One of the advantages of infrared film floors, according to manufacturers, is the ease of installation. However, as practice shows, the same problems occur during installation, which lead to unjustified costs.
Do-it-yourself installation of an infrared warm floor, subject to the operating instructions, is easy and takes only a few hours.
How to install IR floor heating
Heating of the room with the help of IR floors occurs by means of infrared radiation. Under the influence of electricity, carbon conductors heat up. IR rays form a film in which the heating elements are sealed.To install your own floors, follow the following step-by-step installation instructions. 
A detailed description of the installation is also given in the operating instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
How to connect the infrared floor to the network
Often the main mistakes are made precisely at the stage of connecting to the power grid. Incorrect installation infrared film underfloor heating, erroneous connection voltage and incorrect installation of sensors, occur in every third case self-laying.How to do these jobs correctly? 
After completing the work and connecting the wires to electrical network, system health check is performed. Even before laying the finish coat, the floor is connected to the network and each section is checked to see how it works. Since the work of the floors is associated with infrared radiation, heating will be felt immediately.
Connecting a film underfloor heating with your own hands is quite simple. If you have certain skills, it will take 1-2 hours to install the heating system. It is enough to carefully follow the described step-by-step installation method in order to complete the work independently and quickly.
How to ground a warm IR floor
The grounding of the electric infrared film underfloor heating is carried out using foil tape. The adhesive tape is glued along the entire length of the film, as well as across. One of the ends is glued to the ground plate.When performing work, it must be remembered that infrared heat-insulated floors are laid only on a dry surface.
Grounding the floor must be done without fail. It is especially important to do this if it is planned to operate the heating system in rooms with.
As additional measure automatic disconnecting devices are installed: automatic devices and RCDs. The operation of a film underfloor heating without grounding leads to the rejection of the manufacturer's warranty obligations.
What do you need to connect the floor, what tools
The easy-to-install film floor does not require the use of any specific or expensive tools during installation. It is quite possible to get by with the usual set:
Other tools and accessories for installation are selected depending on the method of laying the finish coat. So, for pouring a solid concrete floor, you will need a mixer nozzle, a rule and other tools. Tiling may require a comb, level, etc.
Common flooring mistakes
Despite the constantly repeated installation tips, apartment owners who decide to install the heating system on their own, and even professional teams, constantly make the same mistakes:- Laying the film floor on the wrong side. The copper contacts should lie "face" on the floor.
- Installation can only be carried out on a dry surface. Built in concrete screed the floor may only be turned on 30 days after pouring the mortar.
- Checking the performance of the film is carried out before laying the floor covering.
- Without a thermostat, the floor will not be able to be used for a long time. Installing sensors after laying the flooring is quite problematic.
- During installation, it is extremely important not to damage the film. Tears and cuts lead to rapid failure.
How much does it cost to install underfloor heating
Even with strict adherence to the recommendations for self installation warm infrared floor, it can be difficult to properly install the film. It is not surprising that most owners prefer to hire a competent craftsman who understands the installation principle well and can do all the work quickly and efficiently.
How much will the film floor cost.
- Self styling. If you choose the domestic BNK floor - 2370, then for 20 m², you will have to pay about 13,850 rubles. Excluding screed and other work. The price of the thermostat will be from 800 rubles. and higher. Calculating the cost of DEVI film flooring per 1 m² will increase the cost to 22890 for a room of 20 m².
- The cost of installing an infrared floor varies depending on the region of the Russian Federation and the contractor company, but in general it will be from 1500 to 2000 rubles. per m², taking into account the full cost Supplies and floor covering. It turns out that the total cost of a turnkey repair, with the installation of a laminate or linoleum, will be approximately 40,000 rubles. for a room of 20 m².
Exist different ways home heating - centralized heating, stove, geothermal, etc. But in recent times film warm floors (or infrared, as they are also called) are gaining more and more popularity due to their practicality and efficiency. In today's article we will talk about how to properly laydo-it-yourself film underfloor heating.
The heating floor technology itself can hardly be considered new. Long time water and electrical systems warm floor. In the first variant, an electric cable installed under the floor was used for heating, in the second, a heat carrier moving under the finishing coating (usually water).
Both options have their drawbacks and difficulties in installation, which cannot be said about the modern film field. It differs in that it heats the room by means of infrared rays, due to which objects heat up and spread heat in the air.
Note! IR rays are emitted by a special carbon paste, which is sealed in a polyester film. Hence another name for the system - carbon floor.
The system works as follows: silver-coated copper cables (it prevents burning) are energized, and the mentioned paste converts it into IR radiation. It is characteristic that the connection of such a design is carried out exclusively through a thermostat.
