reverse or direct return

Matt_21

with a reverse return in a 3 story apt bldg if every fan coil in each apartment has a circuit setter and three way valve. i would think the circuit setters, when adjusted for the coil gpm, would equal out the flow rates in the system.

jeff_51

alot of us

use reverse return just as a matter of course, but with the circut setters I think you are prolly right in thinking there isn't the need to use the reverse return to balance the system, the circut setters are there to do that for you. If you are repiping I would prolly reverse return anyway, but if not, leave it alone.

Dr Pepper

It's not about balance....

it's about pump head and HP. On any system, you need to provide head for the furthest complete circuit, supply and return, with direct return you add head to the closest circuits to balance it to the farthest FULL circuit. With reverse return, your furthest circuit is 1/2 the distance, and the setters are for very minor tweeking. If the job was engineered properly and you have the bright idea to save a buck on pipe, you will be in Deep Deep Do-Do next heating season. If you have a chance go to B&G or other good hydronics schools, you will see why this isn't something you "just change". Good Luck