How to make a radiant heating system. Pros and cons of radiant heating in a private house Heating systems for private houses radiation schemes


Arrangement of the heating system is the most expensive item in the estimate of capital repairs or construction. The operational characteristics and the owners' energy costs in the winter depend on the correct installation and the characteristics of all elements of this object.

The radiant heating system is gradually replacing the aging tee wiring. This is due to a number of its advantages. How to equip such a wiring yourself, as well as what are its main features, the master must find out before starting the installation.

general characteristics

Autonomous heating in a private house can be performed using various wiring. The beam system is also called the collector system. Each radiator in the building is connected to a distribution manifold. A separate pipe is supplied to the heater. Each of them returns its own pipe to the collector. Radiators with this connection are a separate element. They are independent of other heating devices in the network and are supplied to the collector in parallel.


The collector is a dimensional device. He is responsible for supplying the coolant to each individual circuit. If it is necessary to repair one battery, the heating system continues to work in the same mode. Only one radiator is cut off.

Individual heating according to the tee scheme involves fewer pipes. However, the installation costs pay off during the operation of the system. The positive economic effect from the use of beam wiring in a large house or cottage with two or more floors is especially pronounced.

Advantages and disadvantages

Certain features are characteristic of the radial distribution of the heating system. The pros and cons of such an organization need to be considered before installation. The disadvantages include a greater number of pipes and fittings. This significantly increases the cost of repairs. The tee circuit is much cheaper to install. Also, a large number of connections, if connected incorrectly, can lead to frequent system breakdowns.

However, all these disadvantages pale against the background of the advantages of the radial heating system. In this case, the system quickly pays for its installation costs. The ability to regulate heating in each room significantly reduces energy costs. When organizing such a system, many joints and bends are obtained. The master has easy access to them. Therefore, when carrying out repairs, this factor greatly facilitates the work.

The radiant tubes can be hidden under the floor, in the wall or just behind the curtains. A properly planned scheme allows you to remove unattractive communications from the field of vision. The tee circuit does not provide such an opportunity for home owners.

System elements

The radial distribution of the heating system consists of several mandatory elements. The main one is the boiler. When calculating its power, the area of ​​the premises, as well as the heat loss of the building, are taken into account.

The circuit includes a circulation pump. There are systems with natural circulation of the coolant. However, they are less effective. Today, almost all radiant heating schemes include a pump. It makes the heated liquid move along the circuits at a certain speed. This way it is possible to maintain an optimal heating mode of the room.

The manifold is a distribution unit. He is responsible for optimal nutrition of all circuits. This element can be composed of various control and shut-off equipment. The presented devices are installed in a special cabinet. This allows you to protect the equipment and hide it from prying eyes.

Circulation type

The radiant heating system of a private house can use the principle of natural or forced circulation. In the first case, the coolant is distributed through pipes and radiators by gravity. In this case, it is required to install large diameter pipes. It is a simpler but less efficient system. It is only suitable for a small one-story house that is not supplied with electricity.


In modern construction, beam systems are used in combination with a pump. It provides forced circulation of the coolant. The pump is installed on the supply or return circuit. It works with a certain power. Such a device is necessary for the heating system of a large or two-story cottage.

Due to the mass of advantages, as well as the acceptable cost of circulation pumps, today this installation option is used almost everywhere.

Design

The calculation of the radiant heating system is carried out at the design stage. To do this, you need to draw a detailed diagram with dimensions on paper. All elements are indicated on it. If necessary, the drawing can be ordered from a special organization.

First, you need to assess the existing features of the room. The rooms should not be finished. It is best to hide the pipes in the floor under the screed. The plan also indicates radiators, their location (on the wall under the window). The number of sections and their internal volume depend on the material of the convector, as well as the thickness of its walls. In accordance with the parameters specified by the manufacturer, the need for the volume of the coolant for each battery is calculated.

Radial autonomous heating in a private house is characterized by some additional heat loss. The heated liquid is supplied to the batteries through pipes, the length of which will be greater than in the tee circuit. This feature must be taken into account in the calculations.

The plan indicates the places for laying pipes. Manometers, thermometers, shut-off and control valves are added to the equipment. Before installation, you should carefully consider all the elements of the main and additional equipment. The sequence of their installation is also indicated in the diagram.

Collector selection

The radiant heating system includes a collector (comb). This element looks like a pipe. It has nozzles for the inlet and outlet of the coolant. For the beam scheme, two types of collectors should be installed.

The first of these will be the inlet comb. A pump is connected to it, as well as a coolant distribution valve. It can be three- or two-way. The valve includes a thermometer. It is installed in the collector housing. The device transmits information to the valve. It opens or closes the damper, mixing hot liquid into the circuit.

The outlet collector collects the cooled heat carrier, which is returned to the boiler. The heater heats it up again. Additionally, a balancing flow controller can be installed on this branch pipe. The collector group ensures the stability of the system. She is responsible for optimizing and balancing the heating of the coolant in the system.

Choice of pipes

Individual heating, which is mounted according to the radial scheme, requires the correct selection of pipes. Communications must be flexible enough to avoid multiple connections. XLPE pipes are best suited for this purpose. Such items are sold in bays.


Polyethylene pipes that are suitable for a radiant heating system must have an airtight layer. Air enters the system with conventional varieties. It leads to the development of corrosion of metal elements, quick equipment failure.

¾ ”pipes are used to connect the collector to the boiler. Radiators can be connected to the comb with ½ "communications. This is possible provided that a circulation pump is used in the system. Otherwise, the pipe diameter may be larger.

Installation features

The radiant heating system can be installed by the owners of a private house. For this, it is necessary to allocate a separate room for the arrangement of the boiler room.

After installing the heater, a comb is mounted immediately after it. The equipment should be kept in a protective box. The collector must be easily accessible. A pressure gauge and a thermometer are installed at the outlet of the coolant. Allow to stabilize the pressure in the system, the Mayevsky valve and other safety devices.

Shut-off valves allow, if necessary, to carry out preventive maintenance or repair of equipment. After installation, the equipment is checked. If everything is normal, the pipes are poured into the screed.

User reviews

The radiant heating system, user reviews of which are presented in large numbers, is considered today one of the best principles for organizing communications, in their opinion. It allows you to reduce the cost of paying for energy resources in the cold season. The effectiveness of such a scheme will be high if the construction of the house was carried out in accordance with all building codes.


If the owners used high-quality materials for insulation, there are no large heat losses in their house, the collector circuit allows you to optimize energy costs. Otherwise, such a system will not be effective. The tangible effect of the use of such a scheme is determined in large or two-story houses.

Having considered what a radiant heating system is, as well as the features of its organization, each owner of a private house will be able to equip such a scheme on his own.

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Features of the collector wiring device

The principle of operation of the system is based on the separation of coolant flows. This is possible thanks to the installation of a manifold. Independent pipe circuits ("rays", "branches", "loops") go from it to the heating devices. The collector itself is a piece of pipe with nozzles, one of which is inlet. When installing thermostatic equipment, you can achieve different temperature regimes in different rooms of the house. For this, valves with electric drives are installed. They regulate the flow rate of the coolant. If the pressure in the system exceeds the permissible level, the air can be vented through special air valves.


The pipes leading from the collector to the heating devices are usually laid in the floor screed. Options - disguise under skirting boards, behind a suspended ceiling structure. Almost no elements remain in sight, which has a positive effect on the appearance of the rooms. The system uses pipes of the same diameter, they form "loops" from the collectors to the radiators. If necessary, a separate circuit can be turned off and repaired without interrupting the operation of the entire heating system.

Where is the best place to use the radial distribution of the heating system

This type of wiring is ideal for multi-storey buildings. Also, the beam system is installed in houses of a large area with many rooms. It is quite difficult to install, it is necessary to equip collectors on each floor, and the structural elements have to be mounted in a cement screed. The difficulties and high cost of the installation pay off:

  • the collector system has good heat transfer;
  • no unnecessary losses of heat energy;
  • all equipment works more efficiently than when installing a tee distribution.

What elements does the collector system consist of?

Boiler. The central element, as in any other heating system, is the boiler. From it, the heated coolant is fed through pipes to the radiators. When choosing a heat generator, it is important to correctly calculate the required power, taking into account the heat loss of a particular house.


Pump. It is installed for forced circulation of water in the system. When choosing a pump, you need to be guided by the dimensions of the pipes, materials and features of the operation of heating devices. An important parameter when choosing a pump is the pumping rate of the coolant, in second place is the power of the device.

Collector. For its external resemblance to a ridge, the structural element is also called a comb. This is a distribution system that is installed to transfer the coolant to all heating devices. The collector can be fitted with shut-off and control devices that will allow you to control the flow rate of the coolant in each "loop". By equipping the comb with automatic ventilation systems and thermostats, you can achieve maximum heating performance with minimum energy consumption.