Installation sequence
All procedures are quite simple and occur in this sequence.
Stage 1. Buying everything you need
The following components are required for operation:
Now a few words about this coverage. As noted earlier, carbon film is suitable for any finishing material, it practically does not affect the system kit. However, the substrate for each coating requires an appropriate material.
- For a wooden floor, the heating film is covered with polyethylene.
- For tiles, everything is the same, only the plastic film is additionally covered with a masking net. For fixing, dowels are used, and when laying, a special adhesive solution for underfloor heating is used.
- With soft flooring, the floor is protected by a hard substrate - plywood, chipboard, etc.
Note! Best of all, the film floor is combined with tiles. The fact is that given material has good heat-saving properties, so energy is spent more economically.
Stage 2. Surface preparation
Step 1. The infrared floor is extremely demanding on the coating on which it is installed, so the base is first cleaned of dirt and dust. To do this, you can use a vacuum cleaner.
Step 2. Then the surface is checked with a horizontal level and if the "difference" exceeds 3 mm, then alignment and re-cleaning is carried out.
Step 3. Upon completion of cleaning, a waterproofing layer is mounted to protect the floor from moisture.
Step 4. A heater is installed on top of the waterproofing. This will prevent heat loss from rays going down, and, as a result, reduce the amount of electricity consumed. Do not believe the "specialists" who claim that this is superfluous.
As a heater, you can use any of existing options, but only a technical cork should be laid under ceramic tiles. The insulation is laid with a metallized surface up, leveled, and the joints are sealed with mounting tape.
Stage 3. Scheme of the future floor
Step 1. Before starting installation, you need to determine the location of the thermostat - ideally, it should be 15 cm from the floor surface.
- system cannot be installed household appliances and overall furniture;
- the first strip should be laid at a distance of 10-40 cm from the wall;
- if the film floor is the only source of heat, then you need to make sure that it occupies at least ¾ of the entire room;
- if he is only auxiliary system, then ½ will suffice.
Stage 4. Installation and final connection
Step 1. According to the scheme drawn up at the previous stage, a heating polyester film is laid on top of the insulation. If necessary, the material is cut along the marked lines.
Step 2. The film must be laid so that the copper surfaces of the contacts are directed downwards. In this case, you need to move towards the wall on which the thermostat is installed.
Step 3. Screw terminals are connected to the edge of each copper strip, after which the cables are connected.
Note! All joints and cuts are carefully sealed with a special mastic based on bitumen.
It should be remembered that the longer the length of the panel heating film, the fewer contacts there will be. But maximum length while not exceeding eight meters.
Step 4. Some of the clamp contacts must be placed on the surface through which the current will be passed, while the rest - in the film itself.
Step 6. Upon completion of laying, connecting all cables and clamping contacts, a thermostat is installed. It is recommended that this device be installed permanently, but if desired, it can be connected as an ordinary electrical appliance - using an outlet.
Note! Experienced builders assure that most cables leading from the thermostat to the film must be passed under the plinth.
Step 7. At the end, the structure is connected to the electrical network.
Stage 5. Trial run of the system
Before laying the finish coat, the performance of the film floor should be tested. If everything was done correctly, then the film will warm up evenly, the contact connections will not spark or overheat. After successful testing, the infrared floor is covered with another layer of polyethylene film, then you can start laying the finishing coating.
As a conclusion
Of course, it is quite possible to mount the film floor with your own hands. And even in the absence of any skills in working with it, you can always read the installation instructions (it should come with the system) or find information on the Web. There are many tutorial videos, one of which is shown below.
Video - Film floor installation
Nothing is more invigorating than the touch of your feet on the cold floor. Especially in the morning. At these moments, we remember all the ancient mantras, enviously calling various misfortunes on the head of a more successful neighbor. In fact, his feet do not freeze, his shoes dry naturally in the hallway, he lives in a wonderful world. But this is not a miracle, but a warm film floor. A system that is quite possible to implement with your own hands. Good thing, on modern market presented many almost ready systems floor heating.
On this page you will find detailed information about this underfloor heating system, and step by step instructions DIY installation with photo and video materials.
Pros and cons of the film floor
First, about the pleasant. The advantages of this heating system are diverse, we list only a few of them:
Low price. In fact, such material is relatively inexpensive. Depending on the manufacturer and material of manufacture, the cost per 1 sq.m will be from 350 to 1300 rubles. For comparison, the material and installation of a warm water floor will cost two to three times more.
