Are you considering installing underfloor heating in your home, but don’t know where to start? A crucial part of the installation process is wiring the thermostat correctly. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps of wiring the thermostat for your underfloor heating system, with a detailed wiring diagram and frequently asked questions.
What is Underfloor Heating?
Underfloor heating is a heating system that is installed directly under the floor surface, providing a comfortable and even heat distribution. This system can be installed as part of a new build or added to an existing property, providing an energy-efficient and cost-effective solution to heating your home.
Types of Underfloor Heating Systems
Before we dive into the wiring diagram, it’s important to note that there are two main types of underfloor heating systems: electric and water-based.
The electric system is a network of cables that are installed under the floor, which are heated by electricity. The water-based system, on the other hand, uses a network of pipes to heat the floor, powered by hot water from a boiler or heat pump.
The wiring process for the thermostat will differ depending on which system you have, so be sure to follow the appropriate instructions for your system.
Wiring the Thermostat for Electric Underfloor Heating
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to wire the thermostat for electric underfloor heating:
Gather the Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Item | Quantity |
| Thermostat | 1 |
| Underfloor Heating Wire | As needed |
| Junction Box | 1 |
| Cable Ties | As needed |
| Screwdrivers | As needed |
| Wire Strippers | As needed |
Plan the Wiring
The first step is to plan the wiring layout. Locate the thermostat in a convenient and accessible location on the wall, away from any sources of direct heat.
Next, determine the position of the junction box. This should be located near the floor, safely and securely out of view. Ensure that there is enough space in the junction box to comfortably accommodate all the wires and connections.
Wire the Thermostat
Now it’s time to wire the thermostat. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to wire the thermostat, bearing in mind the following:
- The thermostat will need to be connected to the mains electricity supply, so it should be installed by a qualified electrician.
- Ensure that all wires are correctly connected, and that there are no exposed wires.
- Use cable ties to secure the wires to the wall and prevent any strain on the connections.
Connect the Underfloor Heating Wire
Finally, connect the underfloor heating wire to the junction box. Make sure that all the wires are securely connected, and that there are no loose connections.
Your underfloor heating system is now ready to use!
Wiring the Thermostat for Water-Based Underfloor Heating
The wiring process for a water-based underfloor heating system is slightly different. Here’s how to wire the thermostat for water-based underfloor heating:
Gather the Materials
You’ll need the following materials:
| Item | Quantity |
| Thermostat | 1 |
| Junction Box | 1 |
| Cable Ties | As needed |
| Screwdrivers | As needed |
| Wire Strippers | As needed |
| Zone Valve Actuators | As needed |
| Pump Relay | 1 |
| Pump | 1 |
Plan the Wiring
The first step is to plan the wiring layout. Locate the thermostat in a convenient and accessible location on the wall, away from any sources of direct heat.
Next, determine the position of the junction box. This should be located near the floor, safely and securely out of view. Ensure that there is enough space in the junction box to comfortably accommodate all the wires and connections.
Wire the Thermostat
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to wire the thermostat, bearing in mind the following:
- The thermostat will need to be connected to the mains electricity supply, so it should be installed by a qualified electrician.
- Ensure that all wires are correctly connected, and that there are no exposed wires.
- Use cable ties to secure the wires to the wall and prevent any strain on the connections.
Connect the Zone Valve Actuators
Now it’s time to connect the zone valve actuators. These will control the flow of hot water to each zone of your underfloor heating system. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to wire the zone valve actuators, ensuring that each one is correctly installed and connected to the system.
Connect the Pump Relay
The pump relay will control the flow of hot water through your underfloor heating system. Connect the pump relay to the zone valve actuators, following the manufacturer’s instructions and ensuring that it is securely connected.
Connect the Pump
Finally, connect the pump to the pump relay. The pump will circulate hot water through your underfloor heating system, ensuring that each zone receives an even distribution of heat.
Your water-based underfloor heating system is now wired and ready to use!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an electrician to wire my underfloor heating thermostat?
Yes, you will need a qualified electrician to wire your underfloor heating thermostat, as it involves working with mains electricity. Attempting to wire the thermostat yourself could be dangerous and cause serious injury or damage to your property.
Can I install underfloor heating in a bathroom or shower room?
Yes, you can install underfloor heating in a bathroom or shower room, but it’s important to choose the correct type of heating system. Electric underfloor heating is the best choice for wet areas, as it can be easily isolated and repaired if there is a fault.
Can I install underfloor heating under any type of flooring?
Underfloor heating can be installed under a variety of flooring types, including tiles, laminate, and carpet. However, it’s important to check with the manufacturer of your flooring to ensure that it’s suitable for use with underfloor heating.
How much will it cost to install underfloor heating?
The cost of installing underfloor heating will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of your property, the type of heating system you choose, and the complexity of the installation. On average, electric underfloor heating will cost around £50-£70 per square metre, while water-based underfloor heating can cost around £80-£120 per square metre.
Is underfloor heating energy-efficient?
Yes, underfloor heating is one of the most energy-efficient heating systems available. The even distribution of heat means that your home will stay warmer for longer, and you’ll use less energy to heat your property overall.
We hope that this article has helped you to understand how to wire your underfloor heating thermostat correctly. Remember: if in doubt, always seek the advice of a qualified professional.