Manifold cabinets. These are the structures in which the combs are installed. There are a variety of models - from the simplest hinged boxes to "invisible" cabinets, which are built into the walls and "masked" with finishing materials so that they become almost invisible in the interior. The manifold cabinets contain the most important elements of the beam system - the comb itself, shut-off valves, pipelines.

What to focus on when choosing a collector (comb)

The combs may differ depending on the material from which they are made, the number of contours, the type of additional elements. Devices are made from the following materials:

  • steel;
  • copper;
  • brass;
  • polymers.

There can be 2-12 contours depending on the model. The peculiarity of the comb is that, if necessary, you can add additional contours.

By design, collectors are:

  • simple, consisting only of basic elements, without any additional regulating equipment;
  • improved, in which the manufacturer installs automation, sensors and other additional elements.

Simple designs are conventional tubes with branches and connection holes. The improved ones can include temperature and pressure sensors, thermostats, electronic valves, mixers.

When choosing a collector, you should decide on the material and design of the devices, and also take into account the following nuances:

  • comb throughput;
  • number of contours;
  • the maximum allowable pressure at which the manifold is capable of operating;
  • power consumption for the operation of the device;
  • reputation of the manufacturer in the heating equipment market.

Radial distribution of the heating system with natural and forced circulation

In collector heating, forced circulation is mainly used, but there are cases when it makes sense not to spend money on installing additional equipment and equip a gravity system.


and the installation of natural circulation heating uses large diameter pipes and an expansion tank. It must be installed at the highest point in the building. The absence of pumps, automation and other expensive elements allows you to significantly save on heating equipment. This is a good option for country cottages. Such a system is less efficient than with forced circulation, but much cheaper. It can be installed in houses that are not connected to the mains.

Equipment for forced circulation of the coolant costs a significant amount. Until a decade ago, many homeowners simply could not afford it. But every year, structural elements are becoming more accessible and therefore more popular. To equip the system, it is required to install not only a circulation pump, but also automation, shut-off, control valves, consisting of sensors, taps, thermal heads, air vents. It is easier to design heating: less importance is attached to the geometry of the premises, the system works perfectly regardless of the length of the "beams" and the hydraulic resistance of the pipeline.

Is it worth doing manifold heating wiring

Let's start with the disadvantages. They must be taken into account when deciding on the choice of the type of distribution of heating pipes. The collector system is considered expensive due to the material consumption. In addition, you need to find a place to equip cabinets, which is sometimes difficult. If the costs and the need to allocate space for the collectors are not intimidating, then the homeowner receives the following benefits:

  • Stable operation of the heating system. The equipment is not exposed to water hammer, which increases the service life of the radiators.
  • Simplified design. The system uses pipes of the same diameter, which eliminates unnecessary calculations.
  • Convenient renovation. If damage appears in any area, this circuit is simply turned off and the problems are rectified. The rest of the "rays" work in the same mode, the house maintains an acceptable temperature.
  • Concealed installation. The pipes are placed in the floors, walls or ceilings, and the comb and the automation in the manifold cabinet. Heating elements do not spoil the interior.

Whether to opt for a beam wiring or prefer the good old tee - it's up to you. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages, calculate the costs of installing different types of systems and start designing. Warmth to your home!

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Collector (beam) heating system of a private house

Distribution manifold for underfloor heating, assy.

Design and principle of operation

One of the main elements of the collector heating system is the collector (comb, collector block), which distributes the coolant coming from the boiler over several circuits. The number of circuits corresponds to the number of taps on the collector, how many taps are on the collector, there are so many radiators in the house.

The collector allows you to evenly distribute the coolant to each heating device, due to which all radiators are heated to the same temperature. Uniform heating is ensured by the fact that each radiator has its own supply and return lines.

The design of the collector consists of several branches and one inlet / outlet through which the heat carrier enters / returns from / to the heat source. The distribution manifold is often equipped with a circulation pump, automatic air vent, flow meters and thermostats.

Manifold Cabinet Applications

When installing a radial heating system in a private house, it is recommended to place the collector itself, the circulation pump, shut-off and control valves in the manifold cabinet, which hides the equipment and numerous pipes and makes the room more aesthetic. In addition, it allows you to protect equipment from external mechanical stress. The pipes are led out through the lower, open part of the cabinet. The manifold cabinet is installed in the same place as the separate manifold, i.e. mounted on the wall, if possible, in the center of the house.

Control cabinet with comb, Wilo circulation pump, thermostats and electrical ...

Note! Often, when installing a collector heating system, it is not a factory collector that is used, but a self-made one, made by hand. As a rule, for its manufacture, polypropylene tees are used, which are connected to each other using short lengths of polypropylene pipe of a suitable diameter. The result is a collector that performs exactly the same role as the factory one. The only disadvantage of a home-made collector, which is not critical for radiator heating, is additional hydraulic resistance, which is formed due to an uneven inner surface (unequal inner section of the tee and pipe sections).

For the above reason, homemade collectors are not recommended when installing the external circuit of a ground source heat pump, because For geothermal systems, the most important point is the hydraulic characteristics of the system, the slightest decrease in which can lead to a decrease in the power of the heat pump.

In a collector-beam heating system, the most common material for the pipeline laid from the distribution manifold to heating devices is 16 mm metal-plastic. Reinforced-plastic pipes bend, they are easy to lay under the floor.

If, after pressure testing the system, the reinforced-plastic pipes are poured with a concrete screed, they must be wrapped in thermal insulation, right down to the collector itself. This will avoid damaging them during thermal expansion. expanding pipes will "rub" against the insulation, and not against the edge of the screed.

Important! The pipeline should not be laid through doorways, otherwise, during the installation of the threshold of the interior door, the pipe may be accidentally damaged when drilling. If the pipeline is laid through a load-bearing wall in a new house (which will shrink in the future), then the hole in the wall must be equipped with a sleeve that will protect the pipeline from damage.

Diagram of the collector heating system of a private house.

Advantages of a collector heating system

Fast, even heating of all radiators. Each heating device has its own supply pipeline, thus, a coolant with the same temperature comes to all radiators.

Aesthetics. In most cases, the wiring of the collector-ray heating system is mounted under the floor, so only the radiators themselves and short sections of the supply and return pipelines protruding from under the floor are visible in the room.

Convenience when troubleshooting. If one of the radiators leaks, the supply or return line was accidentally damaged, or there are problems with the fittings, then to carry out repair work, it is enough to shut off the coolant supply to the problem area on the distribution manifold. At the same time, only one radiator stops working, all other elements of the system continue to function.

The ability to adjust / disable the temperature in individual rooms. If no one permanently resides in some rooms of the house, for example, guests come once a month, then during the absence of guests, a minimum temperature of 10-15 ° C can be set in such rooms so as not to freeze the system. Thus, there is no need to heat the "extra" coolant.

Distribution manifold with Wilo circulation pump.

disadvantages

High price. The prime cost of the collector heating system includes a large number of pipes (each radiator has its own supply and return), as well as the collector itself and the collector cabinet.

High heating costs during operation. Due to the large number of pipes, the volume of the coolant in a collector-beam heating system is greater than in a two-pipe system, which does not allow saving on heating. The more coolant, the more fuel will be required to heat it.

Video

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Radial heating wiring diagram in a private house

The radiant heating system is also called collector. This is due to the fact that the distribution of the coolant is carried out by special combs (collectors), which are directly or through a mixing unit connected to the boiler. There are many expensive elements in this circuit, so such a pleasure is not cheap. But sometimes, if you have a large house with several floors, installing radiant heating is the only option, so sometimes you don't have to choose.

What is a radiant heating system

In a conventional heating system, the coolant flows from the boiler into the supply line and passes through all heat exchangers in turn. The radiant heating system differs in that the water from the boiler first enters the distribution manifold, and then to each heating device. This comb is called a manifold. The same thing happens with the return flow, which first comes to the collector, and then to the boiler (see How to install a solid fuel boiler, piping).

The peculiarity is that from the collector to each battery there is a separate ring (two pipes - supply and return), which can be adjusted or turned off independently of the others. In this case, all manipulations are carried out through the collector box.

Radiant heating is ideal for large houses or apartments. In such a system, water at the same temperature comes to all heat exchangers - a slight difference may be due to the different length of the rings. In addition, you can combine different types of heating (conventional radiators and underfloor heating).

What pipes can be used for routing the circuit

In the radial heating system of a private house and apartment, it is customary to use only polymer pipes:

  • metal-plastic;
  • polypropylene;
  • polyethylene.

Most installers have a preference for cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). Such pipes are most often red in color, they are not reinforced with foil, and in order to reduce the degree of thermal expansion of polyethylene, this material is crosslinked.