Low electricity consumption. The most powerful film floor consumes about 200 watts per square meter area. On average, this value is lower: 150 W per m 2. Compared with the "voracity" of the cable floor (180-220 W), the benefits are obvious. You can’t even talk about a classic water floor: gas consumption for heating water, plus electricity consumption circulation pump– it turns out a decent amount.
Read tact: The most economical of all -!
Ease of installation. Knowing the basic rules, almost any owner can lay underfloor heating.
Beneficial features. Yes, this is not a myth or a miracle. The film floor ionizes the air, kills unpleasant odors, creates favorable microclimate in any room.
As seen, positive qualities so much that you want to run for a purchase right now. However, it would be dishonest to remain silent about the shortcomings of these systems. So, what is "uncomfortable" in a warm film floor?
Furniture cannot be placed on top. This is true for bimetallic material, carbon film underfloor heating is not so demanding. The disadvantage is obvious: if the room is planned to be rearranged, then it is difficult to guess on which part of the floor you can lay the film, and which cannot.
You need a flat surface. That is, you need additional expenses for surface leveling. Imagine a situation where a film lies on an uneven surface and is pushed through by the coating. Insulation breaks, short circuit occurs. The result is a fire. Extremely nasty stuff.
Some jobs cannot be done on your own. You can prepare the surface, lay the film floor, even connect the power cable to it. But only a qualified electrician can install a thermostat, RCD and quality control.
Having dealt with the advantages and disadvantages, you can consider under which coating you can lay a film warm floor.
What kind of flooring is it suitable for?
The main question that worries many people is something like this: “Is it possible to lay a film floor if there is a tile on top?”. Yes, but only carbon. The bimetallic floor is completely unsuitable for these purposes.
In general, if you study numerous reviews, you can find out that it is good to lay a film floor under various types of floor coverings:
- wood (laminate, parquet);
- linoleum. More ;
- cork sheets.
The only condition will be the installation of a thermostat that allows you to maintain the temperature evenly over the entire floor area, within 27 degrees. Why exactly this value? If we consider physical properties wood flooring, it becomes clear that a change in its structure occurs at a temperature of 28 0 C. That is, when the floor is heated above 27 degrees, the material will deform.
Substrate laying
After the surface has completely dried, lay the substrate on the place where the film warm floor will be spread. If you want to heat the entire floor surface with a carbon film, then you need to spread the substrate, stepping back 10 - 30 cm from the walls. Joints must be fixed with masking tape.
Before installing the film, carefully inspect the entire surface so that the substrate is well fixed and does not bulge anywhere.
Do-it-yourself installation of a film underfloor heating
It is believed that the bimetallic film can be laid in any way, cutting it into strips of arbitrary length and shape. Actually it is not. There are a number of rules.
The ratio of the width and length of the stripes. You need to know what size your material is, because there is a maximum allowable length for the width:
- width 500 mm - maximum 9 linear meters;
- 800 mm - 5.5 p / m;
- 1000 mm - 4.5 p / m.
Minimum joints. The more joints, the lower the reliability of the coating. Therefore, the decision on how to lay an electric underfloor heating, along or across the room, depends on its dimensions, as well as on the width of the material itself.
Correct cutting. This material cannot be cut, like a substrate, in any order. To understand where you can cut the film, look at its surface. It is usually divided into square sections with dark (graphite) coating. In these places it is impossible to pierce and cut the material. In addition, it is forbidden to damage the copper wires (they are also perfectly visible).
The sequence of actions when laying the film
- We lay the sheets parallel to each other, avoiding overlap (butt). Spread the film only with copper conductors downwards. Important! If you accidentally pierced (pierced) the film through and through, you need to insulate this place from both sides.
- The side opposite to the one to which the connection will be made must be insulated. For this, bituminous insulation is used, which has great reliability and protection of the coating. Cut off the insulation a little more than required in size, this will provide greater reliability. So that the insulation does not protrude above the general level, you need to cut a recess in the substrate and hide the insulated edge there. For better fixation, it is necessary to glue the insulated edge to the substrate with masking tape.
- In the same way, using adhesive tape, we fix the sheets between each other and the edges of the infrared warm floor.
- Install the thermostat. See below for how to choose.
- Using a wire and copper clamps, we connect the underfloor heating mats to the thermostat. The connection must be consistent: like the connection of strips in a sheet of underfloor heating.
- We hook copper clips to those places that are indicated in the instructions. At this stage, it is important not to break through the material. To do this, carefully insert one side of the clamp between the film and the copper core. The other part is gently pressed against the film with pliers or light hammer blows. We do the same with each sheet.
