Underfloor Heating

Underfloor Heating System Upgrade

An underfloor heating system upgrade improves the performance and controllability of an existing wet (water-based) system. It focuses on getting each heating circuit flowing correctly, modernising controls where needed, and resolving faults so rooms heat evenly at lower temperatures.

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What an underfloor heating system upgrade includes

An upgrade is tailored to your current system and the issues you are seeing. Work can include:

  • System assessment and fault-finding across manifolds, pumps, valves and pipe circuits.
  • Manifold upgrades or repairs, including flow meters, isolating valves and air vents.
  • Pump checks and replacement where performance is poor or noisy.
  • Actuator and wiring checks to ensure each zone opens and closes correctly.
  • Thermostat and control upgrades for better zoning and quicker response.
  • System balancing to match flow rates to room demand for more even heat.
  • Cleaning and water quality improvements, such as flushing and inhibitor dosing where required.
  • Commissioning and testing, with clear handover guidance on settings and operation.

When an upgrade is the right option

This service is a good fit if your underfloor heating is working, but not working well. Common signs include cold patches, rooms that never reach temperature, frequent airlocks, noisy pumps, stuck actuators, or zones that behave unpredictably. It is also useful when you want better control, for example adding or improving zoning, or making the system run more efficiently alongside a modern boiler or heat pump.

How the upgrade is delivered

The process starts with a site visit to inspect the manifold area, controls and visible pipework, then a structured set of checks to pinpoint restrictions, air ingress, control issues or circulation problems. You will then receive a clear scope of works, with options where there is more than one sensible approach. Once approved, the system is isolated and drained as needed, components are repaired or upgraded, then the system is refilled, purged, balanced and tested zone by zone.

After the upgrade: getting the best results

After commissioning, you will get practical guidance on thermostat settings, warm-up expectations and how to avoid common issues like over-adjusting flow rates. Where relevant, follow-up checks can fine-tune balancing after the system has run through normal daily use. Ongoing maintenance, such as periodic checks of the manifold, pump operation and inhibitor levels, helps keep performance stable over the long term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an underfloor heating system be upgraded without lifting the floor?
In many cases, yes. Most upgrades focus on the manifold, pump and controls, which are accessible without disturbing the floor. If the pipework in the floor is damaged or poorly installed, further investigation may be needed.
How long does an underfloor heating upgrade take?
Smaller upgrades, such as replacing controls or actuators and rebalancing, are often completed within a day. More involved work, such as manifold replacement or flushing multiple circuits, can take longer. The exact timing depends on the number of zones and access to components.
Will upgrading improve efficiency and running costs?
It can, especially if the system is currently unbalanced or short-cycling due to control issues. Better zoning, correct flow rates and steady low-temperature operation can reduce wasted heat. Savings depend on insulation levels, heat source and how the system is used.
Can you upgrade underfloor heating to work better with a heat pump?
Yes, wet underfloor heating is well suited to heat pumps because it runs at lower water temperatures. An upgrade may include improving controls, ensuring correct flow, and checking mixing or blending arrangements. This helps the system deliver comfort without needing high temperatures.
What disruption should I expect during the work?
There is usually some downtime while the system is isolated, drained and refilled, and you may be without heating in affected zones during this period. Most work is concentrated around the manifold and controls, so disruption is limited. You will be advised in advance if any access is needed to thermostats or wiring routes.

Related Services

Complete your experience with these services

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  • Underfloor Heating Repair
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  • Underfloor Heating Pump Replacement
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  • Underfloor Heating Manifold Installation
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  • Underfloor Heating Fault Diagnosis
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  • Underfloor Heating Commissioning
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  • Underfloor Heating Actuator Replacement
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