Should I use antifreeze?

Mark J

I am an experienced plumber who unfortunately has not had the oppurtunity to do much heating. I know the the basics and more but have much to learn. I'm looking at a job now installing hot water baseboard in an "ADD A LEVEL" with 2' overhangs on each side.I've been told never to install water or hydronic heat piping in overhangs but life will suck if I can't. I've been given advice regarding adding antifreeze to the system but I'm unfamiliar with the procedure or if it is effective. Looking for input. Thank you in advance for your response!

Gary Fereday

Aunti Freeze ?

Yes it is ok. Get it from your heating supplier for "hot water " heating equipment. Install it according to the reccomamdations on the containers. Pump it into the system, and pressure it up to 12 psi if that will fill the system. Use only antifreeze that is for hot water heating.
RV & Auto anti freeze liquid is ment and formulated for those applications, not for wet heat!
bigugh
Ps You need a backflo device installed on any potable water inlet connected to the boiler.

rick_4

anti freeze

how deep are the over hanges

Bill NTSG

Last resort

I have done many raised ranch style homes with overhangs. Also have fixed many frozen pipes in ones installed by others. The trick is to keep your pipe up as high as possible[the other trick is to keep it out of the overhang altogether] and insulate w/pipe insulation and then insulate the underfloor area with fiberglass building insualtion.

[Deleted User]

Alaskan Experience

Did a lot of baseboard when I lived in Alaska. Everything was on pilings, so this 2 foot overhang is a piece of cake. Use the antifreeze for sure. The other thing I use to do when piping absolutely had to go through floor joists was to wrap with self regulating heat tape, and leave the plug on the end out somewhere where you can get to it. In the worst case when the boiler goes out, the antifreeze can get really cold and sluggish. You get the boiler going again and then plug in the heat tape to thaw that section. Works like a charm, and your the hero again!

Mark J

Adding to system


Thanks for the responses, I'll try the antifreeze.I'm not sure how to properly pump it into the system then purge without losing it.

zeb_3

Is it possible?

Is it in any way possible to run piping up through the floor on an interior wall, using enclosure to conceal piping. I try to do this first, antifreeze is a last resort.