The difference in the length of the contours of the warm floor. Underfloor heating contour length: optimal pipe values. How many pipes are required for a "warm floor"

Underfloor heating is an excellent solution for improving your home. The floor temperature directly depends on the length of the underfloor heating pipes hidden in the screed. The pipe in the floor is laid in loops. In fact, the total length of the pipe is added up from the number of loops and their length. It is clear that the longer the pipe in the same volume, the warmer the floor. In this article, we will talk about restrictions on the length of one contour of a warm floor.

Approximate design characteristics for pipes with a diameter of 16 and 20 mm are: 80-100 and 100-120 meters, respectively. These data are approximate for approximate calculations. Let's take a closer look at the process of installing and pouring underfloor heating.

Consequences of exceeding the length

Let's figure out what consequences an increase in the length of the underfloor heating pipe can lead to. One of the reasons is an increase in hydraulic resistance, which will create an additional load on the hydraulic pump, as a result of which it may fail or simply may not cope with the task assigned to it. The resistance calculation consists of many parameters. Conditions, styling parameters. The material of the pipes used. Here are the three main ones: loop length, number of bends and thermal load on it.

It is worth noting that the thermal load increases with the increase in the loop. The flow rate and hydraulic resistance also increase. There are restrictions on the flow rate. It should not exceed 0.5 m/s. If we exceed this value, various noise effects may occur in the piping system. The main parameter, for the sake of which this calculation is made, also increases. The hydraulic resistance of our system. It also has limitations. They are 30-40 kP per loop.

The next reason is that with an increase in the length of the underfloor heating pipe, the pressure on the pipe walls increases, causing this section to elongate when heated. The pipe in the screed has nowhere to go. And it will begin to narrow at its weakest point. The constriction can cause blockage of the flow in the coolant. Pipes made of different materials have different coefficients of expansion. For example, polymer pipes have a very high expansion coefficient. All these parameters must be taken into account when installing a warm floor.

Therefore, it is necessary to fill in the underfloor heating screed with pressed pipes. It is better to pressurize with air with a pressure of about 4 bar. Thus, when you fill the system with water and start heating it, the pipe in the screed will expand somewhere.

Optimum pipe length

Considering all the above reasons, taking into account the corrections for the linear expansion of the pipe material, we take as a basis the maximum length of the underfloor heating pipes per circuit:

What is the optimal length of the underfloor heating pipe?
Let's find out the optimal length of the underfloor heating pipe and what could be the consequences if the circuit is longer. Everything in our article

One of the conditions for the implementation of high-quality and proper heating of a room with a warm floor is to maintain the temperature of the coolant in accordance with the specified parameters.

These parameters are determined by the project, taking into account the required amount of heat for the heated room and flooring.

Required data for calculation

To maintain the set temperature in the room, it is necessary to correctly calculate the length of the loops used to circulate the coolant.

First, you need to collect the initial data on the basis of which the calculation will be performed and which consist of the following indicators and characteristics:

the temperature that should be above the floor covering,
layout diagram of loops with coolant,
distance between pipes
maximum possible pipe length,
the possibility of using several contours of different lengths,
connection of several loops to one collector and to one pump and their possible number with such a connection.

Based on the above data, it is possible to correctly calculate the length of the underfloor heating circuit and, through this, ensure a comfortable temperature regime in the room with minimal costs for paying for energy supply.

Floor temperature

The temperature on the surface of the floor, made with a water heating device underneath, depends on the functional purpose of the room. Its values should not exceed those specified in the table:

Pipe laying options used for underfloor heating

The laying scheme can be performed with a regular, double and corner snake or snail. Various combinations of these options are also possible, for example, along the edge of the room you can lay out a pipe with a snake, and then the middle part with a snail.

In large rooms of complex configuration, it is better to lay with a snail. In rooms of small size and with a variety of complex configurations, snake laying is used.

Distance between pipes

The pipe laying step is determined by calculation and usually corresponds to 15, 20 and 25 cm, but no more. When laying out the pipes with a step of more than 25 cm, the human foot will feel the temperature difference between and directly above them.

At the edges of the room, the heating circuit pipe is laid in increments of 10 cm.

Permissible contour length

It depends on the pressure in a particular closed loop and hydraulic resistance, the values of which determine the diameter of the pipes and the volume of fluid that is fed into them per unit time.

When installing a warm floor, situations often occur when the circulation of the coolant in a separate loop is disturbed, which cannot be restored by any pump, water is locked in this circuit, as a result of which it cools down. This results in pressure losses of up to 0.2 bar.

Based on practical experience, you can adhere to the following recommended sizes:

Less than 100 m can be a loop made of a metal-plastic pipe with a diameter of 16 mm. For reliability, the optimal size is 80 m.
Not more than 120 m take the maximum length of the circuit of 18 mm pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene. Experts are trying to install a circuit with a length of 80-100 m.
No more than 120-125 m, the size of the loop for metal-plastic with a diameter of 20 mm is considered acceptable. In practice, they also try to reduce this length to ensure sufficient reliability of the system.

For a more accurate determination of the size of the loop length for the underfloor heating in the room under consideration, in which there will be no problems with the circulation of the coolant, it is necessary to perform calculations.

Application of several contours of different lengths

For example, it is necessary to implement a floor heating system in several rooms, one of which, for example, a bathroom, has an area of 4 m2. This means that 40 m of pipe will be needed to heat it. It is not advisable to arrange contours of 40 m in other rooms, while loops of 80-100 m can be made.

