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Take Advantage of Radiant Floor Heating With PEX Tubing
When radiant heating was first introduced in the early 20th century, systems tended to be hydronic. In other words, they employed heated water to heat surfaces. The tubing used was copper so if the copper tubing somehow broke, it rendered the entire radiant floor heating system inoperable. The cost of replacing the pipes tended to be prohibitive, especially since by this time, convection heating units were affordable.
The invention of PEX was a catalyst in bringing back radiant heating as a viable, affordable alternative for indoor climate control. PEX is a cross-linked polyethylene material made of medium to high-density modified polyethylene with improved properties. PEX tubing have been used in the United States since the 1980s. This has become the most widely used material in flexible plumbing piping. It is manufactured by the extrusion process in sizes from ?"-2" diameter to copper tube sizes and OD controlled (CTS-OD) dimensions. The thickness of the tube is based on Standard Dimension Ratio 9 (SDR 9) values. Such pipes are available in coils and straight lengths. This kind of tube has less effect on environment than other materials of its kind. Also, it is easier to repair when a leak occurs, unlike the copper tubing of the past. Radiant floor systems that were once left unrepaired could now be made fully operational again.
Some features that are labeled on the pipes include the manufacturer's name or trademark, standard to which it conforms (ASTM F876, F877, AWWA C904 and/or CSA B137.5), tube size and CTS, material designation code (PEX0006), pressure/temperature rating(s) and SDR9 and also ASTM fittings designations approved for use by the tubing manufacturer. In PEX tubing, an oxygen barrier must be used if there are ferrous components in a radiant heating system. If an oxygen barrier is not used in these systems, the ferrous components will rust.
Hydronic radiant heating systems with PEX tubing are reliable and easier to maintain. In order to take full advantage of what radiant heating has to offer, the system should be comprised of a boiler or hot water heater, manifolds, pumps, thermostat, PEX tubing, and either gypcrete or wood panels. Hydronic systems can be installed under any flooring type, though sometimes the height of the floors needs to be adjusted. With some recent inventions, the process has become much easier; as such products are lightweight and allow the tubes to be fitted into pre-cut wood panels.
With PEX tubing, anyone can take advantage of radiant floor heating systems in their homes. The benefits in terms of comfort, health, and money saving will make up for the cost of replacing your old convection air heating system.