Crosslinking is a chemical process that increases the number of bonds between polyethylene molecules. Thanks to this, the material becomes stronger, while remaining flexible.

PEX pipes have 100% shape memory, which means that they always tend to return to their original position if you bent them. Therefore, special attention must be paid to the fasteners. The pipes are sold in coils, which is very convenient, since a whole piece of the pipeline can be laid from the collector to the heat exchanger. This is important, because the editing is always done in a hidden way. Where necessary, the pipes are connected with press fittings. The connection reliability is very high.

Installation rules for radiant heating

As a rule, the pipes are laid in the floor screed. To reduce heat loss and leave a little space for thermal expansion, shirts made of expanded polyethylene are put on the lines - this is such a heater. During the installation, you need to try to ensure that communications go in groups. So you will know exactly where the pipes are, so as not to punch them in further work, for example, if you need to drill holes for attaching a ladder or installing a toilet.

There are no particular difficulties in pipe-laying. You simply guide the ring to the radiator installation site. For such heating systems, you need to buy batteries with a bottom connection. Literally 10 cm of pipe will come out of the screed. Everything looks very neat.

What should be in the collector box

You can place the collector box in any convenient place. Pipes from each battery and from the boiler are drawn into it. Two combs are installed in the collector box - one for the supply, the second for the return. If necessary, there can be several pairs of dies. For example, the first distributes the coolant to the batteries, and the second to the heated floors.

The collector comb has holes for piping, and there are holes for installing equipment:

  • flow meters;
  • servos;
  • air vents: their task is simple - to remove air locks.

A flow meter is a device that can be used to regulate the hydraulic resistance of each branch of the circuit. It is installed on the feed comb. Flowmeters can be omitted if all rings are the same length, but this is extremely rare. Without balancing, the heating system will not work as it should. Some branches may be left without a coolant.

A servo drive is an electrical device that shuts off the coolant supply to the ring (or vice versa), depending on the readings of the temperature sensors installed in each room. Temperature sensor and servo are wired. Also, a special unit can be installed in the collector box, which receives a radio signal from the thermostat and transmits it via wires to the servo drive.

All solid fuel gas generating boilers operate on the principle of afterburning pyrolysis gases.

The standard connection diagram of the Galan boiler is no different from the piping of heating elements.

There are no moving parts in the servo. A polymer capsule is installed there, which contains the working substance. Copper wire is wound around the capsule. When current is applied to the winding, it heats the working substance. As a result, thermal expansion occurs, the capsule expands and blocks the flow.

In the radial circuit of the heating system for underfloor heating, in addition to all of the above, a mixing unit is installed in front of the collector. It lowers the flow temperature by mixing the return flow into it. As you know, in low-temperature systems, water should not be hotter than 40 degrees.

Advantages and disadvantages of the beam scheme

Let's start with the disadvantages of the radial heating circuit. It is only one and consists in the high price of equipment. A good manifold, like any other component, is expensive. The wiring will require more pipes than in simple systems, in addition, they still need to be insulated.

The use of solar systems will allow converting solar energy into thermal energy.

If you live in a high-rise building, then sealing panel seams will significantly reduce heat loss.

But, by spending money, you get the following benefits:

  • pipes are laid in a hidden method and they are not visible;
  • there are practically no connections;
  • the ability to adjust the hydraulic resistance of each ring separately.

In addition, it becomes possible to introduce new technologies. For example, adjust the temperature in each room from your smartphone or computer.

conclusions

As you already understood, ray wiring is not cheap. Such schemes are mainly used in large cottages. For a private house, and even more so for an apartment, you can find options that are much more budgetary. Thus, if you are not forced by circumstances, then the collector wiring can be easily replaced with a conventional two-pipe.

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Perimetral or radial distribution of the heating system: what to choose?

As a variety of methods for laying heating pipes for two-pipe horizontal systems in modern apartment buildings and private houses, the radial distribution of the heating system has a number of indisputable advantages. Each circuit of the system with such a pipe layout is separately connected to the heating manifold, which allows you to set an individual operating mode for it that meets the criterion for the comfort of a person in a specific area of ​​the room.

Heating pipes laid in the thickness of a concrete screed or under a wooden floor on logs must be reliable, eliminating (or minimizing) the likelihood of leaks, deterioration of throughput and other malfunctions.

Wiring diagrams of modern horizontal heating systems

Modern apartment buildings and private cottages of any number of storeys are increasingly equipped with horizontal heating systems. A necessary element of such a scheme is one or several (in an apartment building - in each entrance) vertical two-pipe risers with branches / inputs to separate rooms / apartments on each floor. Further laying of pipelines is carried out in a "horizontal" way.

Arranging such systems, builders invariably face the problem of the difficulty of laying heating pipes to radiators. The pipelines of vertical systems, laid down the walls from top to bottom, did not particularly interfere with the tenants. Horizontal pipes, laid openly along the walls, become a factor that hinders the normal operation of premises, and do not fit well into their interiors. Therefore, various methods of horizontal hidden laying are used.

Branched dead-end wiring with pipes in a screed

Layout of pipelines with a branched dead-end scheme.

The minimum pipe lengths and hydraulic resistances of the circuit are leveled by mutual crossing of pipelines, leading to an increase in the thickness of the screed (each centimeter of it costs from 40 rubles / m2).

Perimetral heating system

  • Dead-end scheme with pipelines in a screed or under a skirting board.

Scheme of piping for a two-pipe dead-end system.

The absence of crossing pipes in the scheme is leveled by the need to make holes in the walls (in the above scheme, you need to drill five holes).

  • Layout of pipelines according to the scheme with passing water movement (Tikhelman's scheme).

Layout of pipelines according to the Tichelman scheme.

Here, the first radiator of the heating circuit has the shortest "flow" length and the longest "return" length, the last radiator - vice versa. The hydraulic resistance experienced by the coolant when flowing around the circuit devices is constant, which makes it possible to balance any number of radiators in the branch.

Collector-beam wiring of the heating system

Piping layout for a collector-beam system.

The prevalence of this scheme is constantly growing. Pipes here are laid in the floor screed in pairs ("supply" plus "return"), approaching each radiator from the collectors (respectively, "supply" and "return"). The advantage of the scheme is ease of installation (no crossing of pipes and wall holes). The disadvantage is the increased costs due to the high consumption of pipes and additional costs for collectors.

An additional advantage of the beam pattern is the use of small diameter pipes. The apartment (floor of a private house) will require the use of pipes d = 25 and d = 32 mm for a perimetric wiring diagram. Accordingly, the thickness of the screed, the diameter of the tees that connect the radiators will increase. The cost of such an element is commensurate with the price of a pipe.

The use of beam routing, which increases the length of the pipes, has the ultimate benefit of reducing their diameter.

General requirements for the installation of beam wiring

With collector-beam wiring, a common method of laying pipes in the floor in a screed, the thickness of which is 50-80 mm. Plywood is laid on top, covered with a finishing floor covering (parquet, linoleum). This thickness of the screed is quite sufficient for the free "monolithing" of the intra-apartment (intra-house) radial distribution of the heating system. It is possible to lay pipes outside along the walls under decorative skirting boards, which will inevitably increase the length of the pipelines. Known options for laying pipes for beam wiring in the space of the hemmed (suspended) ceiling, in the grooves.

Connecting radiators with a collector-beam scheme.

Used metal-plastic or cross-linked polyethylene pipes (PEX-pipes), laid in a corrugated pipe or in thermal insulation. PEX pipes have an undeniable advantage here. According to SNiP, only permanent joints can be “monolithic” into concrete. PEX pipes are connected by means of tension fittings, which are permanent connections. Reinforced-plastic pipes use compression fittings with union nuts. "Monolithing" them means violating SNiP. Each detachable pipe connection must be accessible for maintenance (tightening).

Even without fittings, not every reinforced plastic pipe is uniquely suitable for laying in a floor screed. Manufacturers' products suffer from a serious defect: layers of aluminum and polyethylene delaminate under the influence of the repeatedly changing temperature of the coolant. After all, metal and plastic have different coefficients of volumetric expansion. Therefore, the adhesive connecting them must be:

  • internally strong (cohesive);
  • adhesive to aluminum and polyethylene;
  • flexible;
  • elastic;
  • heat resistant.

These requirements are not met by all adhesives, even of well-known European manufacturers of metal-plastic pipes, which delaminate over time, the inner layer of polyethylene in such a pipe "collapses", reducing its cross-section. The normal operation of the system is disrupted, and it is almost impossible to find the place of the malfunction - usually they "sin" on malfunctions of thermostats, pumps and other products with moving parts.