- Now you need to connect the thermostat to the network and check the performance of the warm floor. This job is best left to a professional electrician for several reasons. The specialist knows all the nuances and can connect the entire system to the network with a quality guarantee. In addition, the bimetallic film floor is characterized by the absence of grounding. To protect yourself and your loved ones, you will need to install an RCD (device protective shutdown), which will de-energize the circuit section in the event of a short circuit. Installation of such equipment should be done by a specialist.
- The system health check typically takes 15 minutes. This time is enough.
Construction mesh installation
If the floors warm up evenly, and there are no complaints about the work of the warm floor, you can start installation construction mesh. What is it for? This material acts as a bonding base for the flooring.
Regardless of the material chosen, it will move slightly, expand with temperature changes, and so on. However, it can damage the warm floor.
Attention! If installation is planned tiles(in the case of a carbon film floor) - laying is strictly prohibited metal mesh. The best option, as mentioned above, will become fiberglass.
It is better to attach the grid to the floor. For this, dowels are used, which are inserted into drilled holes. You need to drill in those places where there is no black graphite coating.
How to choose the right thermostat?
Manufacturers produce temperature controllers various kinds: both mechanical and electronic. The latter type is in great demand due to its functionality: some models support work on a given program. That is, heating can turn on in the morning when you just woke up or in the evening. Saving electricity is obvious: you can, for example, set the program and the film floor heating will turn off at night if heating is not needed at this time of day.
The main thing to pay attention to is the correspondence between the power of the temperature controller and the power of the floor. Calculating this value is quite easy: you need to multiply the area of \u200b\u200bthe infrared floor by its power. Let's take an example. Let's say the floor area is 15 sq.m, and the floor power per 1 square meter is 180 watts. We multiply 15 by 180 and get the number 2700. This means that a thermostat with a power of 3 kW is required.
Tip: if the power of the thermostat is more than 2.5 kW, it is advisable to install a separate circuit breaker. In the event of a system failure, it will turn off the electrical circuit.
Conclusion
The installation of the underfloor heating is completed, you can start laying the final floor covering. To avoid unpleasant situations during the operation of the film floor, follow these recommendations:
- The interval between laying tiles or porcelain tiles on a graphite floor and starting the heating system should not be less than 28 days. During this time, all moisture from adhesive composition completely evaporate, which will help to avoid a short circuit.
- For bimetallic heating system no furniture can be placed. Keep this in mind when rearranging indoors.
- Don't neglect installation additional equipment e.g. RCD. This will protect you from fire in the system and from electric shock in the event of a malfunction.
By following all the instructions prescribed by the manufacturer and our advice, you can create a miracle no worse than that of a neighbor. Now let him envy you: for sure he has water system heating, requiring large monthly costs. Good luck with your repair and warm floor under your feet!
Most modern type space heating, which is gaining more and more popularity, today is a film warm floor. Ease of installation, high performance and a positive effect on the human body allow them to compete with the usual systems of underfloor heating. Consider what the principle of operation of a film underfloor heating is based on, what operational characteristics he possesses, and also find out how much the installation costs and whether it is possible to do it yourself.
The principle of operation of the film underfloor heating
The film heat-insulated floor is represented by heating elements (carbon strips) soldered in a film. They are heated by silver-plated copper conductors, through which electricity. For heating, film floors use infrared radiation, the source of which is carbon strips. The thermostat monitors the floor temperature using a temperature sensor and, in accordance with the set operating mode, turns off or turns on the heating.
The difference between such a system and the more familiar cable and water heated floors is that the heat from IR radiation primarily heats not the air, but the objects around. This principle is similar to natural solar heating and is most comfortable for humans. The beneficial effect of infrared radiation is undeniable, as can be judged by the presence of such systems in medical and recreational institutions.
Do-it-yourself installation of a film underfloor heating
The film warm floor, due to its design, is easily mounted under any floor coverings, from linoleum to ceramic tiles. Unlike heating mats or heating cable, the film does not require pouring the screed. This allows you to easily dismantle the warm floor, and re-lay it in another place, for example, when moving or redevelopment. The whole process of laying the infrared floor can be divided into several stages.
Substrate laying
Substrate installation is not a mandatory procedure, but it allows you to significantly optimize the performance of IR floors. The underlay minimizes heat loss and also creates an additional leveling layer for laying the top coat.
Substrate options:
- fiberboard boards in combination with a foil coating;
- foamed polyethylene;
- lavsan;
- expanded polystyrene.