The difference in pipe lengths is determined by calculation. If it is impossible to perform calculations, a requirement can be applied that allows a difference in the length of the contours of the order of 30-40%.

Also, the difference in the lengths of the loops can be compensated by increasing or decreasing the diameter of the pipe and changing the pitch of its laying.

Ability to connect to one node and pump

The number of loops that can be connected to one collector and one pump is determined depending on the power of the equipment used, the number of thermal circuits, the diameter and material of the pipes used, the area of heated premises, the material of the enclosing structures, and many other various indicators.

Such calculations must be entrusted to specialists with knowledge and practical skills in the implementation of such projects.

Loop size determination

Having collected all the initial data, having considered possible options for creating a heated floor and determining the most optimal of them, you can proceed directly to calculating the length of the water floor heating circuit.

To do this, it is necessary to divide the area of \u200b\u200bthe room in which the loops for water floor heating are laid by the distance between the pipes and multiply by a factor of 1.1, which takes into account 10% for turns and bends.

You can determine the length of the loop laid in 20 cm increments in a room of 10 m2, located at a distance of 3 m from the collector, by doing the following:

In this room, 61 m of pipe must be laid, forming a heating circuit, in order to ensure the possibility of high-quality heating of the floor covering.

The presented calculation helps to create conditions for maintaining a comfortable air temperature in small separate rooms.

In order to correctly determine the length of the pipe of several thermal circuits for a large number of rooms powered by one collector, it is necessary to involve a design organization.

She will do this with the help of specialized programs that take into account many different factors on which the uninterrupted circulation of water depends, and hence the high-quality floor heating.

The optimal length of the contour of the warm floor
One of the conditions for the implementation of high-quality and proper heating of the room with the help of a warm floor is the optimal length of the contour of the warm floor.

Seven times to measure calls for folk wisdom. And you can't argue with that.

In practice, to embody what has repeatedly scrolled in the head is not easy.

In this article we will talk about the work related to the communications of a warm water floor, in particular, we will pay attention to the length of its contour.

If we are planning to install a water heated floor, the length of the circuit is one of the first issues that needs to be dealt with.

Pipe arrangement

The underfloor heating system includes a considerable list of elements. We are interested in tubes. It is their length that determines the concept of "the maximum length of a warm water floor." It is necessary to lay them taking into account the characteristics of the room.

Based on this, we get four options, known as:

If you make the right styling, then each of the listed types will be effective for space heating. Different can be (and most likely will be) the footage of the pipe and the volume of water. The maximum length of the water-heated floor circuit for a particular room will depend on this.

Main calculations: water volume and pipeline length

There are no tricks here, on the contrary - everything is very simple. For example, we chose the snake option. We will use a number of indicators, among which is the length of the contour of a water-heated floor. Another parameter is the diameter. Mostly pipes with a diameter of 2 cm are used.

We also take into account the distance from the pipes to the wall. Here it is recommended to fit in the range of 20-30 cm, but it is better to place the pipes clearly at a distance of 20 cm.

The distance between the pipes themselves is 30 cm. The width of the pipe itself is 3 cm. In practice, we get a distance between them of 27 cm.
Now let's move on to the area of the room.

This indicator will be decisive for such a parameter of a warm water floor as the length of the circuit:

Let's say our room is 5 meters long and 4 meters wide.
The laying of the pipeline of our system always starts from the smaller side, that is, from the width.
To create the basis of the pipeline, we take 15 pipes.
A gap of 10 cm remains near the walls, which then increases on each side by 5 cm.
The section between the pipeline and the collector is 40 cm. This distance exceeds the 20 cm from the wall that we talked about above, since a water drainage channel will have to be installed in this section.

Our indicators now make it possible to calculate the length of the pipeline: 15x3.4 \u003d 51 m. The entire circuit will take 56 m, since we should also take into account the length of the so-called. collector section, which is 5 m.

Quantity

One of the following questions: what is the maximum length of a water floor heating circuit? What to do if the room requires, for example, 130, or 140-150 m of pipe? The way out is very simple: it will be necessary to make more than one contour.

In the operation of a water-heated floor system, the main thing is efficiency. If, according to calculations, we need 160 m of pipe, then we make two circuits of 80 m each. After all, the optimal length of the contour of a water-heated floor should not exceed this indicator. This is due to the ability of the equipment to create the necessary pressure and circulation in the system.

It is not necessary to make the two pipelines absolutely equal, but it is also not desirable that the difference be noticeable. Experts believe that the difference may well reach 15 m.

We have also prepared the following useful information for you:

Maximum length of the water floor heating circuit

To determine this parameter, we must consider:

hydraulic resistance,
pressure loss in a particular circuit.

The listed parameters are determined, first of all, by the diameter of the pipes used for the warm water floor, the volume of the coolant (per unit of time).

In the installation of a warm floor, there is a concept - the effect of the so-called. locked loop. This is a situation where circulation through the loop will not be possible, regardless of the pump power. This effect is inherent in the situation of a pressure loss of 0.2 bar (20 kPa).

In order not to confuse you with long calculations, we will write a few recommendations that have been proven by practice:

The maximum contour of 100 m is used for pipes with a diameter of 16 mm made of metal-plastic or polyethylene. Ideal option - 80 m
A contour of 120 m is the limit for a 18 mm pipe made of cross-linked polyethylene. However, it is better to limit yourself to a range of 80-100 m
With 20 mm plastic pipe, you can make a circuit of 120-125 m

Thus, the maximum length of a pipe for a warm water floor depends on a number of parameters, the main of which is the diameter and material of the pipe.

