In hydronic radiant floor heating systems, plastic pipes are used to deliver heated water from a manifold to the slab. This type of pipe is called a PEX pipe and comes in different sizes. Choosing the right size of PEX piping depends on the heat output required for your home.
A standard PEX pipe size for residential applications is 1/2″ oxygen barrier PEX tubing. This tube size is ideal for most small projects. It provides a good balance of cost and heat output.
When calculating the total number of feet of PEX needed for your project, consider all supply and return circuits as well as any excess fittings. Add this amount to the number of loops needed to calculate the total feet of tubing in your system.
The best PEX pipe for floor heating is cross-linked polyethylene (CPE). It is the most common and durable option for homeowners looking to install a hydronic radiant floor heating system. It is also easy to work with, as it is flexible and can withstand temperature changes in the system.
Another benefit of CPE is that it can be bent, allowing for large square footage coverage without the need for any joints. This makes the system easier to install and reduces the number of weak points that can leak over time. The pipe is also resistant to corrosion and has a lifespan of up to 50 years. This is much longer than the lifespan of copper pipes, which can degrade and develop leaks. floor heating pipe