Underfloor heating FAQs

On this page you will find some of the most frequently asked questions we receive. If you require further assistance contact us here.

Can I control my underfloor heating from a smartphone?

Yes, our Quantum app-controlled range is perfect for controlling your heating from anywhere in the world, simply via your smartphone or tablet.

Can rooms be individually controlled with underfloor heating?

Yes. This is achieved by having a separate thermostatic zone within each room. This allows total control over your heating and temperatures within the individual rooms.

Can I install underfloor heating myself?

For those with adequate skills who follow our installation manual, installing underfloor heating pipework can be a do-it-yourself project. However, the complex tasks of connecting feed/return pipes and commissioning the system require the expertise of a certified plumber. Similarly, a licensed electrician must be consulted for the installation of the wiring center and thermostats. To gain further understanding of underfloor heating, be sure to check out our helpful webinars.

Can underfloor heating be installed over an existing floor?

UFH can be retrofitted, depending on build heights and floor construction. Please contact us at Continal: we’ll be able to recommend the best installation methods for your project.

Can underfloor heating be laid beneath kitchen units and sanitary items?

British Standards recommend that we avoid installing heating underneath kitchen units and sanitary ware. Although, this is sometimes possible if there is a breakfast bar or a wall-hung basin and WC.

Can underfloor heating be linked to a radiator system?

Yes, we have a single-zone pack that can connect to the radiator system. This takes 15mm feed and returns for easy connection of the pump pack. However, we recommend supplying the single-zone pack with its own direct hot and cold feed from the boiler whenever possible.

Can screed be poured over SlimFix®?

No, it is not advisable to screed over SlimFix®. This is because the finished floor can be applied directly as a floating floor. We can recommend alternative solutions to SlimFix®.

Do tiles work with underfloor heating?

Yes! Our TileFix®-18 and TileFix®-25 systems are perfect with tiles, and are designed to accept ceramic, porcelain, marble and stone tiles, using a suitable tile adhesive.

Can underfloor heating be used with a heat pump / combi boiler / electric boiler / Biomass boiler?

Our underfloor heating systems can work with any heat source, whatever the requirement.

Can underfloor heating be installed through old and new parts of a property?

Yes it can; although we recommend separating these wherever possible, as differing floor constructions can have different heat outputs and warm-up times.

Can underfloor heating be installed on first floors and above?

Yes. UFH can be installed on any floor, and we have products to suit all requirements. To find out what methods of installation are available click here.

Could the UFH pipe leak under my floor?

It is very unlikely that the underfloor heating pipe will leak under a floor from general wear-and-tear, and it comes with a 50-year working life. Leaks are mostly caused by installation errors and damage caused by later work (such as putting a screw through the floor).

Do I need a two-port zone valve?

It is recommended that a two-port zone valve is installed with every manifold. This ensures total boiler interlock and control over the system.

Do you recommend installers?

We currently do not have a list of registered installers to pass on. Any competent person can install underfloor heating, and Continal offers full technical support throughout the project.

Does carpet really work with underfloor heating?

Yes it does. The maximum tog rating with underfloor heating is 2.5 togs, including the underlay.

Are actuators required when using one thermostat?

Actuators are not required when using only one thermostat. Actuators allow individual control of circuits that have several thermostats.

Is underfloor heating more efficient than radiators?

Yes. Underfloor heating can be up to 30% more efficient than radiators (depending on your heat source). This gives you more cost savings on heating bills.

Is underfloor heating suitable for renovations?

Certainly. We have products and installations that can work with most renovation projects and scenarios. Contact our Technical Sales Advisers for more details.

I have high ceilings. Will I lose heat through the vaulted ceiling area?

There will always be some heat loss through ceiling areas, whatever the ceiling height or heating system. Because underfloor heating is a radiant heat that comes from the entire floor area, it’s well-suited to vaulted ceilings.

Can underfloor heating be installed where the floor is already laid?

Yes, using our AluPlate™ fit from below system.

What are the guarantees with a Continal Underfloor heating system?

Our electrical elements and circulation pumps are guaranteed for 2 years. Floor heating pipe is guaranteed for 10 years (insurance-backed), and the Quantum controls range for 5 years.

What type of finished floor coverings can be used?

Underfloor heating will work with most floor coverings, which include: solid wood, engineered board, laminate, ceramic tiles, carpet, vinyl, marble, stone, and slate. Always check with the floor manufacturer before installing underfloor heating.

Why do I need another pump on the underfloor heating system?

This is to ensure that the demand of the underfloor heating is met when the system is running, as the underfloor heating pipe covers a large area with a high capacity.

Is a heat pump a suitable heat source for underfloor heating?

Yes. Our underfloor heating systems can used with any heat source, including heat pumps.

Does the existing floor need to be dug up and replaced?

No. Continal has a variety of systems which can be used in this situation. Contact one of Technical Sales Advisers for advice or look at our overfloor systems.

Is underfloor heating safe and good for my health?

Underfloor heating is safer and healthier than conventional radiators. Because it’s spread across the entire floor, it helps remove draughts and cold spots. Underfloor heating reduces dust movement within the home, and of course, there are no hot surfaces.

What are the benefits of underfloor heating?

Underfloor heating has several benefits compared to other types of heating systems, including improved comfort, increased energy efficiency, and a reduction in heating costs.