The most optimal will be substrates that combine insulating and reflective properties, such as lavsan. In addition to retaining heat, such material allows you to direct the heat in the right direction. I.e thermal energy will not heat the neighbors from below, but will remain in a specific room.
Do not neglect the recommendations of the manufacturers of infrared floors. It is highly undesirable to use as a substrate aluminum foil, which can contribute to overheating of the system, failure of some components, and also, under certain conditions, leads to a short circuit.
It is recommended to lay the substrate on a prepared, even and cleaned surface. It is recommended that the screed be filled to the level, and not have small irregularities, in order to avoid bending the film. Hotel sheets of material should be laid with the reflective side up, overlapping, connecting the joints with construction tape. If it is decided to make the substrate from fiberboard boards, then before laying it is necessary to lay the reflective foil.
Mounting the thermostat
The thermostat is installed on the wall, for which a recess is prepared in it for the socket box and the strobe for wires. The thermostats have standard mounting dimensions, so they can be easily attached to the usual electrical sockets. The supply wires from the apartment must be connected to the thermostat. electrical panel, the wire thermal sensor and the ends of the film underfloor heating.
Laying IR film
Before laying, it is necessary to draw up an approximate diagram, taking into account that under the places where furniture is planned to be installed, a warm floor is not mounted in order to avoid overheating. Since manufacturers of IR underfloor heating, such as Caleo, supply the material mainly in rolls, it will need to be cut into separate parts. The places where the film can be cut are marked with the corresponding symbols. It is forbidden to choose the cutting line yourself.
According to the technology, the strips should not reach the walls by about 10 cm on each side. The film is laid on the floor with a copper bus down, and the contact clamps should be located near the wall where the thermostat will be placed. Separate parts of the film are connected in series, and the joints are insulated with bituminous gaskets, exactly the same as the cut points, with opposite side stripes. In order to prevent the isolation points from protruding, recesses can be cut locally in the substrate.
How to connect a temperature sensor
The temperature sensor is necessary element any system of underfloor heating, without which the automation of the process of space heating is not possible. The installation location is best chosen in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Usually it is mounted near the thermostat.
The wire to the sensor and the sensor itself are placed in the prepared recess under the film. The entire wire, up to the thermostat must be laid in corrugated pipe and the end of the pipe must be securely insulated. This will allow you to easily remove the sensor and replace it if it breaks. The turns of the corrugation should be smooth so as not to allow a strong bend in the wire.
Wiring and System Testing
The last stage of installation involves connecting the wires to the thermostat terminals. It is necessary to securely connect the wires from the underfloor heating and the temperature sensor, as well as the supply wires. You need to learn how to connect them to the thermostat from electrical circuit connection provided in the passport for the device. Thermostat terminals can be screw or self-clamping. Denomination circuit breaker for a warm floor should be calculated according to the power consumption of the IR floors.
Before proceeding with laying the floor covering, it is necessary to make sure that the system is installed correctly and functions. To do this, a test inclusion is performed, in which the absence of defects is visually checked. It is also necessary to test various operating modes using the thermostat settings. If the warm floors heat up and turn off in accordance with the set program, the work has been done successfully.
The main technical characteristics of the film underfloor heating
Infrared underfloor heating has many advantages over other systems. It largely depends on the technical characteristics:
- power consumption per square meter of film varies from 150 to 400 W;
- maximum heating temperature from 45 to 60 C;
- efficiency about 98%;
- film thickness up to 0.5 mm;
- film width - 0.5, 0.8, 1 m;
- melting point - 130 C.
The main advantages of film underfloor heating, allowing them to successfully compete with cable and water systems:
- the highest performance compared to other types of underfloor heating - 98%;
- compatible with any top coats floors;
- possibility safe application in damp and wet rooms (showers, saunas);
- ease of installation, allowing you to cope with this work with your own hands;
- the ability to install on walls, ceilings and other surfaces;
- absence of electromagnetic radiation during operation;
- the possibility of dismantling for subsequent laying in another place;
- environmental friendliness of the materials used.
In order for these declared advantages of infrared underfloor heating to correspond in practice to the real state of affairs, you should carefully study the technical data sheet for the product and follow all recommendations during installation.
The price of installing infrared underfloor heating
The bulk of the cost of installing IR underfloor heating consists of the price of the film. Prices per square meter start at 2 thousand rubles, and increase slightly depending on the capacity of the purchased equipment. For example, a square meter of film from the manufacturer Caleo with a power of 170 W will cost from 1900 to 2500 rubles, depending on the store.
