Common underfloor heating mistakes and how to avoid them

Plumber on the phone to tech support

Once installed correctly it’s time to turn on the Underfloor Heating (UFH) system. But very often, even when the right steps have been taken during installation, there can still be some roadblocks at the time of commissioning. Filling and commissioning a UFH system is critical to ensure optimum performance over the years, but often, some key aspects of system commissioning may be overlooked. Underfloor heating mistakes are easy to make during commissioning, but by following the advice below, you can minimise the risk of poor UFH system performance.

Mistake one: It never pays to assume

It’s all too easy to turn on a UFH system and expect it to work, even when the valves, gauges, and other key components of the system haven’t been properly set. The first step for commissioning any system is to set the relevant flow rate for each circuit, as well as the overall blended temperature. If you bypass this stage, the UFH system may operate inefficiently or worse, it may not operate at all. If you’re a dedicated JG Speedfit-fitter our team of highly trained engineers can provide you free advice and guidance whenever you install our UFH system.

Look out for JG Speedfit support.

electrician installing heating controls

Mistake two: Short-circuiting the electrician

Although their roles are very different, it is critical that plumbers and electricians collaborate on any UFH project to avoid underfloor heating mistakes. All wiring centres for UFH systems will be different and it can be risky to assume an electrician will always have the correct tools for the job. Whilst a three-core cable will control most UFH systems, if a customer is using an Aura dial thermostat and wishes to utilise the grouping feature, two more wires are needed to bring the total to five cores. This can often be missed. Overlooking these additional wires would limit the functionality of the thermostat and cause it to operate outside of the desired group. In this instance, a re-wiring of the system or a change to the electrical specification to a wireless system is the only option; adding cost and delays to a project.

JG Gateway for Battery RF Stats

Mistake three: Co-ordination for wireless systems

When installing our wireless JG Underfloor Heating Controls system it is important to install co-ordinators, which co-ordinate individual components on wireless UFH systems or TRVs. Without these, the components won’t be able to communicate, a common underfloor heating mistake.

By incorporating coordinators into your wireless JG Underfloor Heating Controls system, you are creating a network that enables precise control and coordination between all the elements involved. These coordinators act as the central hub, facilitating the exchange of information and commands between the various components, such as thermostats, actuators, and sensors. This ensures that your underfloor heating system operates harmoniously, delivering optimal comfort and energy efficiency.

Moreover, the installation of coordinators adds a layer of intelligence to your wireless UFH system. They enable advanced features like zoning, where different areas or rooms can be individually controlled, allowing for customised heating settings based on specific needs and preferences. This level of flexibility and control enhances the overall comfort and convenience of your underfloor heating system.

Pair of JG UFH Controls thermostats

Mistake four: Leaving the thermostat on default settings

Even when you’ve installed the UFH system completely by the book, there’s no guarantee that it will run as it should if you forget to set the thermostat correctly. When purchased, every thermostat will have the temperature and timing sequence pre-set for the average homeowner. However, not every homeowner wants the same level of UFH activity and to work well, the thermostat must be set to the correct date and time. This will enable it to efficiently switch its settings from weekdays to weekends. Otherwise, it may turn on at the wrong time, on the wrong programme. For a wireless thermostat remember to set the wireless system first and then the co-ordinator around the rest of the system. Always optimise your system by adjusting every thermostat ensuring no oversight in temperature control.

There you have it – a very simple four-stage guide to effective UFH commissioning. By avoiding some of the most common underfloor heating mistakes we have highlighted, you can ensure that an effective and high-performing system has been installed and that there aren’t any callbacks. UFH installation can be tricky and as with anything, it pays to take a little bit more time to carry out the necessary checks.

Need advice?

If you need advice on the right products for your project or technical specification information, get in touch.

Eric Winter Headshot

Eric Winter

EMEA Director of Product Development [Valves]

About the author

I've had the privilege of being a part of the RWC family for an incredible 25 years.

I joined the company in a technical support role and steadily progressed to become the Technical Director. Throughout my tenure, I've spearheaded the introduction of market-leading products that have revolutionised the industry.

In addition to product innovation, I am a member of WG14 working group, as part of the TC 164 technical committee, which is responsible for revising European and British valve standards. This multifaceted experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the industry, positioning me as a trusted expert in my field.