The core of underfloor heating system

Heating circuit distributor is used in heating systems with several heating circuits. This is usually the case with underfloor, wall and ceiling heating. With such radiators, there are differences in temperature requirements and start-up times. Therefore, the main task is to divide and regulate the central heating circuit into several independent circuits. As a result, there are several separate flows and returns, which are supplied by a central heat generator. The distributor thus ensures efficient and even heat distribution.

How does the heating circuit distributor work?

Basically, the heating circuit distributor only regulates the heating water provided. It ensures that the heat dissipation is even and controls flow rate and direction. But he can't do it all alone, because one is essential for such a component. To understand why these steps are necessary, let's look at an example: underfloor heating.

Heating circuit distributor for underfloor heating

The radiators in underfloor heating are long pipes that are laid in spiral lines.Unlike conventional radiators, there is no clear flow and return here. Instead, a pipe runs through the entire room and takes care of the heat dissipation. The fact is that with a longer flow path, more heat is given off or lost.

So that every room can be supplied with the same heat, a heating circuit distributor is installed. They intercept the flow from the boiler and divide it into several circuits. So every room that is equipped with underfloor heating has its own cycle . Valves controlled by a thermostat regulate the flow rate.

In most cases, two heating circuit distributors are installed one behind the other. One records both forward and reverse, and one records only reverse. This structure provides a uniform temperature.

The structure of a heating circuit distributor

As is usually the case, this is not a single component, but the core can be reduced to the flow and return connections. These are arranged next to each other and are used to distribute the heating water . Most of the time, forward and reverse are arranged alternately. This achieves a more even heat dissipation. The connections are located on two distribution bars that are arranged vertically. Typically, the top bar holds the primary forward and the bottom bar holds the return.

How many connections a heating circuit manifold has depends entirely on its size. Heating circuit distributors are produced in a rectangular shape using simple metal frames. Other components are the actuator and the control technology, which includes the thermostat and valve insert.

Determine the dimensions of the heating circuit distributor

In order to buy the right distributor, you need to determine the right dimensions. The number of connections must be added up and enough space planned for the vent valve. A heating circuit distributor with four heating circuits, for example, is around 25 cm wide. Forward and reverse bars are about 30 cm to 50 cm apart.

Make the right settings

Despite the technological advantages of modern heating circuit manifolds, there is no getting around professional adjustment. By the way, the settings mean the flow rate, which is regulated via the rotary screws of the float. Ideally, this task should be carried out by a specialist, because this process goes hand in hand with hydraulic balancing.

Since each heating circuit of an underfloor heating system is different in size, precise calculations must be made. Among other things, this also depends on the energetic condition and the heating load of the room. In combination with other factors, the optimum flow rate for the respective heating circuit is determined. 

But the target temperature must also be set correctly. While older heating circuit distributors are equipped with conventional thermostats that are set manually, modern systems run completely automatically. All you have to do is enter the desired temperature.

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