Manufacturers supply the film in rolls of various lengths from 1 to 20 m, so choose right size won't be difficult. Depending on what area will be equipped with underfloor heating, the total estimate for the work depends. Also, the choice of thermostat also affects the cost. The market offers Various types of these devices - from simple mechanical to electronic and programmable.
The temperature controller is selected depending on what requirements are imposed on the automation of the heating of the future system. Rough in setting mechanical devices with an adjusting wheel cost an average of 2 - 4 thousand rubles. The price of electronic and programmable controllers with a liquid crystal or touch display can reach up to 10 thousand rubles. Their setting is more precise, and also allows you to set different mode work hours and days.
For work, experts on average charge about 500 rubles per square meter of film, plus 1000 rubles for installing a thermostat. With large volumes, the price will be significant, but it will be possible not to worry about the quality of the work performed and, in the event of a breakdown, make a claim. If you have self-confidence and free time you can do everything with your own hands, especially since the simplicity of the work allows you to do this.
Increased focus on infrared warm floors quite
justified, because specifications this innovative heating system
demonstrate a number of advantages and allow you to equip an energy-efficient home.
Infrared film underfloor heating - what is it
Infrared floor heating is popular due to its unique principle
work. Although it is a kind of electric warm
floor (because it requires electricity to function),
infrared floor is much more economical and safer than its predecessor.
The principle of operation of IR underfloor heating is based on the release
thermal energy in the infrared range. Long wavelength radiation heats up
person and the surface of surrounding objects: furniture, walls. And they, in their
turn, being a secondary source of heat (reflectors) heat the air in
room. This approach to home heating allows you to subjectively feel the heat up to
how the air warms up.
Advantages and disadvantages of infrared underfloor heating
- no electromagnetic radiation;
- simultaneous damage to the entire system is reduced to zero,
due to parallel connection of blocks;
- mounting on any surface (horizontal, vertical,
oblique) does not cause difficulties;
- uniform heating of the floor surface. What is very important when
an infrared warm floor is installed under the laminate;
- do-it-yourself installation will not be difficult;
- it is possible to dismantle the film, for example, when moving;
- installation of the floor is possible in any room
(including wet) and under any type of coating;
- we allow the installation of the film in an open room (veranda,
terrace) and closed (rooms in an apartment or house, office, warehouse, etc.);
- high heat transfer (97%) and efficiency (30% higher according to
compared to other electric underfloor heating systems).
- the need to comply with the rules of connection and operation
systems;
- not recommended as the main source of heating
due to the high inertia of the system (heats up quickly, cools down quickly);
- unlike a water heated floor, film is unstable to
mechanical stress and damage.
Types of infrared film underfloor heating
Despite the relative novelty of the infrared
heating, manufacturers offer several varieties of them:
- film infrared heat-insulated floor. The essence of this system
consists in the fact that the heating element is a fiber laid
between two layers of plastic film. The heating film is flexible,
strength, wear resistance, besides it is a good dielectric.
In turn, the film floor has its own varieties. AT
The division is based on the composition of the heating element:
- carbon - carbon-graphite;
- bimetallic - copper and aluminum.
The first system became more widespread among
users.
- rod infrared heat-insulated floor. The feature of the system in
that the function heating element perform carbon rods,
connected by wire. This is the most innovative of the systems that allow
reduce heating costs by 60% (compared to other systems).
The ubiquity of carbon rod floors is hindered only by their
high price.
Comparison of these systems for specific conditions
functioning, will make it possible to find out which infrared warm floor
it is better.
Do-it-yourself installation of infrared floor heating
Installation instructions for infrared film underfloor heating
consists of a series of successive stages, which need to be studied in detail in order to
exclude the possibility of an error:
- Creation (development) of the project and calculation.
- Selection of equipment and materials.
- Installation of the IR warm floor system.
- Test run (verification).
- Clean finish.
Stage 1 - project development and calculation
An important feature of installing an infrared film floor
is that it is not mounted under furniture. Thus, starting
calculation required amount material and determining the place of laying the film
you need to subtract the area under which the film will not be laid.
Note. For the system to be considered effective, the film
should cover at least 80% of the surface of the room in case the film
the floor will be the main heating system of the house/apartment and at least 40% if
auxiliary (alternative, additional).
Calculation of infrared film underfloor heating
- calculation of the total area of the premises: Sp \u003d a * b * 2;
- calculation of the heating area Sb \u003d Sp - (X, Y, Z)
a, b - length and width of the room, m;
Sb - heating area, sq.m.;
X, Y, Z - fixed and / or low-standing interior items
(furniture, Appliances etc.).