Read on our website about which flooring is better to choose for a warm water floor:

And also learn more here about how to make a warm water floor with your own hands.

Are two identical needed/possible?

Naturally, the situation will look ideal when the loops have the same length. In this case, you will not need any settings, the search for balance. But this is mostly in theory. If you look at practice, it turns out that it is not even advisable to achieve such a balance in a warm water floor.

The fact is that it is often necessary to lay a warm floor at an object consisting of several rooms. One of them is emphasized small, for example - a bathroom. Its area is 4-5 m2. In this case, a reasonable question arises - is it worth adjusting the entire area for a bathroom, splitting it into tiny sections?

Since this is not advisable, we come to a different question: how not to lose on pressure. And for this, elements such as balancing fittings have been created, the use of which consists in equalizing pressure losses along the contours.

Again, calculations can be used. But they are complex. From the practice of carrying out work on the installation of a warm water floor, we can safely say that the spread in the size of the contours is possible within 30-40%. In this case, we have every chance to get the maximum effect from the operation of a warm water floor.

Quantity with one pump

Another frequently asked question: how many circuits can operate on one mixing unit and one pump?
The question really needs to be clarified. For example, to the level - how many loops can be connected to the collector? In this case, we take into account the diameter of the collector, the volume of the coolant passing through the node per unit of time (the calculation is in m3 per hour).

We need to look at the data sheet of the node, where the maximum throughput factor is indicated. If we carry out calculations, then we will get the maximum indicator, but we cannot count on it.

One way or another, the maximum number of circuit connections is indicated on the device - as a rule, 12. Although, according to calculations, we can get both 15 and 17.

The maximum number of outlets in the collector does not exceed 12. Although there are exceptions.

We saw that installing a warm water floor is a very troublesome business. Especially in that part of it, where we are talking about the length of the contour. Therefore, it is better to contact specialists so as not to redo later a not entirely successful styling that will not bring the efficiency that you expected.

Laying and calculation of the maximum length of the water floor heating circuit
The article has detailed information about the maximum length of the water floor heating circuit, the location of the pipes, optimal calculations, as well as the number of circuits with one pump and whether two are the same.

Laying heating pipes under the floor is considered one of the best options for heating a house or apartment. They consume fewer resources to maintain the specified temperature in the room, exceed standard wall-mounted radiators in terms of reliability, evenly distribute heat in the room, and do not create separate “cold” and “hot” zones.

The length of the water floor heating circuit is the most important parameter that must be determined before the start of installation work. The future power of the system, the level of heating, the choice of components and structural units depend on it.

Styling options

Four common pipe laying patterns are used by builders, each better suited for use in a different room shape. From their "drawing" to a large extent depends on the maximum length of the contour of the warm floor. It:

"Snake". Sequential laying, where the hot and cold lines follow each other. Suitable for elongated rooms with division into zones of different temperatures.
"Double snake". It is used in rectangular rooms, but without zoning. Provides uniform heating of the area.
"Corner snake". Sequential system for a room with equal wall lengths and a low heating zone.
"Snail". Dual routing system suitable for square-shaped rooms with no cold spots.

The chosen laying option affects the maximum length of the water floor, because the number of pipe loops and the bending radius change, which also “eats” a certain percentage of the material.

Length calculation

The maximum length of the underfloor heating pipe for each circuit is calculated separately. To get the required value, you need the following formula:

Values are in meters and mean the following:

W is the width of the room.
D is the length of the room.
Shu - “laying step” (distance between loops).
K is the distance from the collector to the connection point with the circuits.

The length of the contour of the warm floor obtained as a result of calculations is additionally increased by 5%, which includes a small margin for leveling errors, changing the bending radius of the pipe and connecting with fittings.

As an example of calculating the maximum pipe length for a warm floor for 1 circuit, let's take a room of 18 m2 with sides of 6 and 3 m. The distance to the collector is 4 m, and the laying step is 20 cm, the following is obtained:

5% is added to the result, which is 4.94 m and the recommended length of the water floor heating circuit is increased to 103.74 m, which are rounded up to 104 m.

Dependence on pipe diameter

The second most important characteristic is the diameter of the pipe used. It directly affects the maximum length value, the number of circuits in the room and the power of the pump, which is responsible for the circulation of the coolant.

In apartments and houses with an average size of rooms, pipes of 16, 18 or 20 mm are used. The first value is optimal for residential premises, it is balanced in terms of costs and performance. The maximum length of the water floor heating circuit with 16 pipes is 90-100 m, depending on the choice of pipe material. It is not recommended to exceed this indicator, because the so-called “locked loop” effect may form, when, regardless of the pump power, the movement of the coolant in the communication stops due to high fluid resistance.

To choose the best solution and take into account all the nuances, it is better to contact our specialist for advice.

Number of circuits and power

The installation of the heating system must comply with the following recommendations:

One loop per room of a small area or part of a large one; it is irrational to stretch the contour over several rooms.
One pump per manifold, even if the declared capacity is enough to provide two "combs".
With a maximum length of the underfloor heating pipe of 16 mm in 100 m, the collector is installed on no more than 9 loops.

If the maximum length of the underfloor heating loop 16 of the pipe exceeds the recommended value, then the room is divided into separate circuits, which are connected into one heating network by a collector. To ensure an even distribution of the coolant throughout the system, experts advise not to exceed the difference between individual loops of 15 m, otherwise the smaller circuit will warm up much more than the larger one.

