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Adobe Brick
An unfired, sun-dried brick made from adobe, clay, and straw.
Aerated Concrete
Concrete with air bubbles incorporated into the mix, making
it relatively lightweight.
Aggregate Base
Inert filler material made up of sand, stone, or gravel,
which is used to strengthen cement and form concrete. New pour applications for
radiant heat or heated driveways often use an aggregate base.
Air Duct
A large, thin-walled conduit, usually sheet metal or
fiberglass, used for directing the passage of air through buildings in a traditional
HVAC system. Radiant heating systems can often eliminate the need for air ducts for
heating. Air ducts may still be needed for a cooling system in a home using radiant
heat.
Air Elimination Vent
Device which automatically eliminates trapped air in the
"closed-loop" hydronic system.
Air Expansion Tank
A tank which provides an air cushion for pressure build-up
in a closed system as the water is heated. It helps to maintain the system pressure
at a constant level when the system is operating.
Air Pocket
A void where a poured commodity, such as concrete or
insulating foam, has failed to flow evenly and fill the space as it should.
This is particularly important when pouring concrete around electric radiant
heating cables. Radiant heating cables need to be completely encased in
concrete to act as a heat sink.
Air Relief Valve
A valve to vent air out of a water system such as a
hydronic radiant heating system.
Alternating Current (AC)
An electrical current that reverses its direction at
regularly recurring intervals. Electric radiant heating systems, depending on
their design, can be either AC or DC systems.
Ambient Sensor
A sensor that will measure the ambient temperature.
Can be used as a trigger to turn on a Radiant Heat System.
Ambient Temperature
The temperature of the air in a location. Radiant
heating systems can be designed to work from an ambient or floor temperature.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
The sponsor/publisher of many standards used in
industry.
American Wire Gauge (AWG)
A series of numbers used to identify the diameters of
electrical wire manufactured in the U.S. This standard can apply for stranded
or non-stranded varieties.
Amperage
A measured amount of electrical current expressed in
amps. Radiant snow melting systems require a large amount of amperage and should
be considered in the design phase of any project. Snow melting systems generally
require about 10-12 amps per 100 square feet of snow melting.
Ampere (amp)
A unit of electrical current, analogous to the amount
of flow in a hydraulic circuit measured in gallons per minute.
Anchor
A sturdy attachment point. An anchor may refer to a cable
clip with a nail that secures an electric snow melting cable to asphalt or a hot
glue bead on an interior basement floor prior to a self-leveling compound
application.
Apron
A section of pavement or concrete outside the entrance
to a building or residence such as a loading dock or approach to a road.
Aquastat
A temperature-sensing device on the boiler which
controls the water temperature that is supplied to the radiant panel.
Architect
A person trained in building design and building strength
analysis who uses that knowledge to design structures.
Architects Scale
A type of ruler that shows smaller units representing feet,
such as 1/2" or 1/4" equals 1 foot. The units are used so that all building measurements
will be of equal proportions to the actual measurements, but on a smaller size scale
for the drawings. This gives the architect an accurate reduced-scale representation
of the building.
Architectural Drawings
Floor plans with the foundation details; the wall, floor,
ceiling, and roof construction details; door, window and partition locations; and
sketches of the proposed exterior face of the building.
Area
1) The surface measure of a defined shape expressed in
square units, such as square feet; 2) A defined space; 3) A building site; 4) Land
around a building. The Net Area for radiant heating design refers to the total
heatable area. A bathroom, for example, refers to the floor space minus the
vanity, shower, toilet, etc.
Asphalt
A black, thick, hydrocarbon (bituminous) substance found
in the earth naturally and manmade as a by-product of oil refining. It is commonly
used for waterproofing and paving.
AutoCAD
Computer aided design and drafting. AutoCad is a common program
for viewing layouts and plot plans by Warmzone.
Automatic Air Vent
See: Air Elimination Vent
Automatic Sensor
A self-regulating device, such as a snow sensor, that
detects precipitation and temperature and activates a snow melting system during
storms to clear a driveway or walkway.
Backerboard
A gypsum wallboard designed to be the first layer in a
multiple-layer wall system or the base layer to which acoustical ceiling tile is
applied. Backerboard is also referred to as backing board, cement board, or
Hardibacker board. Backerboard is recommended for under tile projects using
electric radiant heating wires.
Base Material
Material used in paving to compensate for ground swell,
provide drainage, and to support brick pavers. Base material might be gravel,
concrete, or asphalt. Radiant heating cables for snowmelt systems are often
installed on the base material for asphalt and brick paver projects.
Baseboard, Radiant
A system of using the hydronic method of radiant heating
that is often used to augment heat in an area where the floor coverings have already
been installed. Often used in remodeling projects.
Basement
The lowermost portion of a building, located partially
or completely below ground level. Basements are a prime candidate for radiant heating
because of the inherently cold floors and ineffective forced air heating systems.
Bidet
A bidet bathroom fixture is a sit-down wash basin,
similar to a toilet, that features a nozzle or spigot which is used for cleansing
the genital and perineal areas. Bidets are especially common in Europe and Asia,
but are gaining popularity in Northern America.
Binder
An additive, usually starch, used to increase cohesion
in the gypsum core of wallboard. A binder coat also refers to a thinset mortar to
bind tile to the backerboard.
Blacktop
Asphalt paving.
Boiler
An appliance used to heat water for radiant panel and
domestic hot water heating systems. Sometimes referred to as a hot water heater,
it differs dramatically from the common domestic hot water heater used to heat
service water. This is a somewhat antiquated term in the context of radiant heat
because the water temperature supplied by a "boiler" to a radiant system should
never exceed 180°F. Steam is not used and therefore no water need ever be boiled.
Modern boilers are, in essence, on demand water heaters usually fired by gas,
fuel oil, electricity, or wood.
BTU
Abbreviation for "British Thermal Unit." It is a traditional
measurement for the amount of heat needed to raise one pound of water 1°F from a
starting point of 39.2°F. BTUH stands for British Thermal Unit Per Hour to measure
BTU input or output over time. MBH stands for 1,000 BTUH.
Building Code
The requirements to be met during construction as set forth
by a recognized authority, usually the city in which the building will take place. The
Uniform Building Code is a nationally recognized code and is widely used throughout
the country. Laws in individual municipalities or other jurisdictions may vary slightly
or include additional requirements or modifications to the Uniform Building Code.
Building Permit
An authorization from the local building inspection agency to
construct or modify a building from an approved set of plans.
Cable Box
An electrical box which protects wire terminations and
connections and serves as a mounting device for outlets and switches.
Cable Plan
A drawing that shows cable routing, electrical terminations,
and the number of wires for each box. The drawing is made by the architect, building
designer, or electrical system designer for the electrician to use in wiring the
building.
CADD
Computer aided design and drafting. AutoCad is a common program
for viewing layouts and plot plans by Warmzone.
California Title 24 Energy Requirements
California building regulations for energy design requirements
for new and remodeled homes.
Carpet
A floor covering made of natural or synthetic woven fibers.
Not the preferred floor covering for to conduct radiant heat, but can work if carpet
and carpet pad have a low R-Value. See: R-Value, Carpet Pad.
Carpet Pad
Cushion used between the carpet and slab or subfloor.
Radiant heating systems encourage a carpet pad with an R-Value of 2 or less.
Caulk
A sealant used to fill small gaps in surfaces or between
joints. The compound is available in tubes or in cartridges that fit a caulking gun.
Caulk is used as a sealant in retrofit snow melting systems to seal grooves that
have been saw cut into concrete or asphalt.
