5A. INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
5A.5 Pressure Test/Start-up
After installation of the panel and tubing, but before laying the finished floor, you need to perform a pressure test. Fill the
system with air or water and maintain a pressure of 2 to 3 times the working pressure of the system, about 25 to 50 psi (1.7
to 3.4 bar) for 6 hours. Use a leak detection solution (if testing with air) to locate and repair any leaks in the system. A small
leak can take a long time to register on a 60 psi (4 bar) gauge.
Please note: If the system cannot be started up after the
pressure test and there is a danger of freeze, you must use air or a glycol solution! Do not use plain water!
Run the system at
normal operating pressure at about 140°F (60°C) for 30 minutes to allow the tubing to relax and settle into the tracks. Noise can
occur at this time but will reduce as the tubing settles. If the noise persists, locate the source and apply some silicone
adhesive to the tubing at that location. After the start-up is complete, the finished flooring can be installed.
5A.6 Sample Flooring Installations
Tile/Stone:
Roth recommends using a tile underlayment product in
all
ceramic tile installations. Underlayment should be
secured and seams finished per manufacturer’s instructions. It is also a good idea to use plasticizer additives with the
mastic and grout for more flexibility during operation of the heating system.
Laminate Wood Flooring:
Thin laminate flooring may require the use of an underlayment material to provide additional
support above the tubing/grooves. This should be discussed with the flooring contractor during the planning phase.
Carpeting/Vinyl Flooring:
Never use untempered hardboard as an underlayment. Underlayment should be stable under
the temperature and humidity conditions expected for your project. Untempered hardboard may swell with humidity.
Hardwood:
Nail strips may not be needed if the flooring contractor uses longer nails/staples. This should be discussed
with the flooring contractor prior to installation of the panel. Never use an asphalt impregnated paper, or any impregnated
paper that can produce odors when exposed to heat between the panel and the hardwood.
These are sample installations only!
It is always important to coordinate any radiant heating with the flooring contractor prior to panel installation!
The flooring contractor will then be able to incorporate any special requirements felt needed for the installation.
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