mixing valves radiant floor heating

RoosterBoy

hi for radiant floor heating I know you have to run each loop at 300 foot max per loop useing 1/2 inch pex now I will have 1 zone 3 loops do I need a mixing valve for each loop or just one for each zone I add to my system

also is it better to staple the tubing directly under the floor or suspend it and put a reflective insulation under

thanks
Jason

tim smith

loops vs mixing

as long as the medium the tubing is in is the same, 1 mix valve. But if it's staple up and embedded then you would need two different temps.

ALH_3

Temp Requirements

If you are going to staple up or suspend the tubing you need hot (180F+) water so no mixing valve is required at all. I wouldn't recommend either of these methods. Use an extruded aluminum plate under the floor or gypcrete pour on top of the floor and an outdoor reset control for maximum performance, efficiency, and comfort. You'll eliminate overshooting the thermostat setpoint, increase the output of the floor, and decrease the response time. It will definitely cost more, but it will definitely work correctly. A compromise might be to use the extruded plate and a three-way mixing valve. You only need one mixing valve.

-Andrew

RoosterBoy

Unknown

extruded plates are awesome, but depending on the heatload they may not be necessary.

course it doesn't sound like a heat load is done here

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ALH_3

Agreed

I agree. Depending on his climate and how he is planning on using the floor the plates may not be necessary. I keep assuming everyone lives in montana.

In a northern climate I would be very hesitant to use the staple up method.

-Andrew

Unknown

I should have qualified that further. Lightweight plates might be adequate for lower heatloads.. it's a rare situation that we feel suspended tube or naked staple up is a good choice. If loads are that low I'd opt for ceiling first if possible.. usually.

What is Barba's catchphrase? "It depends"? heh..

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eleft_4

Look and Learn

Here are some basic learning documents to help with radiant details.

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