Note. Calculation of the heated area is made with
taking into account the fact that the IR film is laid no closer than 100 mm to any
vertical (adjacent) surface or object.
After calculating the heated area, you need to calculate
sufficient system power. Be aware that the power range
heating film is 150-220 W/sq.m.
Calculation of energy consumption of infrared floor heating
The energy consumption indicator for the film floor can be
calculate by the formula: E \u003d Sp * k * T
Where, E - energy consumption, W / h;
Sp is the total area of the premises, sq.m.;
k - conversion factor (depends on the installed
temperature, if the system is turned on by 40% - the coefficient will be 0.4);
T - thermal power floor.
Infrared floor heating costs are easy to calculate,
knowing the electricity tariff in a particular region.
Calculation of the power of infrared floor heating
It is possible that the area of the room is sufficient
large and for the installation of a film heating system, it is necessary to use
several sets infrared film- in this case, their power
summed up. P total = P1 + P2 + ... + Pi,
If part of the kit was used, the calculation is made according to
formula:
P total = 110 L
P total - the total power of the film floor, W;
P1…Pi is the power of a single set of film, W.
L is the length of the infrared film that is used when
installation;
110 – film floor power conversion factor.
Calculation of the number of thermostats and their installation location
Thermostat function for infrared floor heating -
adjust the heating level.
With regard to the quantity, you should know that when
connection of several sets of film flooring, it is necessary to install
several thermostats, because the power consumption of a warm floor
summed up.
Install the thermostat preferably at a height of at least
150-200 mm. above the level of the finish coating, and for comfortable use on
a height of about a meter (the height of the sockets). The second option is possible if the installation
Infrared floor heating systems are made before the repair work is carried out.
Advice. The thermostat is placed on the wall
located perpendicular to the direction of laying the strips. This approach will allow
reduce wire length.
The thermostat is mounted next to the electrical wiring hidden or
external way.
When exceeding permissible load on the thermostat
There are two connection options:
- zoning and connecting each zone to its own thermostat;
- inclusion in the circuit of a solid state relay or magnetic
starter. In this case, the system will be controlled by one relay. Such
connection requires certain knowledge, which requires the involvement of an electrician.
The scheme of laying infrared film for underfloor heating includes
includes an indication of the direction of placement of the bands. Manufacturers and craftsmen
recommend laying the film along the longer side, this will reduce
the number of cuts of the heating film on the turns.
Rules for placement (laying) of infrared floor film:
- the first row of film should be placed no closer than 100 mm. to
wall (or to another object), but no further than 400 mm;
- film cut line pitch – 250 mm. cut film in others
places is prohibited;
- the distance between adjacent film strips is at least 10
mm.;
- the maximum allowable length of the floor strip is 8,000 mm.
The project of infrared film underfloor heating should
contain:
- calculation of usable area;
- calculation of system power;
- the place of installation of the thermostat (and their number, if
installation of underfloor heating in a large room);
- the direction of laying the film strips;
- number of stripes (depending on the width of the film).
The result of the design should be an installation scheme that
needed to fulfill installation work, and for further
operation and repair.
Stage 2 - selection of equipment and building materials
Film underfloor heating is sold as a kit, which includes:
- infrared film for underfloor heating;
- connecting clips;
- scotch;
- thermostat;
- temperature sensor.
Note. The set depends on the manufacturer. For example,
heat plus, caleo systems contain everything you need to work.
Additionally you need to buy:
- electrical wire (preferably copper, stranded,
section 1.5-2.5 mm);
- thermal insulation material. Electric infrared
underfloor heating allows the use of any type of insulation: foil
film (polymer-coated), polyethylene foam, natural cork and
etc.
- waterproofing film;
Tool: assembly knife, scissors, pliers, screwdriver,
wire cutters, adhesive tape, hammer, tester, drill bit (nozzle for a drill), puncher,
square, pencil.
Stage 3 - installation of infrared floor heating
Step-by-step instructions for beginners with no experience in construction:
1. Preparation (learning security measures)
If the work is performed by a non-professional, you need to familiarize yourself with
installation technique and safety measures:
- minimize walking on the laid film. Protection
films from mechanical damage, possible when moving along it,
achieved through the use of soft covering material (thickness from 5
mm);
- do not allow installation of heavy objects on the film;
- prevent the instrument from falling onto the film.
Safety rules for installing IR floor heating:
- It is forbidden to connect a heating element to the power supply
film rolled up;
- film installation is carried out with no power supply;
- connection to the power supply is carried out strictly according to SNiP and
PUE;
- film installation rules are observed (length, indents,
no overlaps, etc.);
- only suitable insulation is used;
- installation of the film under furniture and other heavy
items;
- installation of a film under low-standing objects is excluded.