But what if the length of the underfloor heating contour of 16 mm pipes differs by a value that exceeds 15 m? Balancing fittings will help, which changes the amount of coolant circulating through each loop. With its help, the difference in length can be almost two times.

Temperature in the rooms

Also, the length of the underfloor heating circuits for 16 pipes affects the level of heating. To maintain a comfortable indoor environment, a certain temperature is needed. To do this, the water pumped in the system is heated to 55-60 °C. Exceeding this indicator can adversely affect the integrity of the engineering communications material. Depending on the purpose of the room, on average, we get:

27-29 °C for living rooms,
34-35 °C in corridors, hallways and walk-through rooms,
32-33 °C in rooms with high humidity.

In accordance with the maximum length of the underfloor heating circuit 16 mm in 90-100 m, the difference at the "inlet" and "outlet" of the mixing boiler should not exceed 5 ° C, a different value indicates heat loss on the heating main.

The maximum length of the contour of a water-heated floor: laying and calculating the optimal value
Laying heating pipes under the floor is considered one of the best options for heating a house or apartment. They consume fewer resources to maintain the specified temperature in the room, exceed standard wall-mounted radiators in terms of reliability, evenly distribute heat in the room, and do not create separate

The modern system of warm water floors is identified with a high level of coziness and comfort. Such a floor effectively heats the room and does not have a harmful effect on the life and health of residents. Such results can only be achieved if the calculations are correctly performed and the installation work is correctly carried out.

A warm water floor can be the main source of heating for a dwelling or serve as an auxiliary heating element. The main calculations of such floors are based on the data of the scheme of work: light heating of the surface to improve comfort or providing full heat to the entire area of \u200b\u200bthe room. The implementation of the second option involves a more complex design of a warm floor and a reliable adjustment system.

Calculations and design are based on several characteristics of the room, as well as the choice of heating option - primary or secondary. Important indicators are the type, configuration and area of \u200b\u200bthe room in which the installation of this type of heating system is planned. The best option is to use a floor plan indicating all the parameters and dimensions necessary for calculations. It is allowed to independently perform the most accurate measurements.

To determine the amount of heat loss, you will need the following data:

type of materials used in the construction process;
glazing option, including the type of profile and double-glazed window;
temperature indicators in the region of residence;
use of additional heating sources;
the exact dimensions of the area of \u200b\u200bthe room;
the expected temperature in the room;
floor height.

In addition, the thickness and insulation of the floor, as well as the type of flooring intended to be used, are taken into account, which have a direct impact on the efficiency of the entire heating system.

When performing calculations, the desired temperature for the room to be equipped should be taken into account.

Underfloor heating pipe consumption depending on the loop pitch

Pitch, mm	Pipe consumption per 1 m2, m p.
100	10
150	6,7
200	5
250	4
300	3,4

Design features

All calculations of water heated floors must be made with the utmost care. Any flaws in the design can only be corrected as a result of the complete or partial dismantling of the screed, which can not only damage the interior finish in the room, but also lead to significant costs of time, effort and money.

living quarters - 29 °C;
areas near the outer walls - 35 ° C;
bathrooms and areas with high humidity - 33 °C;
under parquet flooring - 27 °C.

Short pipes require the use of a weaker circulation pump, which makes the system cost effective. A circuit with a diameter of 1.6 cm should not be longer than 100 meters, and for pipes with a diameter of 2 cm, the maximum length is 120 meters.

Calculation rules

To implement a heating system on an area of 10 square meters, the best option would be:

use of 16 mm pipes with a length of 65 meters;
the flow rates of the pump used in the system cannot be less than two liters per minute;
the contours must have an equivalent length with a difference of no more than 20%;
the optimal indicator of the distance between the pipes is 15 centimeters.

It should be taken into account that the difference between the temperature of the surface and the heating medium can be about 15 °C.

The best way when laying the pipe system is represented by a "snail". It is this installation option that contributes to the most uniform distribution of heat over the entire surface and minimizes hydraulic losses, which is due to smooth turns. When laying pipes in the area of external walls, the optimal step is ten centimeters. To perform high-quality and competent fastening, it is advisable to carry out preliminary marking.

Pipe and power calculations

The data obtained as a result of measurements are the basis for calculating the power of such equipment as a heating heat pump, gas or electric boiler, and also allow you to determine the distance between pipes during installation work.

stainless corrugated type of pipes is characterized by efficiency and high-quality heat transfer;
copper pipes are characterized by a high level of heat transfer and an impressive cost;
cross-linked polyethylene pipes;
metal-plastic version of pipes with an ideal ratio of quality and cost;
foam pipes with low thermal conductivity and affordable price.

The use of special computer programs makes it possible to significantly facilitate calculations and make them as accurate as possible. All calculations must be made taking into account the installation method and the distance between the pipes.

The main indicators characterizing the system are:

the required length of the heating circuit;
uniform distribution of released thermal energy;
the value of the allowable limits of the active heat load.

It should be borne in mind that with a large area of \u200b\u200bthe heated room, it is allowed to increase the laying step with a simultaneous increase in the temperature regime of the coolant. The possible step range for laying is from five to sixty centimeters.

The most common ratios of distances and thermal loads:

a distance of 15 centimeters corresponds to a coolant from 800 W per 10 m²;
a distance of 20 centimeters corresponds to a coolant from 500 to 800 W per 10 m²;
a distance of 30 centimeters corresponds to a coolant up to 500 W per 10 m².