Cement Board
A 1/2"-thick sheet material of concrete and fiberglass
used as underlayment in showers, on countertops, and other places where a moisture
barrier is desired. The sheets are installed in much the same manner as gypsum
drywall. The 3’x5’ sheets are cut to size and fastened to the
structural backing, such as the cabinet base or wall studs, using drywall
screws. Joints between panels are sealed with drywall joint tape and thinset
mortar or whatever adhesive is to be used to set the tile. The surface covering
is then applied according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Cement Mortar
A mixture of Portland cement, sand, and water.
Center-to-Center
A measurement from the centerline of one object to
the centerline of another.
Ceramic Tile
Flat tiles made from clay and other silicon materials,
such as sand or quartz. Most popular floor covering used for bathrooms and ideal
for single-zoned, electric floor heating systems.
Chalk Line
The straight line formed by snapping a string covered
with chalk powder against a surface. Chalk lines are often used to guide the
installation of straight runs of radiant heating tubing or electric radiant
elements.
Circuit Breaker
An automatic electrical switch that interrupts an
electrical circuit when the current exceeds safe limits. The circuit breaker
can be reset when the problem that caused it to interrupt the current has
been corrected.
Circuit Voltage
The amount of voltage in a specific electrical
circuit. 110 voltage is used for small electric radiant projects while 220
voltage is used for larger areas and snow melting systems.
ClearZone
An industry-leading heat cable used for radiant snow melting
systems. The cable is available in rolls or pre-spaced in mats for easy installation.
Special ClearZone heating cable is also available for hot asphalt applications.
Climastar
Climastar manufactures unique, stone facade wall-mounted
heaters. The heaters are designed to use about one-fourth of the power that is
used by conventional heaters. Climastar also produces energy-efficient towel
warmers.
Closed Circuit
An electrical circuit that is complete and continuous.
Cobble
A paving stone used most often today in decorative
applications, such as for masonry walls or walkways. Radiant snow melting is
recommended for these areas to prevent plow scarring in winter or chemical
damage from salts.
Cold Joint
A mortar or concrete joint where mortar or concrete
is placed against mortar or concrete that has already set.
ComfortTile
ComfortTile is a radiant heating product from Warmzone
that is one of the thinnest heating systems available for under tile. ComfortTile
uses a stainless steal metal braid for protection and has no detectable EMFs. This
electric radiant heating cable has been pre-assembled and is self-terminated
making it one of the only systems that offers a single source hookup for convenience.
The ComfortTile system comes complete with custom straps to secure and properly space
the heating cables, a LoudMouth monitor for safe installation and to alert you of any
shorts in the cable. A custom GFCI protected digital thermostat is also included.
Concealed Tubing Leak
A condition where a "closed-loop" radiant panel tube embedded
in the concrete loses water. 90% of all home radiant leaks are never visible and require
a pressure test for detection.
Concrete
A mixture of cement, sand, and aggregate which, when mixed
with the proper proportion of water, solidifies through chemical reaction into a
structural material with good compressive strength.
Concrete Saw
A power saw, with a Carborundum or diamond blade, used for
cutting hardened concrete. This type of saw is often water-cooled. Saw cutting into
an existing area of concrete is the only way to effectively heat a driveway without
tearing it out.
Conduction
1) The transfer of heat between objects of different
temperature; 2) The flow of electricity or fluid.
Conductor
1) A material that allows electricity to pass through it;
2) A material that conducts heat, sound, or other energy forms.
Conduit
A tube made of metal, plastic, or other material used to
protect electrical wiring from damage or moisture. Conduits are often required by
the NEC to run wires back to a junction box for exterior radiant heating systems.
Conduit Box
An electrical box at which electrical conduit is terminated.
The conduit box serves as both the termination point for the conduit and as a container
in which electrical wires can be terminated, redirected, or joined. Also called a
junction box.
Control Joint
A joint between sections of a structure designed to permit
differential movement between the structures. Control joints and expansion joints need
to be considered in any heated driveway or walkway design to allow for enough material
to dip down below them for slack if movement occurs.
Convection Heat
The transfer of heat from your body caused by the movement of
air around you.
Crimping Tool
A tool designed to crimp or squeeze an electrical connector
tightly around a conductor.
Current, Electrical
The quantity of electrical flow.
Degradation
The disintegration or deterioration of the tubing metal beyond a
repairable condition.
Direct Current (DC)
Electrical current that flows in one direction, from the negative to
the positive terminal of the source.
Distribution Manifold
A device used to connect the system distribution piping to a common
source. It is usually located on the return side of the system within a closet or the garage and
contains valves used to change the water flow rate in the piping. Each area of the home will
normally have an individual balance valve. It is by the flow rate adjustment that the heat can
be balanced, increased, or decreased in individual rooms.
Domestic Water Retrofit
The replacement of the domestic hot and cold water system with a new
piping system.
Downspout
The pipe or duct used to carry water from a gutter to the
ground.
Duct
Thin-wall sheet metal or lightweight tubular conduit used for
conveying air at low pressure; may be round, square, or rectangular. Ducts are used in HVAC
heating systems while radiant heating systems bypass them by circulating water under the floor
surface.
Eave
The edge of a roof that projects beyond the exterior walls of a
structure. Eaves are problem areas for ice damming and other ice problems. Heating eaves can be
done using electric heating cables.
Eave Flashing
Roofing material that is laid along the eave line and extended up the
roof under the shingles.
Electrician
A person trained, skilled, and licensed in electrical wiring
installations. License requirements and other regulations regarding the electrical profession
vary in different locations.
Electrolysis
A chemical reaction resulting in the degradation of the tubing
metals.
Electronic Ignition
An intermittent device that automatically lights the pilot flame and
main burner of the boiler when the system calls for heat.
Energy Efficiency
The use of less fuel to make your home comfortably warm.
Equipment Ground
A grounding wire, separate from the system ground, to a piece of
equipment or to a receptacle. The equipment ground will direct electricity from a faulty motor
or other piece of electrical equipment to the grounding wire, thus preventing a person touching
the defective equipment from inadvertently becoming the ground and being electrocuted.
Evaporation
The transfer of heat from your body caused by water drying on your
skin.
Expansion Joint
Strips of rubber or flexible material used to separate units of
concrete. Because they can be compressed, they give the concrete room to expand with temperature
changes. Expansion joints prevent cracking. When designing a new pour concrete area for snow
removal, tell your Warmzone representative how many expansion joints you will install.
Expansion Tank
A closed tank in a hot water system or radiant heating system that
provides space for the expansion of water in the system as it is heated. The tank contains both
water and air. As the water expands, the air in the tank is compressed.
Fast Response
There is always a time delay between when a thermostat calls for
heat and when any heating system responds to that need. In traditional slab-based radiant
systems, this can take hours. Low-mass systems, like InfloorBoard, that use aluminum to transfer
heat are fast response materials that respond to small temperature changes in minutes, and can
bring your home up to temperature from a cold start in an hour or two.
Fault
1) Failure in part of an electrical circuit; 2) A break and
dislocation in the continuity of the earth’s structure.
Flash Water Heater
See: Tankless Water Heater
Flat Grain
Wood that has been sawn at a tangent to the growth rings of the
tree.
Flooring, Parquet
Wood flooring in patterns.
Flooring, Strip
Wood flooring in narrow strips.
Flooring, Vinyl
A floor covering made primarily of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
Forced Air Heating
A heating system using fans, ducts, and a furnace/heat pump. An area is
heated by convection when warm air is forced and circulated into the living space. Only the air
is heated by this system. Warm air is "blown" into the living space at 110-115°F.
