Can a radiant floor freeze?
14. What happens if radiant floor freezes? One potential drawback to using water in a heating system is the potential for damage due to freezing. This could occur if the heating system failed or was switched off during extremely inclement weather.
What is the lowest water temperature required for effective radiant floor heating?
Typical radiant floor systems operate at 85 – 125 °F water temperature entering the tubing, and put the floor surface temperature about 5 degrees above the room thermostat set temperature.
What size PEX tubing should I use for radiant heat?
1/2 Inch PEX
Generally, for residential Radiant Heat Systems we recommend 1/2 Inch PEX Tubing. The PEX Tube size dictates the flow rate that can be achieved and thus the maximum loop length of the pex tube.
How do you size radiant floor heating?
To size the heating source, simply multiply your heat loss per square foot by the area (in sq. feet). You will need a heater or boiler with this rated output. Your contractor should confirm this calculation.
Can you use antifreeze in radiant floor heating?
You don’t have to use antifreeze, in fact a Radiant system is most efficient when using water. BUT “peace of mind” has it’s worth! If you feel you want or need to use antifreeze, continue below: We recommend Propylene Glycol (not automotive Ethylene Glycol) antifreeze.
Should I turn off radiant floor heating in summer?
A central heating system is designed to keep your home warm all winter. In summer though, you won’t be needing it. How do you ensure your underfloor heating system or radiators are ready to go when winter comes back around? As a general rule, you don’t need to turn the boiler off.
How much tubing do I need for radiant heat?
Generally, for a residential Infloor Heating System® we recommend 3/8″ and 1/2″ tubing. The tube size dictates the flow rate that can be achieved and also indicates the maximum loop length based on the head pressure. We generally recommend 5/8″ and 3/4″ tubing for large commercial and snowmelt applications.
Can I use regular PEX for radiant heat?
Can I use PEX pipe for radiant or hydronic heat applications? Yes, PEX pipe is approved for radiant or hydronic heating applications. Since ferrous components are likely to be present in the system, it is important to use oxygen barrier PEX pipe to help prevent ferrous components from rusting.
How far apart should radiant tubing be?
6 inches
This type of radiant heat often requires tubing to be installed every 6 inches (or closer) in order to provide sufficient heat. Warmboard is able to use tubing every 12 inches because of our superior conductivity. In fact, to match our heat output, thin slab would require tubing every 2 inches!