PHAM NEWS | MAY 2026 Underfl oorHeating


Manifolds – the heart of every


UFH system


Despite being essential to the performance and reliability of underfl oor heating, manifolds often don’t get the consideration they deserve. Sam White, technical sales manager at RWC, explains the importance of manifolds and how installers can use them to maximise the effi ciency of UFH systems.


an increased focus on sustainability, or evolutions in heating technology, home heating is undergoing a revolution. In recent years, underfl oor


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heating has secured its place as one of the preferred choices for homeowners and housebuilders – and many installers have upskilled to meet rising demand for the installation of these systems. This growth shows no signs of slowing, with UFH now widely specifi ed across new build developments, and a fi rm favourite among homeowners undertaking home renovations. When it comes to getting the


most out of these underfl oor heating systems and ensuring they are fi t for purpose for decades to come, manifolds play a critical role. They can make all the diff erence when it comes to unlocking performance, yet despite being a pivotal component, manifolds are often overlooked during the design and specifi cation process.


Making connections Wet underfl oor heating systems are the most widely used in homes across the UK, largely due to their ability to work seamlessly with a broad range of heat sources, be adaptable to projects of diff erent shapes and sizes, and support straightforward installation. Manifolds sit behind this


functionality, acting as the vital control network that connects the heat source and the underfl oor pipework that spans every zone. But they do more than circulate water around the


hether it’s down to shifting homeowner preferences,


system. They ensure correct distribution to every zone and maintain optimum temperatures to maximise system effi ciency. It’s this function that also puts control into the hands of users, allowing them to select diff erent temperatures in diff erent zones, with the manifold making it possible. To achieve the best results


Sam White Technical sales manager at RWC


on every underfl oor heating system, manifolds must be optimally positioned – which is typically central to the heating zones. As well as helping to keep pipe lengths to a minimum for each zone, a central location underpins system effi ciency by minimising heat loss between the source and the network of pipes. The location will also support


As well as helping to keep pipe lengths to a minimum, a central location underpins system efficiency by minimising heat loss between the source and the network of pipes


future maintenance of the system. With pipes buried beneath the fl oor, their longevity is essential, with all other maintenance – including annual services – being carried out via the manifold.


Right for the job When it comes to choosing the right manifold for the job, installers have to consider a broad range of factors – from how they operate through to what space they’ll occupy once up and running. For most homeowners, space


is essential, as it gives them more interior design freedom and greater fl exibility with furniture choices. Maximised space is therefore just one of the factors that have given rise to underfl oor heating in recent years, providing a viable way to move away from traditional radiator systems while eff ectively freeing up wall space and allowing rooms to off er greater functionality. With


that in mind, choosing an UFH manifold – which must remain accessible and occupy a central location – that takes up as little room as possible is essential.


Cost eff ective The new Euroconus underfl oor heating manifold from JG Underfl oor (pictured above) provides a reliable option for installers. Value-engineered to be more cost-effi cient while maintaining the same high- quality as the JG Speedfi t push- fi t solutions, the Euroconus manifold is a mechanically connected solution ideal for budget-focused projects that still require reliable, consistent performance. Based on the same technology


as previous manifolds, it is proven to deliver on domestic UFH installations, providing improved performance, fl ow adjustment, reliability and functionality that modern underfl oor heating systems demand.


Push-fi t benefi ts When used with the Euroconus adaptor, the manifold can also be paired with the new JG 16mm PERT pipe, which makes life easier for installers when fi tting or maintaining the manifold. A typical UFH manifold will have up to 24 pipe connections located closely together, allowing for 12 distribution and return networks, but the smaller the manifold, the trickier it can be to make these connections – unless push-fi t technology is used. As installers aren’t required to use tools to make push-fi t connections, jobs can be carried out quickly and easily by simply cutting the appropriate pipe lengths and pushing them onto the manifold’s collets.


Staying on top As more homeowners and housebuilders opt for underfl oor heating to improve comfort, heighten effi ciency and transform the functionality of interior spaces, it is crucial for installers to stay on top of the latest developments that underpin UFH technology. This enables them to deliver the best results for customers and create systems that will stand the test of time. JG Underfl oor – part of the


RWC family of brands – has a wide range of systems to suit homes of all shapes and sizes. Behind each of these systems is the manifold technology that underpins long-term performance, effi ciency and reliability – and installers can access it all from a single manufacturer. As a trusted manufacturer of


underfl oor heating systems, JG Underfl oor provides solutions for every application – from new build properties through to retrofi t systems for existing homes. Whatever the project, JG Underfl oor can help every installer to deliver. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/526/28


CUT TO THE CHASE


 Manifolds can make all the difference to the performance of the UFH system


 A central location will help to minimise the system’s heat losses


 Space saving should also be a factor when considering which manifold to use


 Push-fi t connections can help to reduce installation time


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