Forced Air Heating System
A heating system that circulates warm air from a heat source through
the ducting by means of a blower fan.
Foundation
The base or portion of a structure that is in contact with the ground,
usually extending below grade.
Frost Heave
The upward movement of an object or structure caused by the freezing
and consequent expansion of water in the soil under the object or structure.
Fuel Source
The medium used by the boiler to heat water or liquid. This can be
natural gas, propane, oil, electricity, wood, coal, or a combination of these.
Furnace
A device in which heat is generated by burning a fuel. The heat may be
used to process something, such as refining an ore, or for heating air for comfort.
General Contractor
The contractor who has overall responsibility for a construction project.
Subcontractors work under the direct control of the general contractor who makes up the schedules,
coordinates the tasks, and supervises the activities of everyone on the job.
Geo Thermal
The earth itself can be a source of heat. Geo Thermal appliances are
used in conjunction with a closed tubing loop that is installed underground. This type of an
alternative energy pulls heat from the earth in the form of water and compresses it to higher
temperatures.
GPM
Gallons per minute.
Gradient
The amount of slope to a grade, usually expressed as a percentage.
The percentage is determined by dividing the rise of the grade in feet over a 100-foot length by
100. For example, a 5-foot rise in grade over a distance of 100 feet is a 5% gradient.
Gravel
A coarse aggregate of small rocks.
Gravity Warm Air Heating System
A system that uses natural convection to circulate warm air through
ducting on the principle that warm air, being lighter than cold air, rises.
Green Concrete
Concrete that has not yet set up.
Grommet
A ring used as reinforcement for a hole in metal or fabric, such as
the reinforcement around the holes in a tarp. See: WarmTrax.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
A circuit breaker designed to protect people from electrical shock.
Ground Fault Equipment Protector (GFEP)
A circuit breaker specifically designed to protect equipment from
tripping too often by allowing a higher tolerance of milliamps.
Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI)
A type of circuit breaker designed to protect equipment from continued
electrical current in case of a circuit fault. The current in the hot wire and the neutral wire
of an AC circuit are normally the same. However, if a fault in the circuit allows some of the
current to leak to a ground, there will be a difference between them. The GFI monitors the
current flow and opens the circuit if it detects a difference of more than 4 to 6 milliamps.
This sensing and interruption takes place in less than 1/10th of a second, preventing damage to
electrical equipment.
Ground Wire
A wire used in an electrical circuit to connect the circuit to the
ground.
Ground, Electrical
A conductive connection which provides a path for electrical current
to pass from an electrical component into the earth.
Grout
A thin, fluid mortar made of a mixture of Portland cement, fine
aggregate, lime, and water, and used for finishing mortar joints and filling voids.
Gutter
1) A trough at, or slightly below, the eaves of a building which
catches and redirects the flow of rain water from the roof; 2) The water-gathering depression at
the curb edge of a street. See: Gutter Melt Systems, ways to prevent ice damming and gutter
damage.
Gyp Board
A term for gypsum wallboard. See: Tile Heat.
Gypsum
Hydrous calcium sulfate used as a core for drywall.
Gypsum Concrete
A mix of gypsum aggregates and water.
Hazardous Electrical Location Classifications
The National Electrical Code (NEC) includes Class I – areas which
have flammable gases or vapors in explosive or burnable quantities; Class II – areas with
combustible dust; Class III – areas with easily-ignitable fibers or particles.
Heat Exchanger
A device inside a boiler that transfers heat from the burning fuel to
the boiler water. The hot water in the boiler is then circulated to radiators, indirect water
heaters, hydro-air coils, radiant floor tubing, or other heat-distribution devices.
Heat Sink
A metal shape with good heat conductivity used to draw heat away from
an area or component. Heat sinks are used widely in electronics to keep heat from sensitive
circuit parts during soldering.
Heat Transfer
The movement of heat energy by radiation, convection, or evaporation
from one source to another.
Heat, Hydronic Radiant Panel
A radiant panel system using hot water from a boiler or other source
to heat the radiant panel. The boiler distributes the heat to the panel by circulating hot water
through copper, steel, plastic, or rubber tubing usually embedded in the panel. The living space
is heated by radiation.
Heated Bidet
A bidet with heated toilet seat and temperature controlled water (for
use with the bidet nozzle). See also: bidet.
Heater Baseboard
A heating unit with a low profile that fits along the baseboard.
Heating Panel
A heating system using a panel, usually of concrete which, when heated,
provides warmth into the living space by absorbing heat from one source and radiating it to
another source.
Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
The system and process of regulating temperatures and atmosphere inside
residential or commercial buildings.
Helium Spectrographic Analysis
Helium gas is injected into the distribution tubing at low pressure and
the spectrograph "sniffs" the helium molecule. If there is a leak in the system, because of the
properties of the helium molecule, the small size allows it to leak from the closed radiant
system and penetrate into the home through all types of floor coverings. The results are a precise
location of all the leaks, both large and small. Only a spectrograph with a sensitivity level of
one part per billion is acceptable and 100% successful for the detection.
Hertz (Hz)
Cycles per second in electricity and acoustics.
High Mass
High mass refers to systems that use various heavy (high mass)
materials, such as concrete, to store heat. High mass is a form of passive control for a heating
system that can be very effective when used with solar heating. These systems can store solar
heat during the day, when you may need very little heat, and give off their heat at night, when
more heat is needed. High mass systems do not produce heat; they merely cause a delay between
when heat is put into a radiant panel and when it comes out.
Hot Wire
The high-voltage electrical conductor in an electrical circuit.
Hydronic
Any form of hot water-based heating system is referred to as
hydronic.
Hydronic Baseboard Retrofit
The installation of a new heating system when the existing radiant
panel or other heating system is no longer usable. It distributes the heat into the living space
through hot water baseboard enclosures installed around the inside perimeter. The heating of the
space is by convection without the use of any fans.
ICC
The International Code Council is the largest and most respected
organization in charge of regulating the building industry. They are responsible for the
International Building Code (IBC). Their evaluation service (ICC-ES) evaluates and certifies the
safety and effectiveness of building materials.
Indirect Water Heating
The heating of water with a storage tank using an internal heat exchanger
to separate the system water from the house supply water. An external heating source, such as a
boiler, is required for this extremely efficient hot water heating system.
Insulating Properties
The ability of a material to impede the transfer of heat.
Insulation Rating
The number assigned to a form of insulation to denote its
effectiveness.
Insulation, Reflective
A type of insulation material employing a surface that reflects heat.
Aluminum foil, sheet metal, and paper products coated with a reflective oxide compound are some
of the reflective materials used to back insulating surfaces.
Insulation, Thermal
Materials used to minimize the flow of heat in or out of objects, such
as steam pipes, refrigeration units, or buildings. Heat transfer through an insulator occurs by
conduction or radiation. Although no material can completely prevent this transfer, materials can
be selected which give the best insulation for a specific application.
Joist
A horizontal structural member that supports the load of a floor or
ceiling.
Jumper
A wire used between two points in an electrical circuit to make a
connection and/or to temporarily bypass part of the circuit.
Junction Box (J-Box)
A metallic or nonmetallic box designed with knockouts in the sides
and back, used to support and protect electrical wire connections or conductor splices. One or
more connections can be made within one box. There are several sizes and configurations of boxes
available for use with different wire sizes and quantities. The NEC (National Electrical Code)
limits the numbers and sizes of wires that can be routed into each box size.
Kilowatt
1000 watts.
