Underfloor heating (UFH) systems are an increasingly popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings due to their efficiency and comfort. However, selecting the right type of pipe is crucial for the system's overall performance and durability. This article provides a technical comparison of the main UFH pipe types and examines each type in terms of thermal conductivity, composition, ease of installation, and application range.
Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision for your specific heating requirements. Whether you're a homeowner looking to upgrade your heating system or a contractor planning a new installation, this guide will provide valuable insights into the best pipe options available.
Contents
- What are the main UFH Pipe Types?
- Understanding the Differences Between the Main UFH Pipe Types
- What are PEX-a (Cross-linked Polyethylene Type A) pipes?
- What are PEX-c (Cross-linked Polyethylene Type C) pipes?
- What are PERT (Polyethylene of Raised Temperature Resistance) pipes?
- What are PERT-AL-PERT (Polyethylene of Raised Temperature Resistance with Aluminium Layer) pipes?
- What are Polybutylene (PB) pipes?
- Comparative Summary Table
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What are the main UFH Pipe Types?
This article provides a technical comparison of the main UFH pipe types: PEX-a, PEX-c, PERT, PERT-AL-PERT, and Polybutylene (PB). We'll examine each type in terms of thermal conductivity, composition, ease of installation, and application range.
Quick look:
- PEX-a: Best flexibility and high thermal resistance, suitable for various applications.
- PEX-c: Cost-effective with good performance but requires careful handling.
- PERT: Good thermal conductivity and flexibility, ideal for general UFH systems.
- PERT-AL-PERT: Combines flexibility with excellent heat distribution and oxygen barrier properties.
- Polybutylene (PB): Highly flexible and easy to install but less durable in high-temperature environments.
Understanding the Differences Between the Main UFH Pipe Types
Now that you know the pipes and a summary of their key qualities, let's take a deeper dive into the main specifications, advantages and disadvantages, and applications of each of the main UFH pipe types.
PEX-a (Cross-linked Polyethylene Type A)
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY | Value: 0.35 W/mK Performance: Good thermal conductivity, suitable for UFH applications. |
COMPOSITION | Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) with cross-linking achieved through the peroxide (Engel) method. Features: High flexibility and superior temperature resistance due to uniform cross-linking. |
EASE OF INSTALLATION | Advantages: Very flexible, allowing for easy bending and installation without tools. Low risk of kinks, which can be easily repaired if they occur. Disadvantages: Slightly higher cost compared to other PEX variants. |
RANGE OF APPLICATION | Suitable for: Domestic and commercial UFH systems, potable water supply, and radiator connections. Temperature Range: -50°C to +110°C Pressure Range: Up to 10 bar at 95°C |
PEX-c (Cross-linked Polyethylene Type C)
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY | Value: 0.35 W/mK Performance: Good thermal conductivity, similar to PEX-a. |
COMPOSITION | Material: HDPE with cross-linking achieved through electron beam (beta) irradiation. Features: Less uniform cross-linking compared to PEX-a, making it less flexible. |
EASE OF INSTALLATION | Advantages: Moderate flexibility, easier to handle than some non-cross-linked pipes. Disadvantages: More prone to kinking and requires careful handling. |
RANGE OF APPLICATION | Suitable for: Domestic UFH systems, plumbing, and heating applications. Temperature Range: -50°C to +110°C Pressure Range: Up to 10 bar at 95°C |
PERT (Polyethylene of Raised Temperature Resistance)
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY | Value: 0.45 W/mK Performance: Slightly higher thermal conductivity than PEX pipes, improving heat transfer efficiency. |
COMPOSITION | Material: Polyethylene with enhanced temperature resistance due to a specialized polymer structure. Features: Good flexibility, but not as robust as cross-linked alternatives. |
EASE OF INSTALLATION | Advantages: Flexible and easy to install with less risk of kinks compared to PEX-c. Disadvantages: Not as durable as PEX-a in extreme conditions. |
RANGE OF APPLICATION | Suitable for: UFH systems, hot and cold water distribution. Temperature Range: -40°C to +95°C Pressure Range: Up to 6 bar at 70°C |
PERT-AL-PERT (Polyethylene of Raised Temperature Resistance with Aluminium Layer)
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY | Value: 0.45 W/mK Performance: Higher thermal conductivity due to the aluminium layer, excellent for heat distribution. |
COMPOSITION | Material: Multi-layer pipe with inner and outer PERT layers and a central aluminium layer. Features: Combines flexibility of PERT with the stability and oxygen barrier properties of aluminium. |
