PHAM NEWS | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026 38 Underfl oorHeating


What you need to get it right the fi rst time


While system design is always the foundation of a high-performing underfl oor heating setup, the chosen components are just as crucial. Here, Ambiente’s Greg Cooper explains the important parts of the system and shares practical tips on selecting the right fi ttings to simplify every installation.


P


ipes are a fundamental component of any hydronic underfl oor heating system, yet not all materials are


created equal. For professional installers looking for performance, reliability and sustainability, high-quality PE-RT (polyethylene of raised temperature resistance) pipe stands out as the top choice. One key advantage of PE-RT


is its thermal behaviour, specifi cally manufactured to deliver heat swiftly and evenly into the screed or fl oor structure. This improves system responsiveness and, therefore, enhances overall comfort. In contrast, some alternative materials retain heat in the pipe wall, causing delays in heat transfer and aff ecting overall system performance. Comprising fi ve bonded layers,


PE-RT pipe delivers on every front thanks to its superior fl exibility, which makes it easy to handle and install on-site, even in challenging layouts. It also performs exceptionally under high temperatures and pressures, resists frost damage and off ers impressive impact strength. It also features an integrated EVOH oxygen barrier layer, preventing oxygen ingress into the system and reducing the risk of corrosion to metallic components. Depending on the project, innovative PE-RT underfl oor


Greg Cooper Product development director at Ambiente


heating pipes, such as Ambiente’s Traffi Pipe, which has a built-in visual quality management system, can be used. The distinctive traffi c light-style colour-coded construction informs installers that the pipework is in good condition before the installation progresses, or, crucially, alerts them if pipework has become defective during the supply and installation process. Considering how invasive and expensive it is to investigate and remedy defective pipework when the fi nal fl oor fi nish is in place, Traffi Pipe is a wise choice.


These self- learning actuators are a game changer for systems with unknown pipe layouts or when cold spots appear in certain floor areas


AI-powered actuators Balancing underfl oor heating systems, especially older ones or those with multiple zones, can be one of the more time- consuming tasks that installers face. But thanks to advances in smart technology, a new generation of self-balancing actuator heads is making that job signifi cantly easier. One innovative option is the


AI-powered actuator, designed to intelligently manage fl ow across diff erent heating loops. Rather than relying on fi xed preset values or guesswork, these clever devices learn the heating behaviour of each zone by continuously monitoring the fl ow and return temperatures. In addition, they also take into account how these levels change over time. The result


is the system delivering just the right amount of heat, in the right place, precisely when needed. These self-learning actuators


are a game changer for systems with unknown pipe layouts or when cold spots appear in certain fl oor areas. Sometimes, cold zones can be traced back to issues that intelligent balancing can fi x, such as uneven distribution or poor fl ow regulation. But where a retrofi t is too invasive and impractical, a self-balancing actuator can still go a long way toward optimising performance and reducing discomfort. For legacy systems where loop lengths aren’t documented, or in


together from mixed suppliers, leading to compatibility issues, installation delays, and costly call-backs. Choosing a single, expert supplier off ers clear advantages for installers and consumers alike.


Perfect harmony Installations become more reliable when all components, from pipes and manifolds to compounds and controls, are designed and tested to work harmoniously. Using matched components also simplifi es compliance and reduces the chance of system ineffi ciencies. From high-performance PE-RT pipework with oxygen barriers


Traffi Pipe has a built-in visual quality management system


homes where sluggish response times are causing frustration, AI-driven actuators fi tted to the manifold can dynamically balance each circuit. Using built-in sensors, they adjust fl ow rates automatically, removing the need for manual calibration or guesswork. One solution is Ambiente’s


AmbiEgo actuator (pictured top right), which combines AI, fl ow sensors and precise control to deliver reliable, even heating for almost every underfl oor heating system. For installers and service engineers dealing with callouts or system upgrades, it’s a plug-and-play fi x for balancing issues and is compatible with nearly all UFH systems.


Seamless supply When it comes to UFH, performance is only as reliable as the sum of its parts. Yet too often, systems are cobbled


to smart actuator heads that self-balance heating zones, an integrated approach minimises troubleshooting and enhances energy effi ciency. It also reduces the number of variables during fault fi nding or servicing. Working with a single supplier also provides a consistent point of contact for technical support or warranty queries.


All in one In short, a complete system from one trusted supplier improves system reliability and effi ciency and makes everything easier, from ordering the system to customer handover. For professionals looking to streamline UFH installs without compromising performance, working with a specialist supplier, such as Ambiente, ensures fewer surprises and long- term benefi ts for the end user. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/126/46


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44