Kilowatt-hour
Measurement of electrical energy usage equal to one thousand watts in
one hour. National average is about $.08.
Knockout
Circles of various sizes, factory-stamped into the sides of an
electrical box, which can easily be punched out to form a hole through which wiring can be
fed.
Lag Period
The time between when the concrete slab (radiant panel) is warmed by the
boiler water and heat is radiated into the living space.
Lead
Electric current that escapes its boundaries.
Leads
Electrical wires connected on one end to a meter, instrument, battery,
or other electrical or electronic item and on the other end to a circuit or component.
Leveling Bed
A bed of mortar in which pavers are set. A self leveler is often used
for uneven concrete floors and for embedding radiant heating cables that might otherwise be too
thick for the thinset.
Leveling Course
A layer of course pavement used to prepare the surface for a clean
level surface for the final pavement course which is a finer finishing mixture.
License
A formal authorization granted by a legal agency to perform specific
tasks in a project. An inspection or license may be required for the installation of a radiant
heating system.
Lift
The height or thickness of concrete that can be placed in one continuous
pour or a vertical layer of concrete as placed in a tall form.
Lightweight Concrete
A concrete that weighs 90 to 110 pounds per cubic foot because of the
use of lightweight aggregate. Regular concrete weighs approximately 150 pounds per cubic
foot.
Lime
A caustic form of calcium oxide used in cement, mortar and
plaster.
Linear Foot
A foot of distance (12 inches) measured in a line along a surface, or
the surface of a material such as conduit or piping. Also called a lineal foot.
Lineman’s Pliers
Pliers with a tapered blunt nose and side cutters as part of the jaws.
They are a multi-purpose tool, but used primarily for working with wire. The handles are covered
with insulated vinyl to protect electricians and linemen from shock when cutting live wire. Also
called elctrician’s pliers or side-cutting pliers.
Linoleum
A tile or sheet floor covering of ground cork, wood filler and pigment,
held together by linseed oil or other binders which solidify, and then backed with
felt.
Live
An electrical circuit or connection with power applied.
Load Distribution Center
An electrical panel, containing circuit protection devices, from which
circuits are routed throughout a house or building. Also called a service
panel.
Loops
Hydronic radiant systems heat a home by circulating hot water through
tubing placed in evenly spaced layouts under the finished floor of the home. There are limits to
the length of a tube that water can be efficiently pumped through. It is accepted hydronic
practice to limit the length of any single circuit of 1/2" tubing to less than 350 feet. Each of
these circuits is called a loop. Most homes will have their floor area heated by a varying number
of these loops.
Low Mass
Low mass refers to a system where the weight of panel material is
specifically reduced in order to speed up the reaction time between when heat is called for and
when it is delivered. A low-mass, radiant floor heating system has performance qualities that
include fast response time, easy to control room temperatures, and lower design water
temperatures.
Manifold
A main header or run of piping from which auxiliary or branch piping is
run to distribute liquids and gases to multiple locations. Headers are generally larger in diameter
than branch piping. A junction at which various tubing loops meet. Made of brass, copper, or
plastic, with a header and several ports to interface with PEX tubing. Designed to install in a
closet wall, between the studs, with an access door.
Manufacturer
To make something from raw materials, either by hand or machine. Having
parts made elsewhere and then assembled does not constitute a manufacturer.
Marble
Crystallized limestone valued in architecture and sculpture for its
durability and beauty. Marble is brittle and must be carefully installed and well supported in
any application. Radiant heat conducts very well under marble and is often used to remove the
chill they are known to have.
Mastic Spreader
A hand tool with a thin metal blade. The blade has a serrated edge for
spreading mastic in ridges. The spaces between the ridges permit the mastic to spread out when
the pieces to be joined are pressed together. Also called mastic trowel.
Mat
1) a smooth, flat layer of concrete, asphalt, or similar material
forming a structural surface. 2) Radiant Heating Mat uses electric resistance wires that are
usually sewn into a webbing or mat for proper spacing. See: QuickNet.
MBH
Gas inputs are expressed in MBH, which is thousands of BTU/hour.
Medium Curing Cutback
Asphalt which is thinned with kerosene to keep it liquid at lower
temperatures.
Membrane
A thin coating or sheet of material, usually water-resistant, such as
the thin polyethylene sheets used to water-proof roof or floor surfaces. Membrane sheets can limit
vapor release from concrete once it is heated with radiant heating tubing or electric radiant
heating cables.
Metal Drip Edge
A preformed piece of sheet metal placed along the edge of a roof to
encourage water runoff to drip off the edge of the roof rather than flow back under the shingles
or eaves.
Metal Lath
Thin metal sheets that have been expanded or stretched and then stamped
through with a slotted pattern giving them a screen-like appearance. Metal lath is used as backing
and structural support for plaster and mortar. Metal lat is not recommended with electric radiant
heating wires or cables. If a lath is used a plastic lath is preferred.
Mineral Insulated, Metal Sheathed Cable (MI Cable)
Electrical cable in which the electrical conductors are insulated with
compressed mineral refractory material and enclosed in a liquid and gas-tight copper sheathing. The
type of cable can be embedded, used on the interior or exterior of buildings in wet or dry
locations, used in hazardous or explosive situations, or under any conditions except where the
copper sheathing may be corroded away.
Moisture
Water in small and diffused quantities.
Moisture Vapor Transmission
A measure, in perms, of the amount of water vapor that passes though a
material. A perm is one grain of water vapor per square foot, per hour, per inch of mercury
pressure differential (.491 psid).
Mortar
A mixture of Portland cement, lime and sand used to fill voids in masonry
units, bond them together, and add support.
Mounted Tile
Ceramic tile that has been manufactured and factory-assembled into sheets
to hold the pieces of tile together and evenly spaced. Mounted tile is easy to work with and can
save you time during your installation.
Mud
Construction slang for mortar or gypsum wallboard joint
compound.
Natural Gas
Methane, a gas formed in the earth in oil-bearing areas, that is used
to fuel furnaces, water heaters, and radiant heating boilers.
NEC
National Electrical Code.
Net Floor Area
The floor area not covered by partitions, stairs, and other construction features; usable floor area.
Neutral
1) not transmitting power; 2) not reactive; 3) neither acid nor base.
Neutral Conductor
The second wire (white) of a two-wire AC electrical system that carries the return electrical current from an electrical load.
Non corrosive Flux
A flux and its residue that do not corrode the base metal. For example, chemicals are used which isolate heated metal from oxygen in the air and so prevent, dissolve, or aid in the removal of oxidation during welding, brazing, or soldering. Preventing oxidation permits better metal flow in the joint and stops the formation of a corrosive residue on the base metal. A corrosive flux used with copper will leave behind a surface coating that will eventually oxidize the copper and turn it green.
Nonconductor
An insulator; a material that does not conduct much electricity or heat. Carpet can be considered a poor conductor of heat for any radiant heating system. Carpet pad designed with a low R-Value coupled with carpet that is not extremely thick will promote better conductivity.
Nonmetallic Sheathed Electrical Cable (NM)
Cable used for electrical wiring within the building structure. It consists of individually insulated conductors within an outer protective insulating sheath.
Nonmetallic Sheathed Electrical Cable (NMC)
Cable used for electrical wiring in moist areas. This wire consists of individually insulated conductors within an outer protective insulating sheath that is cast tightly around the insulation of the inner conducting wires. This type of cable can be used inside in damp or wet areas or outside where it may be exposed to weather, such as a Heated Driveway or exterior lighting.
Notch
A cut or recess, often V-shaped, in the surface of an object made from
that metal.
Ohm
A unit of electrical resistance.
