Installing pipes in concrete floor-radiant heat
#1
10-24-10, 06:56 PM
Join Date: Oct 2010
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Installing pipes in concrete floor-radiant heat
I am adding a 24'X40' garage and would like to have geothermal heating in the new garage floor. I don't know what type of pipe or size to use nor do I have any idea about how to lay the pipe out and then pour the concrete over it. Someone told me that the pipe should be 12 inches apart but that it should be 6 inches between the pipes in front of where the garage doors are located. Do I install the pipe so that the fluid must travel the whole length and snake all around the floor or should I have a feeder pipe that runs the fluid through parallel lines as it flows across the floor. How far down should the pipe be in the concrete floor? Any information would be appreciated as I don't really know much about how to install the plumbing in the concrete floor so that in the future I can use a geothermal heating system.
#2
10-24-10, 09:09 PM
You have lots of reading ahead of you.
Loop length and pipe size depend on fluid. Are you planning on using a glycol to prevent freezing.
You will need a 3 to 4 loop manifold as you don't want a single 1000 foot loop.
12 inches o/c is ok, but if your thinking about geo later putting them closer together can reduce the water temp needed to heat the space.
You really want to get all the facts and information together before you start something like this. There are many possible mistakes that can be made that can cost some serious money.
Loop length and pipe size depend on fluid. Are you planning on using a glycol to prevent freezing.
You will need a 3 to 4 loop manifold as you don't want a single 1000 foot loop.
12 inches o/c is ok, but if your thinking about geo later putting them closer together can reduce the water temp needed to heat the space.
You really want to get all the facts and information together before you start something like this. There are many possible mistakes that can be made that can cost some serious money.
#3
10-25-10, 04:24 AM
Wirsbo has decent info online. Google up an installation manual for tips.
Consider getting a quote or two on the pipe laying job though. You can DIY the above ground stuff later.. You wouldnt want to have problems (kinked pipe during the mesh lifting as you pour etc) inside a 4" slab (I went 6").
Insulation under the slab is important. Run the supply side across the door opening first. 6" spacing around the perimeter is the norm (2 or 3 runs) then 12" .. but if you're using a lower temp supply then design changes might be required like TO said.
Consider getting a quote or two on the pipe laying job though. You can DIY the above ground stuff later.. You wouldnt want to have problems (kinked pipe during the mesh lifting as you pour etc) inside a 4" slab (I went 6").
Insulation under the slab is important. Run the supply side across the door opening first. 6" spacing around the perimeter is the norm (2 or 3 runs) then 12" .. but if you're using a lower temp supply then design changes might be required like TO said.
