8
SunTouch TapeMat Installation Manual
Table 5 - Circuit Breakers and Supply Wire
Mat(s)
Supply Wire
Breaker
VAC
total amps
(AWG)*
qty type**
rating
120
up to 12 amps
14
1
SP
15 or 20 A
120
up to 15 amps
12
1
SP
20 A
240
up to 12 amps
14
1
DP
15 or 20 A
240
up to 15 amps
12
1
DP
20 A
* Recommended only. Follow local codes for wire gauge size.
** SP= single-pole, DP=double-pole
!
CAUTION
Donotperformanyelectricalworkunlessqualifiedtodo
so.Workshouldbedonewithgreatcareandwithpower
turnedofftothecircuitbeingworkedon.Followalllocal
buildingandelectricalcodes.
Phase 3: Electrical Rough-in
STEP 3.1:
Circuit Breaker (Overcurrent Protection)
SunTouch TapeMat(s) must be protected against overload
by a circuit breaker. GFCI type (ground fault circuit interrupter)
or AFCI type (arc-fault circuit interrupter) breakers may be
used if desired, but are not necessary.
The rating of the breaker (see Table 5) is determined by
the amp draw of the heating mats (see Table 2 or the
Nameplate Label). If multiple mats are to be controlled by one
SunStat, total their amp draws. If this total exceeds 15 amps,
an additional breaker will be required. The total amps on each
breaker can not exceed 15 amps. Do not use breakers rated
over 20 amps.
It may be possible to tap into an existing breaker as long as
there is adequate capacity for the mat(s) and any additional
appliance, such as a hair dryer or vacuum cleaner. Avoid
circuits which have lighting, motors, exhaust fans, or hot tub
pumps due to possible interference.
STEP 3.2:
Install Electrical Boxes
SunStat Thermostat:
Install an extra-deep electrical box for the SunStat
thermostat. Follow the instructions included with the
SunStat for complete information on location and wiring.
SunStat Relay:
Install an extra-deep electrical box for any SunStat Relay(s).
The SunStat Relay is used when more than 15 amps must
be controlled by one SunStat thermostat. Follow the
instructions included with the SunStat Relay for complete
information on location and wiring.
Junction Boxes:
If a mat is to be located so its Power lead is not long enough
to reach the SunStat or SunStat Relay directly, a junction
box must be installed. Do not attempt to make a
connection to other wiring without a junction box. Use a
standard junction box with a cover, mounting it below the
subfloor, in the attic, in the wall, or in another location
easily accessible after all coverings are complete.
For construction with an existing wall or where the wall is
covered, cut the necessary openings to mount the electrical
boxes listed above. Wait to install the boxes until all wiring is
fed into these locations to make it easier to pull the wire.
Note: The SunStat sensor wire can be extended up to a
maximum of 50’. Follow the installation instructions
that are included with the SunStat for details.
Install an extra-deep single-gang box if
connecting one or two cables to the control.
Use a 4"-square deep box with a single-
gang mud ring cover if connecting three
cables, because the extra room is needed
for the wire, wire nuts, and control.