Ohm’s Law
A series of formulas describing the relationship between current, voltage,
and resistance. Current (I) equals voltage (E) divided by resistance R in Ohms(Ω), or I=E/R.
This relationship can be used to solve for any one of these three values if the other two are known.
Ohm’s law applies to all electrical circuits, and is therefore valuable in sizing circuit
components and wiring. In some cases Ohm's law uses the letter E to represent voltage. E
denotes electromotive force.
Ohmmeter
A device for measuring electrical resistance.
On Center (OC)
The distance between items as measured from the centerline of one item
to the centerline of the next. For example, floor joists that are placed 24" on center, measure
24" from the centerline of one joist to the centerline of the next. This measurement is used to
determine which size of our RetroHeat product you need.
Open Circuit
An electrical circuit that has a break, or is “open,” so
that the current cannot flow through.
Open Valley
A type of roof installation in which the valley flashing is left exposed
rather than being covered over by shingles. Water running off the shingles will be directed into
the valley and run down the metal flashing and off the roof.
Overcurrent
Electrical current that exceeds the limit of the equipment or amperage
load of the circuit.
Overcurrent Protection
A device that interrupts an electrical circuit if the current, or current
and temperature, in the circuit exceeds a preset amount.
Overload
An electrical current demand that is greater than the rated current.
An electrical overload causes protective devices to actuate, such as burning out a fuse or
tripping a circuit breaker.
Panelboard
An electrical cabinet in which circuit breakers are mounted and
connected to wiring. In a residence, the three wires from the service entrance conduit enter
the panelboard and are connected to three bus bars in the panel. Two of the leads are hot and
one is neutral. The circuit neutral and ground wires are connected to the neutral bus bar in
the panelboard. The circuit hot wire is connected to the circuit breaker. Circuit breakers are
plugged into the panel and connect to a hot bus bar for 120 volt general service use, and to
both hot bus bars for 240 volt service. The 240 volt service is used for items like an oven,
heated driveway system using electric radiant heating cables etc.
Parallel Lines
Straight lines that remain the same distance apart along their lengths.
Snow melting cables and other radiant heating cables or wires are used in a parallel lines for
their layout.
Parquet Flooring
Wood flooring in which pieces of wood are positioned at angles to one
another to form patterns. They are laid on a subfloor or underlayment.
Paving Brick
Brick used for outdoor paving applications. They are made of clay or
shale and sometimes burned hard so they vitrify, providing a wear-resistant surface. Snow melting
systems are popular under paving bricks for convenience and protection from snow plow scarring or
harsh chemicals. Snow melting salts leave a white residue around the edges of the bricks year
round.
Paving Brick Base, Flexible
A paving brick base that can move easily, such as compacted sand or
gravel. It is often used where brick is installed without mortar. It provides a stable base, good
drainage, and prevents moisture from working its way up from the soil beneath.
Paving Brick Base, Rigid
A non-moving base, such as a reinforced concrete slab.
Paving Brick Base, Semi-rigid
A base, such as asphalt paving, that provides some degree of
flexibility for brick laid without mortar.
Paving Machine
An asphalt placing machine that spreads and levels asphalt to a
predetermined depth. The paving machine rides on either movable tracks or tires. Ask a Warmzone
representative what types of paving machines are acceptable for installation over snow melting
systems.
Paving or Pavement
Road or parking lot surface intended to provide wear resistance and
smoothness. Paving usually consist of a wear surface, such as concrete, over aggregate subbase
material, such as gravel, placed over compacted subgrade soil. Asphaltic concrete, a common
paving material, is a mixture of asphalt and gravel which is laid over a gravel subbase. Radiant
heating systems in pavement need to consider the high temperatures of the material and contact a
consultant at Warmzone for more information.
Percent Grade
The rise or fall of the grade divided by the distance over which the
rise or fall is measured. This calculation yields a decimal figure which is then multiplied by
100 to obtain the percent grade. The percent grade is important in evaluating the proposed slope
of a parking lot, driveway road or other passage route, because the steeper the grade, the harder
it will be to use or traverse. Too steep a grade can make a roadway hazardous or impassable
especially in regions that are prone to receiving snow or ice. A heated driveway system may be
appropriate yet difficult to install in steep grades due to the added stress or stretching of the
snow melting cables. Contact a Warmzone consultant for installation guidelines.
Perimeter Heat Loss
Heat loss through the perimeter, or outside surfaces, of a building
which are exposed to the exterior elements. Effective wall insulation, double-pane windows, and
insulated doors can be used to help control this heat loss.
Permeability
A measure of the ability of water to flow through a material, such as
concrete.
PEX Tubing
PEX is an acronym for cross linked polyethylene. PE refers to
polyethylene, and the X refers to the cross linking across its molecular chains. This type of
tubing is used for domestic plumbing and radiant floor heating. Used since 1973, with many billions
of feet installed, it is proven to be the most durable and reliable tubing in the
world.
Pigtail
A length of electrical wire with a plug on the end attached to the
electrical terminals of an appliance, such as a clothes dryer, to bring power to that appliance.
Commonly called the cord or electrical cord. Warmzone products like our electric
radiant towel warmers
can be hard wired, or use a pigtail for plug-in usage.
Pigtail Splice
A simple electrical wire splice in which the ends of the wires are
twisted together. It is used to connect new wiring to old wiring. The wires are insulated so that
no bare wire is left exposed.
Pilot
A small flame which ignites the main burner when the system calls for
heat.
Plank
A rectangular cross section board that is more than 6" wide and more
than 1" thick.
Plastic Conduit
Electrical conduit made from PVC or other plastic material. It is more
economical and easier to work with than metal conduit.
Plastic Electrical Boxes
Electrical boxes made of polyester, fiberglass or PVC designed for use
with nonmetallic cable.
Plot Plan
A plan view drawing of a structure which includes the dimensions of the
building site, the location of the structure in relation to the property boundaries, elevation of
key points, existing and finish contour lines, utility services, and compass directions.
Pneumatic Roller
A paving machine with wide, smooth, air-filled tires used to compact the
surface by rolling over it. It is used for compacting clay soils because the clay does not adhere
to the roller.
Polarity
The direction of electric current flow through a circuit indicating the
positive or negative charge of the current. In direct current, there are two poles, one positive and
one negative. Current flow is from negative to positive.
Pole
The number of hot wires that are connected to an electrical circuit
breaker. For example, a single-pole switch has one hot wire and a double-pole switch has two hot
wires.
Pole, Single Pole and Double Pole
The number of hot wires that are connected to an electrical circuit
breaker. For example, a single-pole switch has one hot wire, and a double-pole switch has two hot
wires.
Potentiometer
A variable resistor that is used for control, such as the volume control
on a radio. It divides the voltage in a way that is proportional to its resistance. It consists,
in one form, as a wiper or slider that can be moved across fixed contacts, which varies the
resistance. The greater the resistance, the less electricity flows through the potentiometer. To
one extreme of the wiper’s movement, there is a maximum resistance and no electricity flow.
At the other extreme, there is no added resistance, and electricity flow is a its maximum for the
circuit in which the potentiometer is located.
Pounds per Square Inch (PSI)
Pounds per square inch is a measure of pressure, a load applied by one
commodity on another. Fluid pressure, which includes both liquid and gas, is measured in terms of
either pounds per square inch absolute or pounds per square inch gauge. This measurement should
be considered for insulation under concrete for snow melting systems or radiant heating in new
pour construction.