In light of the above, we recommend that readers pay attention to the VALTEC metal-plastic pipes, which use the American glue of the DSM concern, which ensures the strength of the metal / plastic connection, adhesion and the complete absence of delamination.

Manifold cabinets and blocks

In an apartment with horizontal radial heating distribution (on the floors of private houses), distribution manifolds (supply and "return") are arranged, collecting all supply and return pipelines at their exits. They are placed in metal cabinets of special design, often built into the partitions of sanitary facilities and opening inside them. Installation of distributor collectors in specially arranged wall niches is also possible. Quite often the collector unit is combined with the heat energy metering unit in one collector cabinet.

Collector cabinet with heat metering unit.

Collectors can be complete, representing sections of thick pipes with branch pipes, or assembled on tees. The material for these devices can be:

  • plastic;
  • nickel-plated brass;
  • copper;
  • stainless steel.

Many well-known manufacturers of heating equipment (VALTEC, etc.) produce ready-made manifold blocks that combine supply and return manifolds, manual adjustment valves (on the supply manifold), thermostatic valves (on the return manifold), automatic air vents, drain valves and mounting brackets.

Complete manifold block.

The task of individually adjusting the thermal regime of each single-radiator branch of the collector-beam heating system is solved by tuning valves with built-in flow meters. Branches are obtained of different lengths, and the coolant tends to flow in the shortest path with minimum hydraulic resistance. It flows around short branches more intensively, warming up the radiators installed there more strongly.

Adjusting valves on the supply manifold change the flow of water (antifreeze), narrowing their nominal passages in short circuits, and expanding in long ones. Adjustment is a painstaking process, and the adjustment valve is not intended to quickly shut off or open the coolant flow through the circuits. This function is performed by thermostatic valves.

Thermal valves on the manifold - "return" - are valves that smoothly shut off the flow manually or automatically. The radiant heating system is easily hydraulically balanced.

Combined heating piping layout

Often, not only one heating device is installed in the room, but several. It is irrational to provide a separate two-pipe loop-branch to each radiator with collector-beam wiring. It is better to lay a separate branch to each room, which will bypass several heating devices inside the room, realizing a dead-end or passing scheme.

Combined heating system wiring diagram.

Calculate such a system as a ray system. Branches supplying several radiators with a coolant are subjected to a separate calculation as dead-end or passing ones. In modern systems, radiators are equipped with thermal valves (thermostats), adjustable by users to different temperatures, based on the current requirements for the comfort of being in the room. It becomes difficult to maintain a stable indoor temperature.

It turns out that you can get rid of instability, while simultaneously reducing the cost of connecting radiators, connecting them according to the so-called. "Pass-through scheme".

"Pass-through" connection diagram of radiators.

The thermal valve is installed only on the first radiator in the circuit, regulating the flow rate of the coolant for all sequentially connected heating devices. They are perceived as one radiator. Balancing difficulties will arise with multi-section devices (10 or more sections).

Automatic collector-beam system

The supply of coolant to radiators included in the radial distribution can be made automatically controlled. In this case, instead of the plastic manual control cover (position 4 in the Fig. “Complete manifold block”), a small-sized electromechanical servo drive is installed on the return manifold thermal valves (position 2 in the Fig. "Complete manifold block"), connected with a cable to an analog thermostat or controller. Radiators are connected to heating pipes without any fittings at all (ball valves can be installed).

Thermal valve servo drive dimensions.

This arrangement has an increased capital cost while providing an increased level of comfort. The air temperature desired by the user can be set from the control panel of the room thermostat, the signals of which are processed by servo drives on the thermo-valves of the “return” collector. The system can be controlled by a so-called chronothermostat, which allows the user to set a temperature control program for a week with differentiation by day of the week and time of day.

Conclusion

A heating system with a collector-beam wiring of pipes provides the user with the possibility of hydraulic balancing and individual adjustment of the operating modes of heating devices. A slight increase in the length of the pipes with radial wiring is deliberately compensated for by a decrease in their diameter and ease of installation.

Features of the radiant heating system

Heating of a private house »Heating installation» Heating systems schemes

The beam routing is a two-pipe system

Any heating system is a complex of heating equipment and pipes. And in this they are all alike. The only difference is the strapping and wiring diagram. Let's consider a radiant heating system as the most efficient one today.

General about heating systems

There are two main types of system - one-pipe and two-pipe. The first is the pipe to which the heating devices (radiators) are connected in sequential order. Nice and simple scheme with one drawback - the last radiator in a row is always cold.

In a two-pipe system, this cannot be, because a separate branch is connected from the coolant supply pipe to each radiator, providing the circuit with hot water. This allows the heat to be evenly distributed throughout the entire space of the house.

There are also two subspecies here:

  1. Scheme with parallel connection of heating devices.
  2. Beam (collector) circuit.

We will talk about the latter. This system requires a lot of materials. Moreover, not only pipes, but also valves, since each radiator will have to supply two lines at once - the supply of the coolant and the return. And each line must be equipped with valves - both at the inlet and at the outlet.

Why such difficulties? This simplifies future repairs. If you need it, you can turn off one battery without touching all the heating.

Of course, the initial investment here is quite large, but such a system works much better, especially when it comes to the natural circulation of the coolant.

Design features

The most important element of such a circuit is the manifold, or comb. It is a connection of pipes at one point, from which all pipelines are routed through highways to heating devices. The simplest version of this design is a pipe, from the side of which branch pipes extend. Their number is equal to the number of lines or radiators. Such a pipe is very similar to a comb, which is why it is called a comb.

On the opposite side or below, another branch pipe is installed, which is intended for the branch through which the coolant flows. By the way, the main pipe of the collector and the hot water supply pipe must be of the same diameter. Outgoing pipes should be smaller in diameter. A prerequisite is the installation of valves or ball valves on each line.

This is what a typical collector looks like.

This was the top supply manifold. There is exactly the same lower one, to which the return lines from each radiator fit. Very often, if the system uses forced circulation of the coolant, the upper and lower distributors are combined into one unit:

  • First, it simplifies the design by minimizing the size of the assembly.
  • Secondly, little space is required to install such a comb.
  • Thirdly, it becomes possible to effectively regulate the temperature inside the system and each heating device separately.

If the house is large enough, then you will need to split the entire heating circuit into several sections. Remember not to install collectors in series - only in parallel.

More recently, combs were made by hand from metal pipes of the required diameter. Now, manufacturers of heating equipment offer a wide range of ready-made collectors that can provide an efficient distribution of circuits depending on the number of heating devices. And here it is important to choose the right comb not only by the number of branches, but also by their diameter and boiler power. Therefore, some knowledge is simply necessary.

Plus, modern distributors are made from different materials. For example, from brass, stainless or tool steel, polymer textures and others. Of course, each material has its own price, respectively, and the cost of products will be different. Therefore, each consumer is looking for what he needs. However, any kind is worthy of attention, because the quality of modern products is at the highest level.

When deciding how to heat their own home, the owner can choose from a variety of heating technologies. They have in common a similar set of structural elements, which includes a boiler, a pipe system and heating devices that directly heat the room.

There are differences in the schemes for connecting pipelines, one of its options is a radiant heating system, the characteristics and construction rules of which will be discussed in the article.

  • Powerful advantages of beam routing
  • The principle of the organization of the beam scheme
    • Choosing a circulation pump
    • Circulation pump installation rules
    • Is it possible without a pump?
    • Choosing a distribution manifold
  • Beam wiring diagram
    • What should be done before installation?
    • Installation rules for beam routing
  • Radial wiring and underfloor heating
  • For wooden houses
  • Analysis of the arguments "for" and "against"
  • Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Powerful advantages of beam routing

The main task of the heating system is to replace the heat that the building loses due to differences between the internal and external air temperatures, as well as due to the different degrees of thermal conductivity of the external walls.

In practice, you can connect all the heating devices together by the following methods:

  • tee connection;
  • beam(collector) connection, when a separate pair of pipes for direct and return supply of the heat carrier is supplied to each heating device with the help of a collector.

Tee or perimeter pipe connections are cheaper. But due to the fact that the devices are connected to each other and connected by a pipeline to a single riser, the system will need to be completely disconnected and released from the coolant to repair a separate radiator or section. Or equip with bypasses and shut-off valves, which will significantly increase the cost of organizing heating.

Image gallery

An indisputable argument in favor of the device of a radiant heating system is its efficiency, which is much higher than the circuits with a tee wiring.