EASE OF INSTALLATION | Advantages: Good flexibility, holds shape when bent, and excellent oxygen barrier properties. Disadvantages: Requires specialised fittings and tools for installation. |
RANGE OF APPLICATION | Suitable for: UFH systems, radiator connections, potable water supply. Temperature Range: -40°C to +95°C Pressure Range: Up to 10 bar at 70°C |
Polybutylene (PB)
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY | Value: 0.22 W/mK Performance: Lower thermal conductivity compared to PEX and PERT, but still adequate for UFH. |
COMPOSITION | Material: Flexible polymer with good resistance to pressure and temperature. Features: High flexibility, easy to handle, and lightweight. |
EASE OF INSTALLATION | Advantages: Extremely flexible, easy to install in tight spaces, and minimal risk of kinking. Disadvantages: Less durable in high-temperature conditions compared to cross-linked alternatives. |
RANGE OF APPLICATION | Suitable for: Domestic UFH systems, potable water supply, and low-temperature radiator connections. Temperature Range: -40°C to +95°C Pressure Range: Up to 6 bar at 70°C |
Comparative Summary Table
Feature | PEX-A | PEX-C | PERT | PERT-AL-PERT | POLYBUTYLENE |
Thermal Conductivity | 0.35 W/mK | 0.35 W/mK | 0.40 W/mK | 0.45 W/mK | 0.22 W/mK |
Composition | HDPE peroxide cross-linked | HDPE electron beam cross-linked | Polyethylene with temperature resistance | PERT with aluminium layer | Flexible polymer |
Ease of Installation | Very flexible for installation | Moderate flexibility, careful handling required | Flexible, easy to install | Good flexibility, holds shape for single person installs | Extremely flexible, easy to install |
Application Range | Domestic and commercial UFH, potable water | Domestic UFH, plumbing | Domestic and commercial UFH, hot and cold water distribution | Domestic UFH, radiator connections, potable water | Domestic UFH, potable water |
Temperature Range | -50°C to +110°C | -50°C to +110°C | -40°C to +95°C | -40°C to +95°C | -40°C to +90°C |
Pressure Range | Up to 10 bar at 95°C | Up to 10 bar at 95°C | Up to 6 bar at 70°C | Up to 10 bar at 70°C | Up to 6 bar at 70°C |
Conclusion
Selecting the appropriate UFH pipe depends on specific project requirements, including thermal conductivity, ease of installation, and application range.
- PEX-a offers the best flexibility and high thermal resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
- PEX-c is a cost-effective alternative with good performance but requires careful handling.
- PERT provides good thermal conductivity and flexibility, ideal for general UFH systems.
- PERT-AL-PERT combines flexibility with excellent heat distribution and oxygen barrier properties, suitable for high-performance applications.
- Polybutylene (PB) offers high flexibility and ease of installation but is less durable in high-temperature environments.
Each pipe type has unique strengths, making them suitable for different UFH system needs. If you need advice or support on what UFH pipes to choose for your project, contact our team on sales@theufhgroup.co.uk or 03300 565 830.
FAQs
What is the main advantage of using PEX-a pipes in UFH systems? PEX-a pipes offer superior flexibility and temperature resistance, making them ideal for a wide range of applications and easy installation.
How does PERT-AL-PERT improve heat distribution in UFH systems? The aluminium layer in PERT-AL-PERT pipes provides higher thermal conductivity, enhancing heat distribution efficiency in UFH systems.
Why might someone choose Polybutylene (PB) pipes for their UFH system? Polybutylene pipes are extremely flexible and easy to install, especially in tight spaces, although they are less durable at high temperatures.
What are the temperature and pressure ranges for PEX-c pipes? PEX-c pipes can handle temperatures from -50°C to +110°C and pressures up to 10 bar at 95°C.
Is PEX-a more expensive than other PEX variants? Yes, PEX-a pipes tend to be slightly more expensive due to their superior flexibility and uniform cross-linking.
Are there any other types of UFH pipes? Yes, other types of UFH pipes include metal and multilayer composite pipes, but they are less commonly used compared to PEX, PERT, and Polybutylene due to their higher cost and installation complexity.
Where can I buy UFH pipes? You can purchase a wide range of UFH pipes through the UFH Group. Visit our website at theufhgroup.co.uk for more information and to browse our selection.
As a DIY’er, can I fit UFH pipes myself or do I need a professional? While it is possible for a DIY enthusiast to install UFH pipes, it is generally recommended to hire a professional. Proper installation is crucial for system efficiency and avoiding potential issues. Professionals have the expertise and tools necessary to ensure a successful installation.
How do I know how much UFH pipe I need? The amount of UFH pipe required depends on the size of the area you plan to heat and the spacing of the pipes. A common rule of thumb is to use about 5-6 meters of pipe per square meter of floor area. It's best to consult with a professional or use a UFH pipe calculator to get a precise estimate based on your specific project.