In order to know for sure whether it is enough to use the system as the only source of heating, or whether "warm floors" can only serve as an addition to the main heating, it is necessary to perform a rough, preliminary calculation.

Draft calculations of the thermal circuit

To determine the density of the effective heat flux given off by m² of warm floors, you must use the formula:

g (W/m²) = Q (W) / F (m²)

g is the heat flux density index;
Q is the total indicator of heat loss in the room;
F - floor area proposed for arrangement.

To calculate the Q value, the area of all windows, the average height of the ceilings in the room, the thermal insulation characteristics of floors, walls and roofs are taken into account. When performing underfloor heating as an additional one, it is advisable to determine the total amount of heat loss in the form of a percentage.

When calculating the value of F, only the floor area involved in the process of space heating is subject to consideration. In areas where interior items and furniture are located, free zones with a width of about 50 centimeters should be left.

To determine the average temperature of the coolant in the conditions of the heating circuit, the formula is used:

ΔТ (°С) = (TR + TO) / 2

TR - temperature indicator at the entrance to the heating circuit;
TO - temperature indicator at the exit from the heating circuit.

The recommended temperature parameters in °C for the inlet and outlet for a standard coolant are: 55-45, 50-40, 45-35, 40-30. It should be taken into account that the temperature indicator for the supply cannot be higher than 55 °C, with the temperature condition for the return circuit with a difference of 5 °C.

In accordance with the obtained values of g and ΔТ, the diameter and pitch for pipe installation are selected. It is convenient to use a special table.

At the next stage, the approximate length of the pipes involved in the system is calculated. For this purpose, it is necessary to divide the indicator of the heated floor area in m² by the distance between the laid pipes in meters. To the obtained indicator, add the length margin for bending and connecting to the length, the length for pipe bends and the length for connecting to the collector system are added to the length.

With a known length and diameter of the pipes, the volume indicator and the speed of the coolant are easily calculated, the optimal value of which is 0.15-1 meter per second. At higher travel speeds, increase the diameter of the pipes used.

The correct choice of the pump used in the heating circuit is based on the coolant flow rate with a margin of twenty percent. Such an increase in the indicator corresponds to the parameters of hydraulic resistance in the pipe system. The selection of a load for the circulation of several heating systems consists in matching the power indicators of this equipment with the total flow of all heating circuits in use.

To get the most accurate calculations, it is advisable to seek the advice of professionals specializing in the installation of internal engineering communications.

It is allowed to use an online calculator, which will facilitate the calculations, but will give very approximate calculations that provide general information on the scale of the upcoming installation work.

For heating old and dilapidated buildings that do not have high-quality insulation, it is not advisable to use a system of warm water floors as the only heating element, which is due to a low degree of efficiency and a high level of energy consumption.

The level of technical literacy of all performed calculations has a direct impact on the quality characteristics of the installed heating system. Correct calculations allow you to optimize the financial costs not only for the process of installing water floor heating, but also to minimize costs during the operation and maintenance of the entire heating system.

Video - Calculation of a warm water floor (part 1)

Video - Calculation of a warm water floor (part 2)

One of the conditions for the implementation of high-quality and proper heating of a room with a warm floor is to maintain the temperature of the coolant in accordance with the specified parameters.

These parameters are determined by the project, taking into account the required amount of heat for the heated room and flooring.

Required data for calculation

The efficiency of the heating system depends on a properly laid circuit.

To maintain the set temperature in the room, it is necessary to correctly calculate the length of the loops used to circulate the coolant.

First, you need to collect the initial data on the basis of which the calculation will be performed and which consist of the following indicators and characteristics:

the temperature that should be above the floor covering;
layout diagram of loops with coolant;
distance between pipes;
the maximum possible length of the pipe;
the possibility of using several contours of different lengths;
connection of several loops to one collector and to one pump and their possible number with such a connection.

Based on the above data, it is possible to correctly calculate the length of the underfloor heating circuit and, through this, ensure a comfortable temperature regime in the room with minimal costs for paying for energy supply.

Floor temperature

The temperature on the surface of the floor, made with a water heating device underneath, depends on the functional purpose of the room. Its values should not exceed those specified in the table:

Compliance with the temperature regime in accordance with the above values will create a favorable environment for the work and rest of the people in them.

Pipe laying options used for underfloor heating

Underfloor heating options

In large rooms of complex configuration, it is better to lay with a snail. In rooms of small size and with a variety of complex configurations, snake laying is used.

At the edges of the room, the heating circuit pipe is laid in increments of 10 cm.

Permissible contour length

The length of the circuit must be selected according to the diameter of the pipe

It depends on the pressure in a particular closed loop and hydraulic resistance, the values of which determine the diameter of the pipes and the volume of fluid that is fed into them per unit time.

Based on practical experience, you can adhere to the following recommended sizes:

Less than 100 m can be a loop made of a metal-plastic pipe with a diameter of 16 mm. For reliability, the optimal size is 80 m.
Not more than 120 m take the maximum length of the circuit of 18 mm pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene. Experts are trying to install a circuit with a length of 80-100 m.
No more than 120-125 m, the size of the loop for metal-plastic with a diameter of 20 mm is considered acceptable. In practice, they also try to reduce this length to ensure sufficient reliability of the system.

For a more accurate determination of the size of the loop length for the underfloor heating in the room under consideration, in which there will be no problems with the circulation of the coolant, it is necessary to perform calculations.

