Manifolds and Pumps Underfloor Heating
Underfloor Heating Manifold
Function: The manifold is a central distribution unit that connects the underfloor heating pipes to the heating source (like a boiler or heat pump). It regulates the flow of water through the pipes.
Key Features:
- Manifolds typically have multiple inlets for connecting to the heating source and multiple outlets for the different loops of underfloor heating.
- Manifolds come with flow meters to monitor the water flow to each loop, ensuring balanced heating.
- Isolation Valves: These allow individual loops to be turned on or off for maintenance or system adjustments.
Efficient Distribution: Ensures an even distribution of warm water across all heating loops, improving overall system efficiency.
Easier Maintenance: With isolation valves, it’s easier to service individual loops without disrupting the entire system.
Underfloor Heating Pump
The pump circulates hot water from the heating source through the manifold and into the underfloor heating pipes.
- Pumps are designed to provide adequate flow rates to ensure that water reaches all parts of the heating system efficiently.
- Some pumps allow for speed adjustments based on system demand, improving energy efficiency.
- The pump can be integrated with the manifold or installed separately, depending on the system design.
Underfloor Heating Manifolds
Underfloor heating manifolds are responsible for distributing hot water to the individual heating loops. These devices precisely control the flow and temperature of the water in each loop, so that heat can be distributed evenly throughout the rooms. The manifold consists of two main components, the supply line and the return line. The supply line distributes water from the heating unit (e.g. boiler or heat pump) to the pipes, while the return line carries the cooled water back to the heat source, allowing it to warm up again.
The operation of the manifold relies on precise control of the water flow. Each heating loop connected to the manifold has control valves that allow you to adjust the amount of water flowing through it. This allows the temperature in individual rooms to be controlled to suit the individual needs of the users. In addition, many advanced manifolds are equipped with flow meters that allow you to monitor system operation and adjust its performance to user needs, and with vent valves that remove air from the system, ensuring its proper operation.