The distribution of the radial type of heating is carried out on floors. It is arranged mainly with a lower connection to the devices

The construction of heating systems based on the radial principle became possible thanks to the development and implementation of reinforced metal-plastic and polypropylene pipes

Pipes are supplied to each heating device in the form of rays emanating from a distribution manifold - a collector

The parallel principle of connecting the devices to the pipeline ensures practically equal temperature in them. The difference between the supply and return temperatures is also minimal, which significantly reduces the load on the system

In the collector system, there can be only one ring connected to the manifold, or several secondary rings, into which the coolant is supplied through the primary ring

For normal operation, the system is equipped with at least one circulation pump, although it is recommended to install them on each of the rings. Air vent, pressure gauge and pressure relief valve are installed

The collector is placed in a closet, in two-story houses on the floor, one collector is installed, which are connected to each other by risers

With traditional perimeter wiring, the entire pipeline is most often installed in an open way, less often in a hidden one. Radiant heating systems are mainly installed in walls or floors, because a large number of pipes laid on top of structures negatively affects the interior.

Concealed installation is carried out by a system of pipes for underfloor heating, which, in accordance with the technological specifics, is arranged according to the radial scheme. The beam pipeline to the heating devices is also laid in the floor screed in a hidden way, because this is better for technological and architectural reasons.

The assembly of the pipeline according to the beam scheme will cost significantly more than the installation of the system along the perimeter method. However, due to the specifics of such a wiring, the heated coolant is supplied to all points at the same time.

A large number of pipes when using the beam method of piping assembly can ruin the interior. Therefore, all heating communications fit into the floor or walls. At the same time, all connections remain on the surface, so there is practically no risk of leakage under the screed. With a tee system, this cannot be done, because when the joints wear out, walls and floors will have to be broken.

In order to reduce the consumption of pipes, pipelines assembled according to the radial scheme are laid not along the perimeter, but by the shortest paths - from the collector to the device

The main disadvantage of the collector wiring is the high material consumption, which is long. And the main plus is that in each room you can adjust a different temperature, creating a comfortable microclimate in any room.

Each radiator or convector is connected independently, which is also convenient for carrying out service work and replacing worn-out system elements without having to turn off the heating in the entire house or apartment.

Concealed installation can significantly improve the visual appearance of any room, leaving only radiators visible

The principle of the organization of the beam scheme

One of the central elements of the beam system is the collector. If you are going to make heating in a house with several floors, then the collector should be located at each level. During installation, the collectors are placed in a collector cabinet, where a convenient system for the location of this element is provided for subsequent maintenance or adjustment.

The beam wiring is used for one- and two-pipe systems. The first option assumes that the supply and collection of the coolant is carried out by one collector. The second option involves the use of two collectors for supply and return

The indisputable advantage of the radiant system is the minimum number of connections, which has a positive effect on the hydraulic stability of the entire heating system. The central working body is the boiler. To ensure high efficiency and safety, the owner needs to take into account the power of the unit, the consumption of thermal energy by heating devices and the heat loss of the system. This must be done regardless of what type of fuel the boiler is running on.

An increase in the length of the pipeline when creating a beam distribution is fraught with a slight increase in heat loss, which must also be taken into account for the balance of capacities.

In a single-pipe radial distribution of heating circuits, the supply of the coolant prepared for heating the devices is carried out by the same collector, which collects the return flow and sends it to the boiler (+)

Choosing a circulation pump

Beam piping is used mainly in horizontal circuits with a lower coolant supply. It requires a circulation pump that stimulates the movement of heated water through multiple branches.

The controlled circulation of the heating medium makes it possible to reduce the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the heating circuit. As a result, it is possible to increase the heating efficiency, making the system more compact and less material-intensive.

When selecting and installing a circulation pump, you need to take into account a number of features, using which you can achieve high efficiency of the entire system.

This unit is selected for several important parameters, including:

  • productivity, m 3 / hour;
  • head height, m.

To choose the right pump for these parameters, you need to take into account the diameter of the pipes, their length and height relative to the level of the pumping unit. When drawing up a project for the installation of a heating system, these parameters are calculated in advance.

Circulation pump installation rules

  • circulating pumps with a wet rotor are installed so that the shaft has a horizontal position;
  • the device with a thermostat should not be close to hot surfaces (radiator or boiler) so that the readings are not distorted;
  • as a rule, it is installed on the return section of the pipeline due to lower temperatures. Modern models can also be installed in the supply line, withstanding high temperature conditions;
  • the heating circuit must be equipped with an air bleed mechanism. If not, then the pump must have an air vent;
  • should be located as close to the expansion tank as possible;
  • before installing the pump, it is recommended to flush the system to remove solid inclusions;
  • fill the system with water before starting the pump;

To avoid becoming a victim of excessive noise, select the pump in accordance with the performance of the heating system.

Is it possible without a pump?

Of course, you can save money and not buy a pump, air vents, sensors, etc. But the natural circulation ray system requires compliance with several not very convenient conditions. Experts recommend this option in extremely rare cases. Firstly, you will need to install wide diameter pipes. Secondly, the expansion vessel must be installed at the highest point of the object.

To save on components, you can do without a pump, but this is possible only if a number of conditions are met and only for small buildings

This option is suitable for a summer residence or other modest object in terms of area, providing enough heat. The choice between natural circulation and forced circulation should be made at the design stage.

Choosing a distribution manifold

This device is also called a comb. Serves to supply the coolant to each heating device (warm floor, radiator, convector, etc.). Through the collector, the return flow also flows out, which then enters the boiler or is again mixed into the circuit to regulate the temperature. The manifold can support from 2 to 12 circuits. Some vendors offer even more branches for complex projects.

The distribution manifold is the main transport terminal, which serves to distribute the heating medium in the right amount for each room or heater

The combs are often equipped with additional shut-off and thermostatic elements. They allow you to adjust the optimal flow rate of the heating agent for each heating branch. The presence of air vents guarantees a more efficient and safer operation of the system.

Beam wiring diagram

When choosing a heating scheme, in most cases, they stop at the radial floor distribution of the pipeline. All pipes are hidden from view in the thickness of the floor. Collector - the main distribution body is installed in the niche of the wall railing, often in a special cabinet located in the center of the house / apartment.

In the overwhelming majority of cases, the implementation of beam wiring requires a circulation pump, and sometimes several, installed on each ring or branch. Its need is described above. Radial wiring of a heating system assembly is most often performed on the basis of one- and two-pipe installation, almost completely replacing the T-type connection.

On each floor, near the riser of the two-pipe system, the supply and return collectors are mounted. Under the floor, pipes from both collectors run in the wall or under the floor and are connected to each radiator within the floor. Each of the contours should have approximately the same length. If this cannot be achieved, then each ring must be equipped with its own circulation pump and automatic temperature control.

In this case, the change in the temperature regime will be completely independent on each circuit and will not affect each other. Because the pipeline will be under the screed, each radiator must be equipped with an air valve. The air vent can also be placed on the manifold.

What should be done before installation?

Before starting work, the owner's task is to correctly select all components and equipment locations, namely:

  • determine the location radiators;
  • choose the type of radiators, based on the pressure indicators and the type of coolant, as well as determine the number of sections or the area of ​​the panels (make a calculation of heat losses and calculate the heat power required for high-quality heating of each room);
  • show schematically the location of the radiators and the routes of the pipeline, not forgetting about the other elements of the heating system (boiler, collectors, pump, etc.);
  • make a paper list all items and make purchases. In order not to be mistaken in the calculation, you can invite a specialist.

So, in order to proceed to the next stage, it is necessary to take into account the rules for installing the ray system.

Installation rules for beam routing

If you choose to lay pipes under the floor, follow a few rules to help avoid heat loss and freezing of the coolant. There must be enough space between the subfloor and the finish floor (more on this later in the description).

When installing pipes in the floor, it is important to take into account several requirements, one of which is the availability of sufficient space between the finishing and subfloors.

The sub-floor can be a concrete foundation slab. A layer of insulation is first laid on it, then a pipeline is arranged. If pipes are laid without a heat-insulating substrate, then the water in these areas can freeze, losing a lot of heat.

As for pipes, it is better to opt for polyethylene or metal-plastic models that are highly flexible. The polypropylene pipeline does not bend well, therefore it is not suitable for radial distribution.

In most cases, a pipe with a diameter of 16 - 20 mm is used (if the radiator power is over 1.5 kW, then 20 mm), on which a heat-insulating corrugation is put on to reduce heat loss and compensate for thermal expansion. The piping must be secured to the base so that it does not float during the pouring of the final screed layer. It can be fixed using mounting tape, plastic clamps or other available methods.

The pipe under the screed must be insulated in order to reduce heat loss to a minimum, and on the first floor it is imperative to lay a layer of thermal insulation

Then, around the pipeline, we lay insulation with a layer of 50 mm of foam or polystyrene foam. We also fix the insulation to the base of the floor using dowels-nails. The final stage is filling with a 5-7 cm layer of mortar, which will serve as the base of the finished floor. Any floor covering can already be laid on this surface.