Application of several contours of different lengths

The device of the floor heating system provides for the implementation of several circuits. Of course, the ideal option is when all the loops have the same length. In this case, no adjustment and balancing of the system is required, but it is almost impossible to implement such a piping scheme. For a detailed video on calculating the length of the water circuit, see this video:

The difference in pipe lengths is determined by calculation. If it is impossible to perform calculations, a requirement can be applied that allows a difference in the length of the contours of the order of 30-40%.

Also, the difference in the lengths of the loops can be compensated by increasing or decreasing the diameter of the pipe and changing the pitch of its laying.

Ability to connect to one node and pump

Such calculations must be entrusted to specialists with knowledge and practical skills in the implementation of such projects.

The size of the loop depends on the total area of \u200b\u200bthe room

To the result you need to add the length of the pipeline, which will need to be laid from the collector to the warm floor and back. The answer to the key questions of organizing a warm floor, see this video:

You can determine the length of the loop laid in 20 cm increments in a room of 10 m2, located at a distance of 3 m from the collector, by doing the following:

10/0.2*1.1+(3*2)=61 m.

In this room, 61 m of pipe must be laid, forming a heating circuit, in order to ensure the possibility of high-quality heating of the floor covering.

The presented calculation helps to create conditions for maintaining a comfortable air temperature in small separate rooms.

In order to correctly determine the length of the pipe of several thermal circuits for a large number of rooms powered by one collector, it is necessary to involve a design organization.

She will do this with the help of specialized programs that take into account many different factors on which the uninterrupted circulation of water depends, and hence the high-quality floor heating.

In order to avoid unnecessary costs and technological errors that can lead to a partial or complete alteration of the system with your own hands, the calculation of a water-heated floor is made in advance, before laying. The following inputs are required:

The materials from which the housing is built;
Availability of other sources of heating;
Room area;
The presence of external insulation and the quality of the glazing;
Regional location of the house.

You also need to determine what maximum air temperature in the room is required for the comfort of residents. On average, it is recommended to design the contour of the water floor at the rate of 30-33 ° C. However, such high performance during operation may not be necessary, a person feels as comfortable as possible at temperatures up to 25 degrees.

In the case when additional heat sources are used in the house (air conditioner, central or autonomous heating, etc.), the calculation of the warm floor can be oriented to the average maximum values of 25-28 ° С.

Advice! It is strongly not recommended to connect warm water floors with your own hands directly through the central heating system. It is advisable to use a heat exchanger. The ideal option is completely autonomous heating and connecting underfloor heating through a collector to the boiler.

The efficiency of the system directly depends on the material of the pipes through which the coolant will move. 3 types are used:

Copper;
Polyethylene or cross-linked polypropylene;
Metal-plastic.

Copper pipes have maximum heat transfer, but a rather high cost. Polyethylene and polypropylene pipes have low thermal conductivity, but are relatively cheap. The best option in terms of price and quality is metal-plastic pipes. They have a low heat transfer consumption and an acceptable price.

Experienced specialists primarily take into account the following parameters:

Determining the value of the desired t in the room.
Correctly calculate the heat loss of the house. To do this, you can use calculator programs or invite a specialist, but it is also possible to make an approximate calculation of heat losses yourself. An easy way to calculate a warm water floor and heat loss in a room is the average value of heat loss in a room - 100 W per 1 sq. meter, taking into account the ceiling height of not more than 3 meters and the absence of adjacent unheated premises. For corner rooms and those in which there are two or more windows, heat losses are calculated based on a value of 150 W per 1 sq. meter.
Calculation of how much heat loss of the circuit will be for each m2 of the area heated by the water system.
Determination of heat consumption per m2, based on the decorative material of the coating (for example, ceramics have a higher heat transfer than laminate).
Calculation of surface temperature taking into account heat loss, heat transfer, desired temperature.

On average, the required power for every 10 m2 of paving area should be about 1.5 kW. In this case, point 4 in the above list must be taken into account. If the house is well insulated, the windows are made of a high-quality profile, then 20% of the power can be allocated for heat transfer.

Accordingly, with a room area of 20 m2, the calculation will take place according to the following formula: Q = q * x * S.

3kW*1.2=3.6kW, where

Q is the required heating power,

q \u003d 1.5 kW \u003d 0.15 kW is a constant for every 10m2,

x = 1.2 is the average heat loss coefficient,

S is the area of the room.

Before starting the installation of the system with your own hands, it is recommended to draw up a plan, accurately indicate the distance between the walls and the presence of other heat sources in the house. This will allow you to accurately calculate the power of the water floor. If the area of \u200b\u200bthe room does not allow the use of one circuit, then it is correct to plan the system, taking into account the installation of the collector. In addition, you will need to mount a cabinet for the device with your own hands and determine its location, distance to walls, etc.

How many meters is the optimal length of the circuit

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Often there is information that the maximum length of one circuit is 120 m. This is not entirely true, since the parameter directly depends on the diameter of the pipe:

16 mm - max L 90 meter.
17 mm - max L 100 meter.
20 mm - max L 120 meter.

Accordingly, the larger the diameter of the pipeline, the lower the hydraulic resistance and pressure. And that means a longer contour. However, experienced craftsmen recommend not to "chase" the maximum length and choose pipes D 16 mm.

You also need to take into account that thick pipes D 20 mm are problematic to bend, respectively, the laying loops will be more than the recommended parameter. And this means a low level of system efficiency, because. the distance between the turns will be large, in any case, you will have to make a square contour of the cochlea.

