best tubing type

eric_9

I've been reading that Type L copper is the best tubing type. How does it compare to Onix, Pex-Al-Pex, Pex with barrier? What is order of preference here? Thanks.

hr

Depends

on what you plan on using it for

hot rod

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eric_9

reply to rod

Hi Rod,

It will be used in subfloor heating under hardwood/tile flooring in home. I spoke to someone and they said copper is still the gold standard, and in my readings others have recommended Onix or some type of PEX. I want a tubing system that has longevity and durability. What would u put in your own home? THanks.

Ruthe Jubinville

Tubing

I used PB in my house when i did it in 1989. Today if I was adding more I would use onix. Jerry

eric_9

jerry, have you had problems with PB

Have you had problems with your PB yet- its been 15 years now. How are you preventing leakage as a result of PB?

Duncan_9

Order of preference

eric, since you said subfloor heating under hardwood/tile, I assume you're running it *under* the subfloor (not between subfloor and finish floor). All installs need attention to detail where tubing passes through drilled holes to avoid rubbing noises- plastic sleeving. Long runs of PEX need expansion loops to absorb movement.

I'd have to say L copper definitely is the gold standard as far as longevity and durability in closed systems with good water quality. Downside: Good luck installing it, it's a bear to work with (but practice makes perfect). It takes time: If your time less important than quality, go for it. I picture a long U for each joist space with solder or brazed joints at the ends.

Personally, I'd go with PEX-Al-PEX because it doesn't sag, is easy to work with, and doesn't expand and contract as much as PEX. Downside: Maybe not as tough as thick walled PEX, but good for your application. Needs care and attention not to kink - drill large holes for pulling tubing. You'll get the hang of it.

PEX is good for longevity and durability too. Downside: Expands and contracts a lot, needs special attention in this respect. The tubing sags when you put the heat to it. Guess that's not an issue if you don't care about aesthetics.

You couldn't pay me to use any rubber product if longevity and durability is determining the selection.

As a side note, I used PB in my own home for slab heating. 12 years old. Not a problem if you use low temperatures. I used standard compression fittings - inserts and compression rings.

Are you having leaks?

eric_9

no leaks yet, but...

Thanks for thorough explanation Duncan. I have no leaks yet in my 7 years old PB system. Although I am worried sick about the future. My system has a cast iron condensing boiler (Slant Fin), and Watts expansion tank, and a Jass-Tam stainless steel heat exchanger as far as I know. I'm really not sure what next step should be- upgrade system, clean it out without replacing components or move. We also have been thinking of building own home at some point in time, so this info will come in handy then as well.

Ruthe Jubinville

PB

I haven't had any problem with the tubing. I had circulator problems on one job that I think was caused by oxygen diffusion.Iv.e got some jobs with PB that have been in 20 yrs. No problems yet. Jerry J

hr

A lot depends on

the temperature the PB operates at. Higher temperatures invite more O2 ingress.

Also the amount of ferrous materials. Seems cast iron boiler are less prone to degredation (sp). Technicaly called the "Relative Area Effect"

My experience is copper tube boilers present as problems of corrosion in the pump volutes. Pull a motor out of a circ and check the condition.

If you do a good high pressure flush, collect the gunk that comes out in a plastic container. Then hold a magnet against the container.

If the gunk swarms towards the magnet, guess what! Something ferrous is eating away!

I have seen them sludge bad enough to completly plug 1/2 PB loops. Beyond what a 125 psi compressor can dislodge.

Now don't panic. Not all PB systems go this way. I do feel the high temperature staple ups of any high temperature system is more vunerable.

Flush, and add a O2 inhibitor if you want piece of mind.

hot rod

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eric_9

good reliable boiler of reasonable price

hey guys,

Whats are a few reliable boilers of reasonable price you would recommend to heat 3200 sq ft, 3 level home? Brand and model names please.

I do have a stainless steel heat exchanger and a expansion tank- these do not require replacement right? Thanks.