PHAM NEWS | MAY 2025 Underfl oorHeating 35
Multi-zone and UFH a perfect match
Chris Stammers from BEAMA explores the key benefi ts of multi-zone underfl oor heating systems and discusses why these solutions have gained traction for installers and homeowners seeking a balance of energy effi ciency, fl exibility and comfort.
M
ulti-zone heating enables a property to be divided into distinct ‘zones’
that can be heated independently, providing homeowners with enhanced control over comfort and energy consumption. Each zone can be regulated individually, either manually or through smart controls, ensuring that heating is delivered only where and when it is needed. Depending on how the homeowner intends to use each space, installers might suggest combining the living room and kitchen into one zone, the bedrooms as another, and the bathrooms as a third. This setup is optimal for enhancing effi ciency and providing better control over each area. During the colder months, frequently used spaces like the living room and kitchen can be kept warm and cosy, while the temperature in less often occupied rooms – such as home offi ces that go unused on weekends – can be lowered, helping to reduce energy consumption and lower heating bills.
UFH in zoned systems Hydronic (water-based) underfl oor heating (UFH) is well- suited for multi-zone heating, as it operates through separate, independently controlled zones. These established capabilities of UFH have brought the solution into the spotlight, and the technology complies with evolving regulations like Part L and the upcoming Future Homes Standard. Ideal for new builds and major home renovations, hydronic UFH systems naturally accommodate a multi-zone heating confi guration. This is achieved through a series of interconnected pipe circuits arranged in loops within the subfl oor, with each loop connecting back to a central manifold. Underfl oor heating manifolds can simultaneously manage multiple zones, allowing each area – or room – to be heated
Precise system design is crucial to ensuring the desired heat output is achieved
to a diff erent temperature based on the user’s preferences.
Chris Stammers Compliance services manager at BEAMA
Numbers don’t lie Eff ectively, UFH converts the fl oor into a large heat emitter; heat is evenly distributed across the surface, helping to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature in every space. This stable and consistent air temperature promotes more effi cient system performance and enhances overall comfort. Recent research from Salford University’s Energy House 2.0 demonstrated that hydronic underfl oor heating (UFH) excels at maintaining consistent
temperatures throughout each zone. The study recorded minimal temperature variation, only 0.8°C at -5°C and 0.7°C at +5°C when operated using a standard SAP heating pattern. Traditional radiators showed a minimum variation of 2.2°C, while other systems displayed diff erences of up to 4°C. Even greater consistency was achieved when UFH was running continuously.
These results also emphasise UFH’s advantage when combined with air source heat pumps (ASHPs), delivering effi cient, evenly distributed heat throughout the home. The low-temperature, radiant heating method boosts energy performance, enhances long- term occupant comfort, and assists in meeting low-carbon building standards.
In control Controls are vital for the effi cient functioning of any UFH system and should always be a top priority when specifying and installing. Recent regulatory updates also request that new systems in homes with a fl oor area of 150m2
or more include
at least two independently controlled zones, necessitating smart or thermostatic controls. Effi cient controls allow
precise regulation of heating output and temperature levels in a zoned system, enhancing user fl exibility and minimising energy waste. Because UFH is naturally designed and installed in zones, integrating controls is straightforward and can be implemented as it has traditionally been. While ensuring that the chosen heating system is highly energy effi cient is essential, only half of the benefi ts may be realised if the system is not combined with
an advanced intelligent control system. Smart controls enhance a heating system’s performance, helping to prevent energy waste and consequently reduce its operating costs.
Precise design Additionally, a high-limit thermostat should be installed in the UFH distribution system if the heat generator can provide water temperatures exceeding 60°C. A well-designed zoned system enables the end user to create distinct temperature zones, each with personalised settings that can be adjusted and monitored from the thermostat or smartphone app, ensuring comfort and energy savings. For any project, precise system
design is crucial to ensuring the desired heat output is achieved and that the fi nished system meets the end user’s expectations. Collaborating with a specialist supplier who can off er expert knowledge – whether by providing initial CAD system designs, heat output and heat loss calculations, and controls, or technical and after-sales support – is invaluable for the success of any project. This support assures installers and customers that the system will deliver optimal performance from the outset and well into the future. ◼
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More information
The BEAMA Underfl oor Heating Group is the UK’s national trade association for underfl oor heating (UFH). Its members strive to provide quality systems and components, supported by excellent design, customer service and reliable advice. Visit
beama.org.uk to learn more and connect with a BEAMA Underfl oor Heating Group member.
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