Are there generic manifolds that we can use with any brand pipe or actuators and not tied up with a brand for spare parts? Do actuators have a common fitting standard or all are brand specific?
It's best to stick to the same brand as the manifold. They have different threads and 'stroke' lengths so while some will work on a different manifold, others won't.
why not? nahh its not diy. just trying to find out the differences between manifold brands and I dont want to tie myself to one manufacturer for the spare parts when replacement require. some websites have quite a choice for parts and says "will fit most popular manifolds" https://underfloorparts.co.uk/product-category/underfloor-heating-manifold-valve-actuator-heads/
Decent manifold products from well known heating manufactures like Danfoss will last a long time,as long as they are installed correctly. Danfoss will be around for many years,cant say that about some of the unknown,rebadged or unbranded products. Spares can be intermixed,many people just purchase the cheapest items and hope for the best
thats very true but "local availability" from retailers is important as well. I had a quick look and couldn't see a price or even a complete set of Danfoss manifolds. It seems their marketing focused more on controllers here. I was considering Hep2o's manifold but not sure about their composite manifolds rather than brass. Better to go for a well known, well-tested and tried for long time system. Lets see what other recommendations will come up
I have bought several UFH systems from different vendors, including our hosts, and many of them mix and match individual items from different vendors to pull them together into tried and tested systems. The vendors themselves take on the role of system integrator and will help you with any incompatibility issues you may have. I found these guys to be really great (https://www.underfloorheatingsupply.co.uk/underfloor-heating-kits).
The down side of that is when a problem develops, the manifold manufacturer blames the supplier of the actuators and vice versa, leaving the installer high & dry. I understand people looking to save money but for me, I'd rather fit a Grohe tap or Uponor actuator, pay the premium and have piece of mind.