These are all items that have an air gap between the bottom
surface and floor less than 400 mm;
- contact of the film with communications, fittings and
other obstacles;
- isolation of all contacts (terminals) and lines is ensured
cut conductive copper busbars;
- the film floor is not installed in rooms where high
risk of frequent water ingress;
- obligatory installation of an RCD (protective device
shutdowns);
- break, cut, bend the heating cable;
- mount the film at temperatures below -5 °C.
2. Preparation of the thermostat installation site
Includes wall chasing (for wires and sensor
temperature) to the floor and drilling a hole for the appliance. Power on
the thermostat is supplied from the nearest outlet.
Advice. It is advisable to lay the wires in the corrugation, this technique
will simplify Maintenance and repairs if needed.
3. Foundation preparation
Infrared film is laid only on a flat and clean surface.
surface. Horizontal deviation of the surface exceeding 3 mm is also
unacceptable. Masters recommend treating the surface with a primer.
Note. Dismantling of the old floor (rough) is not required,
if its surface is not satisfactory.
4. Laying the waterproofing film
The function of the waterproofing film is to protect the electrical
underfloor heating system from moisture coming from below.
5. Installation of thermal insulation material
As evidenced by user reviews - insulation
allows you to increase the heating efficiency due to the fact that heat does not escape
down. However, when installing an infrared floor heating system on the second floor -
rarely anyone used a heater, because. thermal energy will warm
ceiling between the first and second floors.
Advice. Foil insulation should be laid metallized
side to the floor.
6. Laying infrared floor heating
- drawing markings for laying on the floor;
- preparation of a strip of film of the desired length. note
you can cut the film only along the cut line;
- the film is located towards the wall, which
designed to install a thermostat. Oriented strip copper
heater down;
- the recommended distance from the wall of 100 mm is maintained;
- the recommended distance (gap) between
edges of infrared film sheets of 50-100 mm (film overlap is not
allowed);
- strips near the walls are glued to the insulation with adhesive tape
(squares, but not a solid strip). This will avoid shifting the canvas.
7. Installation of clips
At the ends of the copper bus you need to attach metal
clamps. When installing, it is necessary that one side of the clamp fits between the copper
tire and film. And the second was located above the copper surface. Crimping in progress
evenly, without distortion.
8. Connecting the wires of the infrared floor
The wires are installed on the clamp, followed by
insulation and tight crimping. The ends of the copper bus are also insulated in place
cutting. The requirement of parallel connection of wires is observed (right with
right, left to left). In order not to get confused, it is convenient to use a wire of different
colors. Then the wires will be laid under the plinth.
Advice. To prevent the clip with the wire from protruding above the film, its
can be placed in a heater. A square is pre-cut in the insulation
under clamp.
9. Installing the temperature sensor for the thermostat
Mounting temperature sensor for underfloor heating film
10. Connecting the infrared floor heating to the thermostat
Wiring diagram for film floor heating thermostat
Connecting a thermostat for infrared floor heating
Stage 4 - test launch of the system (check)
Test connection of infrared floor heating is mandatory
stage before laying the final floor covering.
The normal laying of the film floor is evidenced by:
- absence of extraneous noise (cod);
- lack of spark;
- uniform heating of the film.
Additionally, the reliability of the isolation of places is checked
wire connection.
Stage 5 - fine finishing
Before you install flooring, film floor
need to cover plastic wrap(100-200 µm). Further work is carried out in
in accordance with the instructions for laying the floor covering.
The specifics of laying the film floor under different types coatings
shown in the picture:
Infrared underfloor heating under laminate (pie) - infrared underfloor heating under laminate, parquet board
Infrared warm floor on a wooden floor is laid
the same way.
Infrared warm floor under linoleum (pie) - infrared warm floor under linoleum, carpet
Infrared underfloor heating under tiles (pie) - infrared underfloor heating under tiles, stone
Masters do not advise using a film floor under a tile,
due to the need to perform "wet" work, which reduces heat transfer
gender.
Operation of infrared film underfloor heating
- when a significant amount of water gets on the film
floor, it must be immediately turned off and dried (naturally);
- do not turn on the system in order, for example, to dry
carpet after wet cleaning);
- it is not allowed to fasten something (for example, a limiter
doors or skirting boards) using hardware. They will damage the film sections;
- it is forbidden to spread carpets, blankets on the floor,
metallized films (foil), as well as rearrange furniture. It may
cause the system to overheat.
Video instruction for installation of infrared floor
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