If the pipes are laid on the second floor and above, then the installation of a layer of thermal insulation is optional. Remember one important rule, there should be no connections on the sections of the pipeline located under the floor.

If there is a pump of sufficient power and capacity, the collector is sometimes placed one floor below the level of the radiators.

If the collector is located on the lower level (basement), then you need to take into account several rules for the correct piping from the comb to the radiators, which are on the next level

From the collector, the pipes rise vertically to the ceiling. Then a bend is made and the piping along the ceiling is brought to each radiator with another 90 degree bend. The pipes must be fixed to the ceiling. Thus, a vertical pipe through the ceiling is connected to each heating device.

Radial wiring and underfloor heating

The beam scheme can also be used to equip the "warm" floor system. With a well-designed project, taking into account all factors, you can abandon radiators, making the warm floor the main source for heating.

Heat fluxes will be evenly distributed throughout the room, without creating a convection effect, unlike radiators. As a result, there is no circulation of dust in the air

Before embarking on the implementation of the idea for the installation of water heated floors, it is important to consider the following features:

  • a reflective screen with a layer of thermal insulation is laid on a concrete or wooden base;
  • pipes are laid on top in a loop-like pattern;
  • before pouring with concrete, a hydraulic test of the system is carried out under pressure throughout the day;
  • the finishing layer is a screed or flooring.

The collector of each circuit must be equipped with flow meters and thermostatic valves, which allow precise control of the coolant flow rate and regulation of its temperature.

When routing pipes, thermostatic heads and servo drives can be used. These devices allow you to automate the work of a warm floor. The system will react to changes in room temperature, adjusting the comfort mode for each room.

Radiant wiring for underfloor heating requires the collector to be equipped with several components that allow you to control, automate and control the underfloor heating to achieve maximum comfort and energy efficiency

During installation, it is extremely important to correctly fix the pipes before filling everything with a screed. To do this, you can use insulation with grooves, reinforcing mesh or staples. Before laying the pipeline, it is necessary to clearly define the route that the coolant will travel to heat the floor (avoid crossing pipes). It is best to cut the pipe only after complete laying and connecting to the return and supply manifolds.

It is important that the pipeline is under pressure when filling. Until the concrete mixture has completely hardened and three weeks have passed, it is impossible to supply the coolant with the operating temperature. Only then we start at 25 ° C and after 4 days finish with the design temperature.

For wooden houses

To lay the piping in a timber base, it is necessary to drill holes in the timber floor joists. In this case, the holes should be slightly larger than the diameter of the pipes so that the beam and the entire structure do not create pressure on the pipeline.

When installing beam wiring in wooden floors, it is important that the floor structure does not create pressure on the pipes, and the latter are securely fixed

In our example, the sub-floor is wooden, on which the pipe system is located. Again, there should be no joints in the floor. they must be located exclusively above the level of the floor covering.

Analysis of the arguments "for" and "against"

Let's start with the cons. In addition to material consumption, which affects the cost of the project, there is the need to install a manifold cabinet, which will require additional space.

This is where the disadvantages of the ray system end, and a ridge of advantages begins:

  • simple design and installation, pipes of the same diameter are used within the system;
  • with hidden installation, there are no connections in the walls and floor;
  • high installation speed due to the minimum number of connections;
  • expansion of functionality through the installation of valves, sensors, air vents and thermal heads to automate the operation of the heating system;
  • temperature control in each individual room using mechanical elements or automation;
  • the ability to cut off any radiator without stopping the heating process;
  • uniform heating of all rooms.

The external control panel allows you to program the heating operation, including automatic adjustment depending on the weather conditions outside. Thanks to the installed sensors, all residents can set any parameters that are comfortable for them, being in a particular room.

The radiant system is materially costly in terms of implementation, but it is ahead of all other options in terms of flexibility of settings and ensuring the efficiency of all heating

Thus, the radial layout of the wiring allows you to achieve high controllability of the heating system and to achieve the optimal flow rate of the coolant.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The video will help you to visually understand the installation features and understand how a heating system with radial wiring works:

An energy efficient heating system is a balanced combination of all its components. The piping serves as a kind of circulatory system for heating. The beam method of pipeline installation allows you to deliver exactly as much coolant as is needed for each working device for its optimal operation.

When building houses, you need to think over the functionality of the heating system. It is one of the most expensive to build, but the comfort and convenience of residents in the winter season depends on it. In addition to the cost of the system itself, the cost of fuel is also an important factor in a private home. Traditional heating systems are being replaced by newer ones that require different installation methods. One such variation is radiant heating. These systems are quite complex and require a properly executed project and installation. The characteristic features, rules, advantages and disadvantages are worth considering separately.

Construction diagram

Radial system design

In most modern housing, heating pipes are laid parallel to the walls. But this wiring method is ineffective in large buildings with several tiers. The liquid that transfers heat begins to lose energy in a short time, as a result of which the temperature in the rooms that are located next to the boiler room will be higher than in the remote ones. To correct this disadvantage and ensure uniform heating, a radiant heating system for a private house was invented.


Visual representation

Heating is significantly different from the traditional tee for most buildings. The main difference is the need to install a manifold cabinet, which contains the necessary equipment to ensure the circulation.

In this design, several separate circuits are created, which are connected in parallel with heating elements: heating batteries, underfloor heating. Moreover, the piping is carried out in the process of overhaul on the floor of the building. Thus, each of the heating elements is filled with coolant from a separate heating circuit, while each radiator will have approximately the same temperature.

Unlike tee wiring, radial requires a significantly larger number of pipes, but fewer connecting components. Therefore, the complexity of their installation is approximately equal. Since parallel wiring is considered more reliable, it is more difficult to make mistakes during execution, and leaks and leaks occur less often.

Pros and cons of the beam system

Like other types of wiring, the beam has both a number of advantages and disadvantages. Moreover, before installation, you should familiarize yourself with all the positive and negative sides and features of use. This will avoid complications and problems in the future. It's worth starting with the cons.


Switchboard

Cons of the beam system

The main disadvantages of this wiring scheme include:

  1. The need to purchase and lay a significant number of pipes. For each heating element in the house, at least 2 pipes are required, which must be connected into a single network, connected through a system of fittings.
  2. A significant number of pipes leads to a high complexity of installation. Therefore, when building a house, heating installation is extremely expensive.
  3. Beam wiring can be mounted extremely covertly. The traditional tee system is usually mounted along the walls, however, due to the large number of supply and output pipes, it is possible to lay the beam only under the floor. An alternative is to fix the pipes in the walls, but this significantly increases the amount of material required and the complexity of the work.
  4. Lack of docking modules. When laying pipes, be sure to avoid turns and joints. It is in such areas that a breakthrough occurs most often. And since the repair of the beam wiring is significantly complicated due to the need to tear off the floor covering, it is easier to prevent problems.
  5. If there are a large number of rooms in which different temperatures are required, then each of the pipelines must be equipped with a separate pump for forced circulation.

Benefits of the beam system

The main advantages include ease of use. A significant amount of equipment is attached to the system to make heating control as simple as possible.

  1. With the help of a manifold cabinet, you can easily adjust the temperature of each individual radiator. Also, it is possible to completely stop the flow of fluid to any of the radiators without any problems, without disconnecting the rest.
  2. Each supply and return pipe goes exclusively to one heating element. This allows the use of small diameter pipes. They are easy to disguise under the flooring. And also slightly heat the house.
  3. Taking into account the use of water switches, which are a container with a large capacity, you can arrange different temperatures in different rooms.
  4. Profitability. The loss of energy by the coolant during movement is much lower. In addition, the floor heats up, which then transfers heat to the atmosphere.
  5. Allows you to efficiently distribute heat even to the most remote rooms.

How the ray system is organized

The most important element in the organization of such systems is the collector assembly. If it is necessary to carry out wiring on each of the floors, you will need to place one on each of the floors.


Forced circulation pump

During the laying process, the collectors are placed in special cabinets, in which it is possible to regulate the operation of the system. When laying, it is required to ensure the minimum number of pipe joints, which significantly increases the safety and stability of the equipment.

Also, it is required to choose the right heating boiler, taking into account the power, heat and electric energy costs, efficiency, taking into account the heat losses by the system. Regardless of the type of fuel that the boiler consumes during the heating process, the need for calculation is mandatory.

Rules for choosing a forced circulation pump

The main application of the radial circuits of home heating systems is horizontal arrangement, with the supply of the coolant from below. To ensure the possibility of functioning, it is required to use a circulation pump, which provides forced circulation of the coolant along the branches of the network.

The use of a pump can significantly reduce the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet at the circuit. As a result, the efficiency of the beam system is significantly increased, providing greater compactness and lower material costs.