PowerBlanket
The PowerBlanket is an extremely durable outdoor heating blanket
typically used for concrete curing, ground thaw, engine warming, bucket and barrel heating, snow
melting, and even as heaters for small work areas.
Pressure Reducing Valve
A safety device which supplies the boiler with reduced water pressure
from the city supply. The normal pressure setting is 12 PSI. It also maintains the boiler water
level should a loss of water occur in the panel.
Pressure Relief Valve
A safety device which releases boiler and system pressure should it
exceed a preset level. The normal pressure setting of these devices for the low pressure boiler
is 30-45 PSI. The preset level should never exceed the operating pressure of the boiler.
Pressure Switch
An adjustable safety device which prevents boiler operation when the
system pressure falls below the preset level, usually 5 PSI. It helps prevent boiler coil and
heat exchanger damage by preventing the boiler from firing during an unsafe low water pressure
condition.
Pressure Test
A hydrostatic (water) test of the concealed radiant panel used to
determine the "tightness" and "leak-free" condition of the tubing. The test should always result
in "no loss" of the pressure and be performed in accordance with Code-approved procedures. The
introduction of helium, nitrogen, oxygen, or other type of air to pressurize the system for
testing is not an acceptable test and will likely result in inaccurate conclusions.
Pressure/Temperature Gauge
A device which monitors water pressure and temperature of the heating
system.
Primary Heat
Primary heating systems are intended to be used as the sole source of
heating or at least the main source of heating. Ambient Thermostats
are generally used for primary radiant heating opposed to a floor sensor that thermostatically controls
a system based on floor temperature.
PSI
Pounds per square inch.
Pump
1) A device used to circulate water throughout the boiler and
distribution tubing. The unit can be water or oil lubricated. Proper pump sizing is essential to
provide adequate heat for the home; 2) A device that raises, moves, or compresses fluids by
pressure or suction. Electric pumps are required on all radiant hydronic systems.
Quarter Sawn
Wood that has been cut from a log quartered lengthwise and at an angle
of at least 45 degrees between the board face and the annular growth rings. This method of cutting
lessens the warpage and shrinkage of the lumber. Radiant heating systems under hardwood should use
a quarter sawn selection or a species of hardwood that is resistant to warping and cupping. Plain
sawn is the other common cut of hardwood used for flooring yet is not as resistant to warping like
a quarter sawn variety.
QuickNet
A radiant heating mat product that uses a high quality resistance wire and a mat that has an adhesive on the back for easy installation. QuickNet is ideal for small to medium sized areas and can be easily zoned for separate thermostats.
R-Value
A unit of measure of thermal resistance. The higher the value, the
better the heat-insulating capabilities of the material. For example, an 8” lightweight
concrete block has an R-Value of 2.00 and a 1/2” sheet of plywood has an R-Value of .63. The
concrete block has far better heat-insulating properties than the plywood. This unit is used to
find the ‘heat-loss calculation' for a home so that preparations can be made to properly
heat a home. Radiant heating systems need low R-Values for carpet pads to allow the heat to pass
through it and high R-Values are encouraged everywhere else.
Radiant Barrier
Generally a paper thin, pure aluminum material used to reflect 97% of
the infrared heat spectrum back up to the heated floor.
Radiant Baseboard
A heat distribution device containing hot water inside a cast-iron or
copper-finned radiator that runs along a wall's baseboard.
Radiant Flooring
Special polymer tubing that is run underneath the subfloor or fastened
down on top of the subfloor or onto a wire grid imbedded in lightweight concrete. Low-temperature
water is circulated through the tubing to produce radiant heat.
Radiant Heat
A type of heating that warms objects instead of air, the floor being the
largest object, to heat a home. The air in the room is warmed when it comes into contact with the
warmed objects. Heat loss is reduced and the radiant heat remains in the lower part of the room,
warmer near feet level and slightly less so at head level, creating the perfect climate for
comfort.
Radiant Operating Temperature
The floor temperature should never exceed 85°F.
Radiant Panel
The mass of concrete or other material which, when heated, stores and
releases radiant heat energy into the living space. All objects, people, furniture, walls, etc.,
are warmed by absorbing and transferring the radiated energy. All areas within the living space
are evenly heated.
Radiation
The transfer of heat by direct rays from your body to cooler objects
around you.
Radiator
Rebar
See: reinforcing bar.
Rebar Ties
Wires used to connect two or more lengths of rebar so they form a
continuous length, or to tie lengths of rebar together where they cross. ClearZone
snow melting cables are often tied down to rebar for support and proper spacing.
Recovery Rate
Basically, how fast a water heater or boiler can heat water.
Recovery rates are generally measured by how many gallons of water can be raised 90° in one hour.
If a water heater, for example, stores 50 gallons of water, a recovery rate suitable for radiant
heating would be the ability to heat 1 1/2 times its storage amount within one hour. In other words,
it could heat 75 gallons each hour. The best water heaters on the market can heat almost
three times their capacity.
(Recovery rate is important in radiant systems because the water in the radiant tubing
cools down to room temperature between heat cycles. Depending on the size of the zone, this
could be as much as 20 or 30 gallons of water. So, when the system kicks on, this 70° water
enters the water heater and "dilutes" the temperature. A water heater with a good recovery
rate will heat the water back up quickly and return the radiant system to its desired operating
temperature (125°). Gas and oil fired water heaters offer the quickest recovery rates,
electric water heaters the slowest.)
Reflective Insulation
A type of insulation employing a surface that reflects heat,
such as foil backing. Used in wall insulation or with various radiant heating projects
to direct heat. Snow melting systems do not require using insulation due to the fact
that it can actually prevent the Earths warmth contribute to heating a driveway or
walkway thus forcing the radiant heating system to work longer.
Regulator
A device used to control voltage, flow, or pressure.
Reinforced Concrete
Concrete to which reinforcement has been added in the form
of steel rods, bars or mesh to increase its strength and resistance to cracking.
ClearZone snow melting cables
are often tied down to rebar
for support and proper spacing.
Reinforcing Bar
Steel bar designed to be placed in concrete for reinforcement.
Concrete has compression strength; reinforcing bar adds resistance to breaking when
other types of forces are applied. The bars have a patterned, or textured exterior,
which allows them to bond or interlock with the concrete mix. They come in a variety
of sizes, starting at 1/4 inch diameter and increasing in size in increments of 1/8 inch.
Also called rebar. ClearZone snow melting cables
or other radiant heating cables or tubing are often tied down to rebar for support and
proper spacing.
Relay-Transformer
The control system for the boiler which provides electrical
power to the pump and gas valve when the thermostat calls for heat.
Remodel
To alter or restore an existing structure.
Repair Coupling
A brass fitting used to repair a damaged section of radiant
tubing, generally in a slab application. The coupling is double clamped with stainless
steel hose clamps and sheathed in a piece of clear vinyl tubing to prevent the concrete
from corroding the metal fitting.
Resistance
The opposition offered by a body or substance to the passage
of a steady electric current through it. Internal friction slows the passage of electrons
within a conductor and causes heat. The larger the diameter of electrical wire, the less
friction there is per foot. Resistance is the electrical property for which heat is created
in electric radiant heating cables.
RetroHeat
Is a unique radiant heating panel product with a conductive material
to create safe resistance heat between your floor joists. RetroHeat features a thin "film"
heating element that is stapled between the joists and then insulated from underneath to direct
the heat upward to efficiently heat the floor above. This product is ideal where existing floor
coverings are already installed.
Retrofit
The act of installing something after the primary area has already
been constructed. RetroHeat, for example, is a product installed between floor joists to provide
heat to the floor above without taking up the flooring.