If one circuit is not enough to heat a large room, then it is better to mount a double-circuit floor with your own hands. In this case, it is strongly recommended to make the same length of the contours so that the heating of the surface area is uniform. But if the difference in size still cannot be avoided, an error of 10 meters is allowed. The distance between the contours is equal to the recommended step.

Hydraulic pitch between coils

The uniformity of surface heating depends on the pitch of the coil. Usually 2 types of pipe laying are used: snake or snail.

The snake is preferably done in rooms with minimal heat loss and a small area. For example, in a bathroom or corridor (since they are located inside a private house or apartment without contact with the outside environment). The optimal loop pitch for a snake is 15-20 cm. With this type of laying, the pressure loss is approximately 2500 Pa.

Snail loops are used in spacious rooms. This method saves the length of the circuit and makes it possible to evenly heat the room, both in the middle and closer to the outer walls. The loop pitch is recommended within 15-30 cm. Experts say that the ideal step distance is 15 cm. The pressure loss in the cochlea is 1600 Pa. Accordingly, this do-it-yourself installation option is more profitable in terms of system power efficiency (you can cover a smaller usable area). Conclusion: the snail is more efficient, the pressure drops less in it, respectively, the efficiency is higher.

The general rule for both schemes is that closer to the walls, the step should be reduced to 10 cm. Accordingly, from the middle of the room, the contour loops are gradually compacted. The minimum laying distance to the outer wall is 10-15 cm.

Another important point - you can not lay the pipe on top of the seams of concrete slabs. It is necessary to draw up a diagram in such a way that the same location of the loop between the joints of the plate on both sides is observed. For do-it-yourself installation, you can draw a diagram in advance on a rough screed with chalk.

How many degrees are allowed for temperature changes

System design, in addition to heat and pressure losses, implies temperature differences. The maximum difference is 10 degrees. But it is recommended to focus on 5 ° C for uniform operation of the system. If the desired comfort temperature of the floor surface is 30 °C, then the direct pipeline should supply about 35 °C.

Pressure and temperature, as well as their losses, are checked during pressure testing (checking the system before finishing pouring the finishing screed). If the design is done correctly, then the specified parameters will be accurate with an error of no more than 3-5%. The higher the difference t, the higher the power consumption of the floor.

Today it is difficult to imagine a country house without floor heating. Before starting the installation of heating, it is necessary to calculate the length of the pipe, which is used for underfloor heating. Almost every country house has its own heat supply system, the owners of such houses independently install a water floor - if this is provided for by the layout of the premises. Of course, it is possible to install such a warm floor in apartments, but such a process can bring a lot of trouble to both apartment owners and employees. This is due to the fact that it is impossible to bring a warm floor to the heating system, and installing an additional boiler is problematic.

The dimensions and shape of the pipe for underfloor heating can be different, therefore, in order to understand how to calculate a warm floor, you need to understand the system and structure of such a system in more detail.

How can you install underfloor heating?

There are several ways to install underfloor heating. As an example, consider 2 ways.

Grazing. This floor has a flooring made of various materials, such as polystyrene or wood. It is worth noting that such a floor is faster to install and put into operation, since it does not require additional time to fill the screed and dry it.

Concrete. Such a floor has a screed, which will take more time to apply, so if you want to make a warm floor as quickly as possible, then this option will not suit you.

In any case, installing a warm floor is a difficult task, so it is not recommended to carry out this process on your own. If there are no additional funds for employees, then the installation of the floor can be carried out independently, but strictly following the installation instructions.

Underfloor heating concrete installation

Despite the fact that laying a warm floor in this way takes longer, it is more popular. A pipe for a warm floor is selected depending on the materials. It is worth noting that the price of the pipe will also depend on the material from which it is made. The pipe with this method is laid along the contour. After laying the pipe, it is poured with a concrete screed without additional heat-insulating materials.

Calculation and installation of a warm floor

Before proceeding with the installation of the floor, it is necessary to calculate the required number of pipes and other materials. The first step is to divide the room into several identical squares. The number of parts in a room depends on the area of the room and its geometry.

Calculator - the simplest calculation of pipe length:

Calculation of the required amount of pipe

The maximum length of the circuit required for a warm water floor should not exceed 120 meters. It is worth noting that such dimensions are indicated for several reasons.

Due to the fact that water in the pipes can affect the integrity of the screed, if it is installed incorrectly, the floor can be damaged. An increase or decrease in temperature negatively affects the quality of a wooden floor or linoleum. By choosing the optimal size of the squares, you distribute energy and water through the pipes more efficiently.

After the room is divided into parts, you can start planning the shape of the pipe laying.

Methods for laying pipes for underfloor heating

There are 4 ways to lay the pipe:

snake;
Double snake (fits into 2 pipes);
Snail. The pipe is laid in 2 times (bend) leaving one source gradually rounding towards the middle;
Corner snake. Two pipes come out from the same corner: the first pipe starts the snake, the second one ends.

Depending on which pipe laying method you choose, you need to calculate the number of pipes. It is worth noting that pipes can be laid in several ways.

Which styling method should you choose?

In large rooms that have an even square or rectangular shape, it is recommended to use the “snail” laying method, so that a large room will always be warm and cozy.

If the room is long or small, it is recommended to use a "snake".

Laying step

In order for a person’s feet not to feel the difference between the sections of the floor, it is necessary to adhere to a certain length between the pipes, at the edge this length should be about 10 cm, then with a difference of 5 cm, for example, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm .

The distance between the pipes should not exceed 30 cm, otherwise it will be simply unpleasant to walk on such a floor.

Calculation of pipes for underfloor heating

On average, 5 running meters of pipe are needed per 1 m2. This method is easier to determine how many pipes per m2 are needed to equip a warm floor. With this calculation, the step length is 20 cm.
You can determine the required amount of pipe using the formula: L \u003d S / N * 1.1, where:

S is the area of the room.
N - Laying step.
1.1 - pipe margin for turns.

When calculating, it is also necessary to add the number of meters from the floor to the collector and back.
Example:

- Floor area (useful area): 15 m2;
- Distance from floor to collector: 4 m;
- The step of laying the warm floor: 15 cm (0.15 m.);
- Calculations: 15 / 0.15 * 1.1 + (4 * 2) = 118 m.

What should be the length of the water floor heating circuit?

These parameters must be calculated based on the diameter and material from which the pipes are made. So, for example, for metal-plastic pipes with a diameter of 16 inches, the length of the contour of a water-heated floor should not exceed 100 meters. The optimal length for such a pipe is 75-80 meters.

For pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene with a diameter of 18 mm, the length of the contour on the surface for a warm floor should not exceed 120 meters. In practice, this length is 90-100 meters.

For a metal-plastic pipe with a diameter of 20 mm, the maximum length of the warm floor should be approximately 100-120 meters, depending on the manufacturer.

It is recommended to choose pipes for laying on the floor based on the area of \u200b\u200bthe room. It is worth noting that their durability and quality of work depend on what material the pipes are made of and how they are laid on the surface. The best option would be metal-plastic pipes.

Floor installation steps

After you have chosen high-quality and reliable pipes, it is recommended to proceed with the installation of a warm floor. This must be done in several stages.

Installation of thermal insulation

At this stage, preparatory work is carried out, the floor is cleared and a layer of thermal insulation is laid. Styrofoam can act as thermal insulation. Styrofoam layers are laid on the subfloor. The thickness of the foam should not exceed 15 cm. It is recommended to calculate the thickness depending on the size of the room, its location in the apartment, as well as the individual preferences of the person.

Installation of waterproofing

After the foam is laid, it is necessary to lay a layer of waterproofing. Polyethylene film is suitable as a waterproofing. The plastic film is fixed to the walls (near the plinth), and the floor is reinforced with mesh from above.

Laying and fixing pipes

Next, you can lay pipes for underfloor heating. After you have calculated and selected a pipe laying scheme, this process will not take you much time. When laying pipes, they must be fixed on the reinforcing mesh with special stretch marks or clamps.

Crimping

Crimping is almost the last stage in the installation of a warm floor. Pressure testing must be carried out within 24 hours at operating pressure. Thanks to this stage, it is possible to identify and eliminate mechanical damage to pipes.

Pouring with concrete mortar

All flooring work is carried out under pressure. It is worth noting that the thickness of the concrete layer should not exceed 7 cm.

After the concrete has dried, you can lay the floor. As a floor covering, it is recommended to use tiles or linoleum. If you choose parquet or any other natural surface, due to possible temperature changes, such a surface may become unusable.

Collector cabinet and its installation

Before you calculate the pipe flow required for installation on the surface and underfloor heating, you need to prepare a place for the collector.

The collector is a device that maintains pressure in the pipes and heats the used water. Also, this device allows you to maintain the required temperature in the room. It is worth noting that it is necessary to buy a collector depending on the size of the room.

How and where should the manifold cabinet be installed?

There are no restrictions for installing a manifold cabinet, at the same time, there are several recommendations.

It is also not recommended to install the collector cabinet too high, since in the end the circulation of water may occur unevenly. The optimal height for installing the cabinet is 20-30 cm above the bare floor.

Tips for those who decide to install a warm floor on their own

There must be an air outlet in the collector cabinet from above. Laying a warm floor under furniture is strictly prohibited. Firstly, because it will lead to damage to the materials from which the furniture is made. Secondly, it can lead to fire. Materials that are highly flammable can catch fire easily if there is a high temperature in the room. Thirdly, the heat from the floor must constantly rise up, the furniture prevents this, so the pipes heat up faster and can deteriorate.

It is necessary to choose a collector depending on the size of the room. In the store, when buying, you need to pay attention to what dimensions this or that collector is designed for.

Pay attention to the advantages of certain materials from which the pipes are made.

The main qualities of pipes:

wear resistance;
Thermal resistance.

Buy pipes with an average diameter. If the pipe diameter is too large, the water will circulate for a very long time, and reaching the middle or end (depending on the laying method), the water will cool down, the same situation will occur with a pipe with a small diameter. Therefore, pipes with a diameter of 20-40 mm will be the best option.

Before you calculate a warm floor, consult with those who have already done it. Calculation of the area and number of pipes is an important step in preparing for floor installation. In order not to be mistaken, buy + 4 meters of pipe, this will allow you not to save on the pipe if it is not enough.

Before laying pipes, step back from the walls 20 cm in advance, this is the average distance over which the heat from the pipes acts. Calculate your steps wisely. If the distance between the pipes is calculated incorrectly, the room and floor will be heated in strips.

After installing the system, test it, so you can understand in advance whether the collector was installed correctly, as well as notice mechanical damage.

If you install the underfloor heating correctly, it will serve you for many years. If you have any questions, it is better to ask them to an expert of our site or contact specialists who will qualitatively, quickly and reliably improve and prepare your room for installing a warm floor.