There are several parameters to choose this type of unit:

  • performance;
  • head height.

To choose the right pump, you need to take into account the width of the pipe lumen, the length and level of height, relative to the pump itself. All calculations are made in advance.

How to properly install a circulation pump

  1. Wet power pumps are installed horizontally.
  2. The device with a thermostat must not be brought as close to hot surfaces as possible in order to avoid distorted readings.
  3. Installation is usually carried out on the return sections of the system in order to ensure the normal operation of the system in order not to exceed the temperature indicators. A number of modern pumps can also be installed near the boiler and work without problems at high temperatures.
  4. If there is no mechanism for eliminating excess air on the heating circuit, you should definitely choose a pump with the ability to remove gases.
  5. It is advisable to mount it as close as possible to the expansion tank.
  6. Before installation, it is advisable to clean the system from all solid fractions.
  7. Before launching the radiation system, it is definitely worth conducting a preliminary test with water.

Circulation pump installation

Is it possible without a pump?

The operation of the system can be ensured without purchasing and connecting a pump and a number of devices for removing excess air, but at the same time it is required to ensure that certain conditions are met, which are extremely difficult to implement. It is required to choose pipes with a large diameter and mount the expansion tank at the maximum height from the floor.

This method can be used in rooms with small dimensions to ensure sufficient warmth in the room. However, choosing between forced or natural water supply is required even during the calculation process.

Choosing a distribution manifold

This device has a second name - a distributor comb. It received it for its function - the supply of liquid that conducts heat to each individual heating element, radiators, warm floor and others. Also, the coolant is returned to certain holes on the way back, after which the boiler is supplied, or mixed with the contents of the pipes to reduce the temperature.


Distribution manifold

The number of simultaneously supported pipes reaches 12. In some models, for complex radial heating systems of a two-story house, their number may be greater. Each manifold is activated by a ball valve, which allows the flow of fluid to be regulated to each radiator. This is necessary to adjust the amount of coolant that goes along the branches.

Which pipes to choose

There are a number of aspects that determine the operational characteristics of the future pipeline. It is worth choosing after you decide where the network will be mounted: under a masking coating or in a cement screed.

In the process of work, it will be necessary to bend the pipes in a certain way, at a non-standard angle. For this reason, it is desirable to use a material with a sufficient degree of flexibility so as not to increase the number of joints. XLPE pipes are considered the best option.


Pipes

Moreover, the structure must have a layer of airtight material. Otherwise, the smallest oxygen particles contained in the coolant may escape. As a result, rusting of the boiler and radiators is observed.

Also, you should pay attention to the following points:

  1. Radial routing does not require the use of standard diameter pipes. The optimal clearance is from 24 to 32 millimeters.
  2. It is worth choosing products that are sufficiently protected from mechanical damage. Most often, they are poured with cement, while it is required to avoid excessive pressure on the network.

This requires checking the integrity and connection of all pipe elements. Then you can start. This is required to prevent leaks during operation.

Beam wiring diagram

When choosing a scheme, the preference is usually given to the floor scheme. The net is carried out under a camouflage covering on the floor. The collector is usually mounted in a pre-prepared niche in the wall. An alternative is a special cabinet.

Most systems require a circulation pump to be installed, but there are options when several of them are not required, or they are mounted alternately on each of the rings. A supply and discharge container is attached to each element of the system. Then, pipes from the collectors are placed under the cement screed, and then they are connected to the heating element.

It is desirable that the duration of all pipes is approximately equal. Otherwise, it will be necessary to additionally equip the system with a circulation pump and sensors for temperature control. There are two main ways of organizing heating: with forced circulation and without. It is worth describing each of them in more detail, with all their inherent features.

Method 1 with forced water circulation

This type of system, which is equipped with pumps for forced movement of fluid, was previously considered extremely expensive. However, with the advent of cheap and reliable pumps, such heating with pumps is increasingly used in apartment buildings and private houses.

The most important difference is that the coolant (water or antifreeze) circulates between the heating boiler and the radiators, not using gravity, temperature and pressure differences, but using a special pump.


Natural heating scheme

At the same time, there are a number of positive aspects:

  1. The system can be mounted in a room of any complexity and geometry.
  2. You can install beam routing in rooms with large areas.
  3. Pipes of almost any diameter can be used for laying, provided they are at right angles.

It is advisable to mount the circulation pump on the reverse of the pipes leading to the distribution manifold in order to prevent overheating of the equipment and early failure.

Method 2 with natural water circulation

In a system without the use of circulating pumps, the movement of fluid is provided by gravity. The hotter liquid is less dense, due to which it moves upward, then, over time, it returns to the collector and batteries, and then to the radiators.

The installation has the following features:

  1. During installation, it is required to provide a place for an open-type expansion tank, which must be placed in the highest place. It is required to compensate for the expansion of the coolant due to heating and does not allow the pressure to increase too much.
  2. At the same time, the purchase and installation of circulation pumps is not required, which reduces the cost estimate for work.

This type of heating does not require electrical energy, which is convenient for summer cottages and other country houses.

Radial wiring and underfloor heating

In addition to connecting to radiators, you can use a beam scheme to organize a "Warm" floor system. If you draw up a project correctly, taking into account all possible options, you can not purchase radiators, making the floor in the house the basis of heating.

In this case, the heat will be distributed over the entire area of ​​the room, without heating some areas, as well as the ascent of air currents. This leads to a reduction in the amount of moving dust.

However, before installing such a system, several factors must be taken into account:

  1. If the floor is made of concrete or wood, then a heat insulator must be placed under the bottom.
  2. Then, arrange the set of pipes in the form of a serpentine.
  3. Before concreting, it is required to test the system with water at normal pressure for 24 hours.
  4. After that, place the screed.

For each of these circuits, a distribution manifold with sensors is required. In order to prevent the pipes from being squeezed, it is advisable to secure them with fittings or brackets.


Warm floor

Options for wooden houses

If you plan to place such a system on the floor in a wooden house, then it is advisable to provide a number of holes in the wooden floor beams. Moreover, the slots should be slightly larger in diameter than the pipes themselves, in order to prevent additional pressure on the pipeline.

Installation features

All such systems are mounted and designed for a specific house, taking into account the dimensions, area, number of rooms and floors, the planned coolant, radiator and some other parameters.

However, there are a number of rules that must be followed during installation. The use of the beam system in an apartment building is not permitted. Since the coolant circulates along vertical risers that unite all rooms into a single network. Due to the connection of several collectors to the system, the liquid will not circulate to the upper floors.


Installation process

In private houses, you can equip a ray system if you follow these recommendations:

  1. All collectors that circulate the coolant for radiators must necessarily be fitted with valves that would prevent the formation of plugs.
  2. The circuit must be equipped with an expansion tank with a volume of 10% of the total amount of liquid circulating through the pipes. The best option is to use a membrane tank.
  3. The tank is attached to the pipeline, which connects the outlet tank with the heating element.
  4. If you plan to attach multiple pumps, make sure they are horizontal. Otherwise, they will break, requiring costly repairs or replacement.

Preparing for installation

Before all work, it is required to draw up a project. It is especially important to refer to the formation of the drawing. It should be detailed enough, with all calculations and dimensions. If it is impossible to do it yourself, you can attract specialists.

Also required:

  1. Select locations for batteries.
  2. Select the type of radiators and the number of sections.
  3. Make a list of required materials and equipment.

Installation of a radiant heating system

Collector-beam heating systems are mounted under the floor. In this case, it is required to follow several recommendations.

A rough floor or base can be the foundation of a building, on which a heat insulator is attached, after which a pipeline is placed. After that, the pipeline from the previously purchased and cut segments is connected. So that when pouring concrete it does not rise, it is advisable to attach it in any of the ways.

After that, around the network, it is required to place a foam insulation up to 5 centimeters and nail it in with dowels. After that, it can be poured with concrete, up to 50-70mm.

Analysis of the arguments for and against

The system has both advantages and disadvantages that must be taken into account when designing. It is necessary to position the manifold cabinet, which takes up a lot of space, to choose the right pipes.

However, the advantages and benefits of such a system are much greater. Therefore, many owners prefer to install pipes precisely along the radial distribution of the heating system in an apartment building. This provides many benefits.

Conclusions on the topic

This heating system is more energy efficient than any other. It consists of many components, and the pipes themselves and the wiring "feed" the heating elements and remove the waste liquid. The beam scheme allows the coolant to be distributed extremely efficiently.

Thanks to the advent of new materials and equipment, it has become possible to modernize traditional water heating systems. One of these innovations, which are gaining more and more popularity, we will discuss in this article. This is the so-called collector or radial heating system, which has appeared relatively recently. Consider what it is and how to mount it in a private house.