Return Line
An insulated copper line leading back to the heat source.
Romex
A trade name for non-metallic sheathed electrical cable.
Roof Heating
Radiant heat products designed to heat the roof eave to prevent
ice damming and icicles that can be dangerous to people below. Roof heating systems use
electric radiant heat cables or PEX tubing from a hydronics system to bring heat to the
roof and/or gutters.
Roofer
A contractor who installs roofing material or makes repairs to
existing roofing.
Roughing In
Is the installation of part of a radiant heating system. Heating cables,
wires, or PEX tubing can often be ?roughed-in? to concrete or under any floor covering and then
electrical controls or boilers can be hooked up at a later time for convenience or for budgeting
reasons. Warmzone electric and Hydronic radiant heat systems can all be roughed-in and hooked
up at a later time.
RPA
The “Radiant Panel Association” has been created to
facilitate communication and cooperation among those interested in the advancement of the
radiant panel heating and cooling industry, primarily in North America.
Run
1) Width of a step; 2) Horizontal distance covered by a
flight of stairs.
Schematic
A diagram of a plumbing system or electrical wiring routing or
circuit.
Screed
A rigid, straight piece of wood or metal used to level concrete or
other materials that have been poured into forms, and to remove the excess material. Snow
melting systems under sand and pavers or in concrete use a screed to level and remove
excess material.
Service Panel
An electrical panel containing circuit breakers and serving as a
distribution point for the electrical service enter the building. Large electric snow melting
systems will require a connection between a contactor box and the service panel.
Slab Manifold
A copper manifold used to distribute heated fluid to a concrete slab.
Slab manifolds come in many configurations, the simplest being the "1-loop" manifold. This is
simply a supply connection to a single loop of tubing and its return. A "6-loop" manifold is
generally the largest. Bigger than "6-loop", and the manifold becomes unwieldy. Imagine six
supply connections and six return connections on one manifold and you'll get the idea.
Super large zones will often use multiple manifolds spread throughout the heated space
to achieve coverage.
(Slab manifolds should do more than split one supply and one return into multiple branches. An important component of our slab manifolds is the pressure-testing feature. Testing for leaks prior to pouring a slab is mandatory. Also, the box containing our manifold acts as the form around which you pour the concrete. This creates a "manifold well" in the finished slab and keeps the multiple connections below floor level. Everything remains visible and accessible, but only the supply and return pipes stick up above the slab. Concrete never touches the copper manifold.)
Sleepers
Strapping placed on an existing floor to create "sleeper bays"
in which to run radiant tubing. Most often, 2X4's laying flat, 16" on center, act as the
best sleepers. They raise the floor 1 1/2" and allow adequate room for even the largest
tubing. Sand or concrete is generally placed over the tubing, between the sleepers, and
the sleepers are then used 1) to screed across in the case of a concrete floor, or 2) for
nailing down the finished floor.
Solar Collector
A device used to capture heat from the sun and turn it into
energy. Solar energy captured by collectors is most commonly used for home water or
pool heating. The collector may consist of a variety of materials in different forms,
such as a coil of copper or plastic tubing, straight lengths of tubing, or flat
plastic panels with passages through them. The coils or panels are exposed to the
sun’s rays, either in an insulted box under glass, or exposed to the elements.
Water is pumped through the tubes or panels, absorbing their heat. The hot water in
the tubes or panels may then be stored in an insulated tank for later use. Also
called solar panels.
Solar Heating
Using solar energy to heat a structure or to heat the
water to be used in a structure or swimming pool.
Solder
Metal alloys with relatively low melting points used for
joining metals. The liquid point of solder is 450 degrees centigrade (840 degrees
Fahrenheit) or less.
Solid Wire
Electrical wire in which the conductor is a single
conductor, as opposed to a stranded wire of multiple conductors.
Space Heater
An individual heating unit, usually electric, designed
to heat a small area.
Specific Heat
The number of calories required to raise 1 gram of a
substance by 1 degree centigrade, or the number of Btu needed to raise 1 pound
of a substance by 1 degree Fahrenheit.
Specifications
Detailed requirements to be met in the manufacture or
purchase of an item.
Spectrographic Analysis
The use of a spectrograph to determine the location of a
concealed tube leak by "sniffing" a particular gas.
Splice
To join two pieces together.
Standing Pilot Burner
A device which always burns a small amount of fuel to
maintain a flame. The flame lights the main burner when the system calls for heat.
Staple-up System
Tubing stapled to the underside of the subfloor.
Stapling Hammer
A stapling machine shaped similar to a hammer. It places
staples when the head of the stapler is struck against the surface being stapled.
Stranded Wire
Electrical wire in which there are multiple conductors
bunched or braided together.
Stratification
A term referring to the uneven heat distribution of most
forced-air systems. Hot air is blown around your living space creating pockets of warm,
then colder, air. Hot air also tends to collect near the ceiling where it is needed
the least.
Structural
Pertaining to load-carrying parts or members; a solid part
of a structure or building that is designed and installed to carry a load. Adding a
hydronic system on additional floors using gypsum should consider the structural
weight load.
Subcontractor
A contractor performing work for another contractor.
Subfloor
The layer of flooring that is fastened directly to the
floor joists, and to which the finish flooring is applied. It is constructed of
plywood sheathing or 2 x 6 planks, and may be a single or double layer.
Subgrade
1) Soil structure below grade level, before any surfacing
material is placed; 2) compacted soil on which a concrete slab or other structure is
placed 3) the elevation at the bottom of a pipe trench.
Substrate
1) The underlying surface or material; 2) The supporting
material to which a finish is applied.
Supplemental Heat
Supplemental heating systems are used to augment a
primary heating source
or add comfort to an area that is not sufficiently warm. Radiant heating
systems in bathrooms, kitchens and basements are generally defined as supplemental
systems and function is the warm the floor.
Forced-air systems
are often ineffective at raising floor temperatures and stand in need for supplemental
heat in these areas.
Supply Line
Generally, an insulated copper line used to feed multiple
circuits of tubing. Or, any water line running from the discharge side of a radiant
circulator pump.
Suspended Slab
A radiant floor system installed on top of an existing floor.
Switch
An electrical device for opening or closing a circuit
which allows a light or motor to be turned off or on.
Tamp
1) A manual device with a long handle and a steel grid or
mesh base used for compacting wet concrete and forcing large aggregate below the surface.
2) A manual or mechanical device used for compacting soil, asphalt or other material by
repeatedly striking the surface with a flat plate.
Tankless Coil
A coil of tubes immersed into the boiler's hot water.
Fresh water contained safely inside the coil picks up heat from the boiler water.
The coil's hot water is then piped for use in the kitchen, bathroom, or elsewhere.
Tankless Water Heater
Powered by gas or electrical power, these small units give
you the benefit of on-demand hot water by bringing in cold water and then passing it
through a heat exchanger. These systems are electronically controlled to the inflow of
water and maximize efficiency. Since a holding tank is not required and water is
‘flash’ heated, the heater can provide an endless supply of hot water.
Tarmac
A trade name for an asphaltic binder used in paving.
Therm
The measurement of a unit of heat equal to 1000,000 Btu.
Thermal
Of, or relating to, heat.
Thermal Coefficient of expansion
A factor designating the amount of contraction or expansion
that takes place in a material as the result of temperature changes. It provides a
means for the designer to determine the amount of change that will occur in something.
Concrete, for example, uses expansion joints to compensate for shifting slabs during
times of hot and cold temperatures.
Thermal Conductor
A solid or fluid, such as a metal or water, that allows
heat to flow through it.
