PHAM NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2025 HeatingControls 25


Enhancing effi ciency in underfl oor heating


As underfl oor heating systems continue to gain traction in both new-build and retrofi t projects across the UK, there’s an increased focus on the controls used to manage them. Here, Chris Stammers from BEAMA explains why controls are essential for delivering high-performing, future-ready heating systems.


sustainable and cost-eff ective heating solutions is increasing. In tandem, homeowners are increasingly aware of modern heating systems’ benefi ts, so staying ahead of the curve with the latest heating technologies for new and retrofi t projects is now a necessity for installers. When paired with advanced


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controls, underfl oor heating (UFH) systems off er more than just comfort – they enhance overall system effi ciency and ensure compliance with ever- evolving building regulations. They also allow installers to tailor the system to customer needs, helping them to reduce energy wastage and optimise performance.


Good specifi cation The fi rst step in selecting the right controls is to consider the heat source, whether a heat pump or traditional boiler, and other heat emitters the UFH system will integrate with to ensure compatibility and effi cient overall control. The next consideration is


zoning, which is a regulatory requirement in all new builds and some renovation projects,


Chris Stammers Underfl oor heating portfolio manager for BEAMA


s energy costs continue to rise and with new regulations incoming, the demand for


but also essential to help occupants reduce energy wastage. Understanding the homeowner’s lifestyle and using this information to eff ectively ‘zone’ the home to provide complete control over each area to ensure no energy is wasted heating empty rooms, for example, zoning a home offi ce that can be kept cooler on non-working days. Zone-specifi c controls that


allow customised scheduling help homeowners manage their heating more effi ciently, ensuring comfort and energy savings without manually adjusting settings throughout the day.


Installers should guide their customers away from the on/off mindset and towards efficient temperature operation


Flexible solutions With the increasing number of smart technologies available in homes today, it’s easy for consumers to feel overwhelmed by the variety of apps, interfaces and user manuals. This is particularly true in retrofi t installations, where simplicity and ease of use become even more important. For these scenarios, opting for straightforward yet intelligent digital thermostats for each heating zone can make a big diff erence. In retrofi t projects with easy


access to suitable existing wiring, such as three-core and earth cabling, digital


thermostats can be integrated with minimal disruption. However, where installing new cables isn’t practical due to the disruption it would cause, wireless control systems provide a fl exible, hassle-free alternative. These options simplify underfl oor heating management and some can even connect with wider smart home ecosystems. Remote access via smartphone


or tablet gives users complete control from anywhere, improving engagement and helping to optimise energy use. For installers, this means delivering a system that’s both effi cient and easy for homeowners to operate.


Handing over When transitioning homeowners to low-temperature, underfl oor heating, they must be left feeling confi dent in operating the system. Naturally, it operates very diff erently from traditional radiator systems, so one crucial item on the handover checklist is the system’s response time. Unlike radiators, which can


feel warm within minutes, a screeded UFH system, for example, can take up to an hour or more to reach target temperatures. This is often the fi rst thing customers notice, so setting realistic expectations is key. While radiator systems are typically scheduled to switch on and off throughout the day, UFH performs best when operated continuously at a consistent, comfortable temperature. Installers should guide


Heating controls that are convenient and easy to use will encourage customers to engage with their heating system in a way that brings about effi ciency and savings


customers away from an on/off mindset and towards effi cient temperature operation. A practical recommendation is to set the ‘off ’ periods just 4°C lower than the ‘on’ temperature. This approach ensures the fl oor never drops too far below the comfort level, reducing warm-up times and maintaining system effi ciency.


By helping customers


understand this operational diff erence, installers can ensure smoother transitions, improved satisfaction and long-term performance from the UFH system.


Supplier partners Underfl oor heating has already demonstrated its eff ectiveness in meeting the latest and future regulations. So, with the right technology and support from experienced partners, installers who understand this technology are well-equipped to meet evolving energy effi ciency requirements. Working with trusted suppliers


who can provide technical advice on fully compliant UFH systems and technical advice, pre, during and post-installation, are the ideal partners for installers on the journey to net zero. Members of the BEAMA


Underfl oor Heating Group are known for delivering high- quality systems and components, supported by expert design, reliable customer service, and dependable technical advice. This level of support gives customers confi dence that they can access guidance directly from the source, should they need it. Importantly, this reassurance helps users get the most out of their smart thermostats, maximising energy effi ciency and system performance. This proactive support also


reduces the number of avoidable callouts for installers, as many common queries can be resolved quickly with the manufacturer or supplier’s advice, enabling a better experience for homeowners and installers alike.


Find out more To learn more and contact a BEAMA Underfl oor Heating Group member, use the link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/725/46


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