DIY: Solar Radiant Heat

Radiant heat is an excellent way to warm your home and your floors in an inconspicuous way. However, it can be a real energy drain. That's why installing solar radiant heat is an even better idea, because you'll get all the comforts of radiant heat without the huge energy bill or place additional stress on the environment. The installation process can be quite a project, so make sure you have a clear understanding of it before you start removing the floorboards.

Power drill
PEX tubing tracks
PE pipes
Zip ties
Mixing valve
Solar water heater

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all tiles and insulation from underneath the room you will be adding radiant heat. The joist bays should be fully exposed. Drill holes into the joists of the floor, about 2 inches from the edge of the joists. You will be winding tubing through the holes, so make sure to drill the holes in line with each other and in rows along the area of the floor above.
- 2
  Attach the aluminum PEX tubing tracks between each joist. Each track needs to be spaced out about 6 to 8 inches apart. Install PE pipes by snapping them into the tacks. Zip-tie spots that are giving you problems or won't stay put. Add insulation to the underside of the installed PE pipes to keep heat from radiating down and away from the above floor.
- 3
  Attach the input of your radiant heating to your mixing valve, then attach the mixing valve to your solar water heater. This will regulate the temperature and replace cool water with flowing hot water. Connect the radiant heating output to the solar water heater's output pump, pulling cool water to your solar water array on your rooftop.

Burnt Grass Care Tips

How to Get Rid of Flies in Your Backyard

Lawn Basics