Thermal Insulator
A material that resists the transfer or passage of heat.
Carpet or carpet pad is a thermal insulator to radiant heat and needs to be carefully
specified before installing.
Thermal Mass
In the context of radiant heat, materials capable of absorbing
and storing heat energy. Concrete, sand, slate, and tile possess a greater thermal mass
than wood. The greater the mass, the longer stored heat will remain in the floor.
Thermoplastic
A type of plastic that can be easily softened by heat and that
cools to a hard material Thermoplastics are used for many products.
Thermostat
A device which senses "air or floor" temperature, controls
operation of the heating source, and maintains the room temperature within the living
space. Because of the effects of the heating system, the settings with hydronic radiant
panels are 3-5°F lower than with forced warm air for the same comfort level.
Three-Phase Electrical Current or Power
Power that is generated with three armature coils (in an alternator),
which is the optimum number for generation, balancing output efficiency against mechanical
input energy. The three phases follow each 1/180th of a second apart in a 60 cycle AC circuit.
This type of power is most often used in industrial applications to power heavy machinery or
large electrical radiant heating systems for heating driveways or large interior areas.
Tile
Flat square shaped sheets or slabs of material used as a surface
covering. Common tile materials are clay, metal, various types of stone, asphalt and plastic.
Tile is optimal for incorporating a radiant heating system.
Towel Warmers
Towel Warmers are a fashionable way to augment heating in any
bathroom. These towel racks are comprised of metal tubing that traditionally uses a glycol
water mixture and is either hard wired to 110V or is plugged into a socket. The fluid is
heated and warms the entire rack and then radiates heat throughout the bathroom.
Trade Association
An organization of manufacturers, distributors, service contractors
or other groups with similar goals or needs. Such associations are usually formed to promote
uniform standards within their particular industry and to standardize documents or codes for
common benefit. Warmzone is a member of the Radiant Panel Association RPA which strives to
consolidate training and other resources for the benefit of the radiant industry.
Trowel
A hand tool with a flat rectangular or triangular metal surface.
The rectangular trowel is used for smoothing and finishing tile. A notched trowel can be
lightly used over the top of ComfortTile
floor heating cable and mats for spreading a layer of thinset in a tile installation.
Tubing Materials
The following are common examples of materials which have been
and are currently used for the distribution piping: Copper, Type "L"; Armco Plastic Coated
Steel; Cold Rolled or Extruded Steel; Non-Barrier Polybutylene; PEX Non-Barrier Polyethylene;
PEX Cross-Linked Barrier Polyethylene; Rubber.
Tubing Sizes
For most practical applications, two tubing sizes are best.
7/8" Poly and 1/2" PEX offer the greatest flexibility. The 7/8" Poly provides the
highest heat output (50 BTUs per ft.) and can be spaced 16" on center. But a compromise
is made when it comes to bending diameter. However, in a wide open slab environment,
bending diameter is not a problem. In floor joists, spacing of 16" on center or greater
is the most practical use for the 7/8" size.
The 1/2" PEX (25 BTUs per ft.) can also be used in virtually any application, but it
should be spaced 8" on center. It will heat the same as the 7/8" Poly tubing, but you
have to use twice as much of it. It can raise the cost of a radiant system substantially.
However, 1/2" PEX has thicker walls, hence, a greater pressure and temperature rating.
In high temperature applications it's the best way to go. Its great durability is also
ideal for snowmelt situations.
Two-Wire System
An AC electrical system having a hot lead and a neutral lead,
both wires needed to complete the electrical circuit in all 120 volt AC electrical
systems.
Type "L" Tube
An industry standard for copper tubing defined by the tube
wall thickness and identified by a "blue" stripe. Type "L" copper tube wall is
approximately 50% greater thickness than Type "M".
Type "M" Tube
An industry standard for copper tubing defined by the tube
wall thickness and identified by a "red" stripe.
U-Value
A unit of measure of heat transfer through a material of
known thickness determined by the number of Btu lost per square foot per hour, assuming
a 1 degree F difference between the sides of the material. The lower the U-value, the
greater the insulating value of the material.
UF Wire
Underground feeder wire or cable. It is a type of plastic
insulated copper wire that is manufactured without fiber spacers that can absorb moisture.
It is used in outdoor and underground applications, such as wiring for outdoor lighting,
particularly with 120 volt AC supply power.
Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL)
An independent testing agency which can be hired to test and
assess the operation and safety of almost any item or product. Once the item has been
tested and approved by Underwriter’s Laboratories, the manufacturer can put a UL
sticker or tag on the item to show that it has been tested. ComfortTile, WarmTrax,
and ClearZone have all been tested and given a UL approved certificate.
Uniform Mechanical Code (94)
A system of procedures designed to provide consumers with
complete requirements for the installation and maintenance of heating, ventilating,
cooling, and refrigeration systems and used throughout the United States by local
jurisdictions.
Universal Plumbing Code (94)
A system of procedures designed to provide consumers with
safe and sanitary plumbing systems and used throughout the United States by local
jurisdictions.
Valley
The inside corner junction where two roof slopes meet.
Vapor Barrier
A water-resistant material used on a surface or structure to
stop or retard the movement of moisture through the surface. Commonly used in walls
under drywall, between concrete and wood flooring and under concrete slabs.
Volt (V)
A measure of the electromotive force that causes current to
flow through a circuit, analogous to system pressure in a hydraulic system.
Volt-Ampere
A unit of apparent power in an AC electrical circuit, and a
unit equal to a watt in a DC circuit.
Voltage Drop
The loss in voltage between the electrical supply and the
electrical load because of resistance in the wire.
Voltage Regulator
A control device used to maintain voltage at a set value.
Voltmeter
A meter that indicates the number of volts across electrical
terminals. Used to test batteries, electrical circuits and receptacles to determine if
they are live.
WarmTrax
Is a portable snow melting mat that can be plugged directly into a
110V socket. WarmTrax is made of a durable rubber and uses embedded wires to create a non-slipping
strip that can be used in front of doorways, loading docks, handicap ramps, and even pathways
to an outdoor hot tub.
Watt (W)
The common measurement unit for electric power, named for
Sir James Watt (1736-1819) who suggested that the unit of power be the rate at which
a horse performs work. A watt is equal to volts multiplied by amps in a DC circuit and
in an AC circuit with a purely resistive load. One watt is the equivalent of 3.41 Btu
per hour.
Wire Gauge
A standardized numbering system assigned to represent the
diameter of a wire. The smaller the wire, the larger the number.
Wrought Copper Fittings
Plumbing fittings used to connect copper tubes. They are
composed of cast copper metal.
Y-Connection
An electrical connection in which all three coils in a three-phase
generator meet at one point. Also called a wye connection.
Zmesh
An older method used for roof de-icing. Zmesh has since been replaced
by a safer, more advanced low-voltage roof heating technology (RoofHeat STEP), which, unlike
Zmesh, can also be used to heat metal roofs.
Zone Manifold
Most often a factory built manifold that contains the circulator
pumps, ball valves, check valves, in-line thermometers, pump flanges, drain valves, and all
the plumbing hardware necessary to effectively distribute heated fluid to multiple heating
zones.
Zones
A zone generally refers to a given area controlled by a thermostat.
Radiant heat allows you to have variable control of each zone unlike a forced air system.
Any room or area in a radiant heat home can be zoned by using a separate tubing loop and
manifold to control the heat of the individual room or area. This is convenient for rooms
that have different floor coverings or are not used as often as other rooms.
Zoning
The ability to individually select and control the area in the home to be heated.
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info@warmzone.com