In the past many consumers identified a product’s standard by its country of origin. The European manufacturers in particular were seen to be flag bearers for quality, whilst countries such as China were considered to be trailing in their wake. However, it is now important to raise awareness in the consumer that this is not the case. A product’s quality needs to be assessed by the certification it has garnered such as WRAS here in the UK or TUV in Germany. The problem stems from the fact that within the underfloor heating sector a product does not need to comply with WRAS’ standards of quality as it is not used in a potable water application. Therefore, the stringent testing they implement to asses a product is bypassed allowing the product to be used with just a simple ISO9001 regulation. Any subsequent failings then result in a dim view of the entire industry. What’s important to remember however is that not all companies and manufacturers act in this manner. A multitude of manufacturers including many from China now realise the importance of adhering to these comprehensive testing regulations and produce products of the utmost quality. Rifeng, a Chinese company who are the largest manufacturer of multilayer pipe in the world, carry certification from over 20 different countries including WRAS here in the UK. Their full range of products can be bought from UK Plumbing Supplies, the sole agents for Rifeng here in the UK. Therefore, if you are thinking of installing underfloor heating within your home always strive to see proof of a company’s certification as this is the best way to ascertain a product’s quality and reduce the risk of any potential failings in your installation.