room by room – even remotely.


Cost-eff ective


One of the biggest advantages of UFH lies in how effi ciently it uses energy. Operating at low temperatures of around 35-45°C – compared with the 60-75°C needed to heat traditional radiators – UFH makes the most of every unit of heat produced.


When paired with a low- carbon heating solution such as heat pumps, a study conducted by Wavin found that homes can improve energy effi ciency by reducing energy consumption from 10 to 20% – meaning homeowners can cut their bills signifi cantly while reducing their carbon footprint. However, even when paired with traditional boiler systems, the even, radiant warmth of UFH allows thermostats to be set a few degrees lower without sacrifi cing comfort – a small change that can deliver noticeable savings over time. For installers, this


combination of comfort and effi ciency makes UFH an easy recommendation, delivering a system that meets regulatory standards and enhances homeowner satisfaction.


Retrofi t-friendly Traditionally, fi tting UFH in existing properties has been seen as challenging or potentially disruptive. Retrofi tting often means working within fi xed fl oor heights and existing fi nishes, often limiting space for insulation or pipework. These diffi culties are even greater in upstairs rooms, where installers must account for fl oor load, build-up height and access restrictions.


Today however,


manufacturers are doing more than ever to help make installation simpler, faster and less invasive. Advances in system design have created


s new regulations drive down carbon emissions and homeowners demand effi cient,


lightweight, low-profi le options that allow installers to work effi ciently, even within the constraints of older homes. Wavin’s Warm Deck is one such innovation. It’s engineered to deliver all the comfort and effi ciency benefi ts of UFH without the need for any major structural work. Its lightweight design and straightforward installation process help installers save valuable time on site, simplify project planning and reduce the overall complexity often associated with retrofi t applications. To support the trade even further, manufacturers are even launching their own education programmes to provide installers with access to expert guidance, bespoke training, and priority technical support. Wavin Installer Network (WIN) is a free-to join initiative that provides practical and technical support for underfl oor heating, ventilation, and heat recovery installers, helping them design, specify, and fi t UFH systems correctly the fi rst time. Members can also connect with homeowners and developers seeking trusted professionals, off ering business growth alongside technical expertise.


Practical choice


UFH is now no longer just a premium extra – it’s a practical, effi cient and fl exible heating solution. In new builds, it pairs perfectly with heat pumps, while in existing homes it off ers a modular way to upgrade energy effi ciency and comfort, with benefi ts for both space and running costs apparent from the outset.


For installers, confi dently recommending UFH positions you as a trusted expert, delivering energy-effi cient, future-proof solutions that benefi t both homeowners and your business. With additional support from manufacturers, with expert guidance on materials and design, fi tting UFH has never been more rewarding. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/126/45


CUT TO THE CHASE


 Low-profile UFH operates efficiently at 35-45°C, ideal for low-carbon systems


 Integrated pipework reduces installation time, components, and long-term maintenance demands


 Retrofi t-friendly UFH systems simplify projects with minimal structural disruption


Smart zoning controls enable precise room-by-room temperature management and energy optimisation


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