Collector system device

Radial routing is essentially a hybrid between a traditional two-pipe system and a water-heated floor system. Just as in a two-pipe system, the coolant enters the distribution manifold and radiators through two pipelines - supply and return. The collector itself and the method of laying pipes were taken from the warm floors - in the floor screed or between wooden logs.

The structure of the system is as follows: the main line runs from the boiler plant to the distribution header. A separate line is laid from it to each heater under the floors. The connection is straightforward, without any fittings and unnecessary turns. For clarity, below is a functional diagram of a radiation heating system of a private house:

The easiest way to implement it is in a one-story house with a small area. For the distributor, you need to choose a convenient place, better - somewhere in the center of the building, you can in the corridor. Bring the coolant from the boiler to it and lay pipes to the radiators. How it looks in the plan of the house is shown in the sketch:

The versatility of beam systems lies in the fact that you can easily carry out wiring in a private house of any number of storeys. To do this, a riser is laid from the boiler room from pipes of such a diameter to ensure the required flow rate of the heat carrier for the entire building. On each floor, a collector is connected to the riser, and from it, the wiring to the radiators is done in a ray manner. The diameter of the vertical section leading to the next floor is reduced according to the hydraulic calculation. The layout for a two-story house is shown in the sketch:

In large cottages, in addition to the radiator heating system, heated floors are additionally arranged, buffer tanks and indirect heating boilers are installed. Then the radiant heating system of a two-story house becomes more complicated, a distribution comb is installed in the boiler room. It is connected to both the riser of the radial distribution, and all other heat consumers, as shown in the diagram:

Each circuit has an individual circulation pump installed on the supply line from the manifold. It turns out that all circuits function independently of each other and can be adjusted automatically.

Note. The diagram does not show the circulation pumps of the boiler circuit, since in wall-mounted boilers these units are located inside.

Pros and cons of a radiant heating system

I must say that the new collector-beam heating system took all their advantages and disadvantages from their predecessors. First, about the good:

  • the most advanced hydraulic circuit. The coolant goes to each battery along an individual line, so they are absolutely independent of each other. The design of the manifold allows for easy balancing of these branches;
  • all radiators receive water at the same temperature;
  • the number of connections is minimal, there are no tees;
  • it is convenient to introduce means of automatic regulation and control the entire circuit as a whole;
  • you can always turn off any battery by opening the cabinet with the distributor and turning off the corresponding tap;
  • aesthetics. There are no pipes in sight.

As usual, there were some drawbacks. The most unpleasant of them is the high cost of equipment and installation. Even the absence of fittings cannot compensate for the costs of the manifold and the increased footage of pipes. If there are several floors, then the price doubles and triples, compared to a simple two-pipe system, this is very expensive. Well, the installation of wiring in the floor screed or between the logs involves additional work on the installation of the floor covering, which again leads to a rise in price.

Homeowners often ask the question: why do I need a radial heating circuit with radiators, if you still need to deal with the screed device, then it's better to immediately make warm floors. And they are right, underfloor heating warms up the room more evenly, and at a cost it will not be much more expensive. The conclusion is simple: in the presence of financial resources, warm floors are preferable.

There is one more nuance: collector wiring will not allow you to realize the natural circulation of the coolant due to the inability to withstand diameters and slopes. So you can forget about non-volatility.

First of all, you need to correctly determine the diameters of the pipelines, especially for highways, here you can not do without a hydraulic calculation. It is a little easier with radial branches to radiators, their size can be taken according to the following principle:

  • for a battery with a capacity of up to 1.5 kW, a pipe 16 x 2 mm;
  • for a radiator with a power of more than 1.5 kW, a pipe 20 x 2 mm.

When carrying out the wiring in the floor, all the liners must be insulated, otherwise you will heat the screed sections, and the batteries will be cold. Do not scatter the pipes at random, arguing that they will still be filled with solution and there will be no mess. This is a mistake, the branches must be laid neatly, distributing them in pairs, and at the end put only noticeable marks for you in those places where the pipes lie. Subsequently, this will help to quickly find them in the event of an accident.

Do-it-yourself installation in a one-story house is relatively easy. Choose the optimal placement for a cabinet with a manifold (ideally in a wall niche), measure distances and purchase pipes, install radiators. There is no need to install balancing valves anywhere, only ball valves on batteries. By the way, if possible, vertical sections of pipes coming out of the floor can be hidden in the walls. Then the connections to the heating devices will be completely invisible.

Advice. Do not use polypropylene pipes in such networks. They do not bend and have a large linear elongation. And it is illogical to use cheap materials in an expensive system, it is better to take metal-plastic or cross-linked polyethylene.

In a house with two or more floors, it is necessary to install shut-off and control valves on each branch from the riser. A ball valve is installed on the supply pipeline, and a balancing valve on the return line. This will balance the entire system hydraulically, as well as cut off floors from heating if necessary.

Conclusion

As you can see, ray routing is one of the most successful solutions, although in some situations it may not be practical. Despite all its advantages, the scheme belongs to the high price category, where it is difficult for it to compete with warm floors and other modern systems. Nevertheless, these types of wiring have the right to life and find their application not only in private houses, but also in public and administrative buildings.

There are a considerable number of radiator heating pipe layouts, but due to many of its advantages, two layouts are especially fixed: two-pipe and radial. Most often, any developer has to choose between these two systems (if by itself it was decided to install radiators). In the hope of getting recommendations from installers, you usually do not meet objectivity and everyone matches what is more convenient for him.

And there is also the most pleasant phrase that every customer loves to hear: "Well, this, you decide there yourself, but we don't care what to mount." Let's try to adequately understand the strengths and weaknesses of two-pipe and beam radiator wiring

This is a consequence of the evolution of the one-pipe system, which got rid of all the main disadvantages. In this system, two pipes are led in parallel to the radiator. One feed, then feed, another reverse, then return. A hot coolant is fed into the supply, and it will enter with practically the same temperature into each battery. And in the opposite direction, the already cooled coolant flows by itself.

In a one-pipe system, we were faced with the fact that only one looped pipe was responsible for the supply and return. Therefore, the temperature difference between the first and subsequent batteries was more significant. And it was not possible to "level" the system so that each radiator was at the same temperature.

What is a radial heating scheme?

Let's now highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each heating scheme.

What heating is cheaper?

The most prominent plus of the two-pipe system is the price. This system is cheaper than a beam system. Mainly due to the fact that fewer pipes are used and there is no need to purchase a distribution manifold. But in a two-pipe system, more fittings are used. At our last facility with an area of ​​300 square meters, the difference between the beam and two-pipe systems was 30,000. In both cases, reinforced-plastic pipes were used, as well as connections from the same company.

On the one hand, this can be attributed to the disadvantages of the ray system. But on the other hand, for such an object, for many developers, the difference of 30,000 will be insignificant.

Materials used

Polypropylene can be used for piping a two-pipe system. As we know, this is the most affordable type of pipe on the market. Now we will not list the advantages and disadvantages of this material. You just need to keep in mind that if the budget is limited, then you can use polypropylene.

With radial wiring, only metal-plastic pipes or pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene with a thicker wall are used.

Number of joints

There is a clear advantage here for the radiant heating system. Its main advantage is the absence of connecting parts in the concrete screed. All connections are located in the manifold and on the radiator itself. Accordingly, if something ever decides to leak, it will happen in the visible field and you can quickly eliminate everything.

In a two-pipe system, all connections are poured with a concrete screed and recessed into the walls. This adds to the likelihood of any leakage as a result of the operation of the system. Although press and tension pipe joints are renowned for their reliability, in fact, accidents are rare.

It's different if you're using polypropylene. There are even more joints and most of them are also in the inaccessible area. Here is really a lottery. If suddenly, the installer welded the joint inaccurately, then it may not flow immediately. Withstands a year or two. And then the fun begins. So with polypropylene pipes for concealed installation, I would recommend being extremely careful.

Temperature control

These systems have convenient ways to adjust the temperature. The most commonly used thermal heads on radiators. This is a relatively inexpensive and convenient adjustment option.

The advantage of the radiant system is that you can put servo drives on the collector and regulate the temperature in each room using room thermostats. This option is already much more expensive, but at the same time, it is more advanced.

What's the bottom line?

An insignificant disadvantage of the beam system is that space is required to install the collector. And in truth it is not always present. Plus, it is advisable to put the collector in the middle of the house.

If we consider these two systems in terms of efficiency, economy, then they have absolute parity. Both systems do an excellent job of their function.

It's just that if your budget is limited, then it is worth looking towards the two-pipe system. You can also use polypropylene if you wish. The radiation system will add some comfort and peace to you, that under the screed, if something happens, you will not leak anything.

It is important to understand the main thing. In both cases, your choice will be absolutely correct!