Need individual zone controller? - GreenBuildingTalk - GreenBuildingTalk - Green Building Forums on Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF), Structural Insulated Panels (SIP), Radiant Heating, Geothermal Heat Pumps, Solar Power, Green Construction Projects - Green Building Technologies

Unanswered Active Topics

Forums Search Members

Need individual zone controller?

Last Post 29 Apr 2019 08:43 PM by Dana1. 3 Replies.

Sort:

	Prev Next
You are not authorized to post a reply.

Author

Messages

mbewley59

New Member

Posts:1

27 Apr 2019 07:12 PM
I'm installing a small (1000 sq ft) closed loop system for my cabin and want to avoid buying the pricey Taco-type control units. I'll have 5 zones and want to be able to open their individual valves only as long as it takes each one to have its water completely exchanged. Q: Could I use individual temp sensors on the return lines to close the valves for that zone? I'd set up an Arduino-type microprocessor programmed to open all zones to start when the circulator pump is turned on, and then close close them each as their return lines reach a certain temperature. This a good or bad idea?

sailawayrb User is Offline

Veteran Member

Posts:2283
Avatar

28 Apr 2019 04:01 AM
Well, it is certainly possible to do what you propose using a microprocessor and electromechanical solenoid valves, but I am not sure I understand why you would want to do so. The actuators and zone valves normally used on HR manifolds to open and close the PEX circuits accomplish this by heating a wax cylinder that than expands to open the valve. This approach uses way less electricity and is extremely reliable for the many cycles that occur over the lifetime of the HR system. The control modules sold to operate these actuators and zone valves as requested by the thermostats also communicate to the pump and heat source so everything is well coordinated. So I think you are trying to solve a problem that doesn’t exist or has already been solved.

Borst Engineering & Construction LLC - Competence, Integrity and Professionalism are integral to all that we do!

newbostonconst User is Offline

Advanced Member

Posts:778

29 Apr 2019 04:12 PM
I tried this type setup on my old house. Certainly is a fun project but there are easier proven ways. I would buy a 5 zone manifold with everything pre plumbed(valves, flow controls, and temp probes), then use a thermostat and a relay to turn on the pump. Sounds like you might be using potable water because you are stating you want to purge it. Most don't support using potable water linked to radiant floors. It is even worse in a cabin that isn't used all the time. It can be done in a house with some loop configurations that constantly flush the water. How are you planning on heating the water?

"Never argue with an idiot. They will only bring you down to their level and beat you with experience." George Carlins

Dana1

Senior Member

Posts:6991

29 Apr 2019 08:43 PM
I can't quite wrap my head around the rationale for installing five micro-zone for a 1000 square foot cabin rather than running it with just 1 or 2 zones. What makes that level of complexity "worth it" for somebody who finds the expense of a zone controller "pricey"? Is this an off-grid application, where every milliwatt-hour matters?