Steps for Converting Radiators to Multi-Zone Heating

  • Apply pipe dope to threads of the riser pipe and thread it into the radiator pipe. Tighten the connection with pipe wrenches.
  • Trim the end of PEX tubing with a cutter, then use a calibration tool to ensure cut end is clean and perfectly round.
  • Slide the compression sleeve onto the end of the tubing, then push the tubing onto the fitting at bottom of the supply riser.
  • Use a compression tool to crimp the compression sleeve onto the fitting, forming a watertight joint.
  • Attach another length of PEX tubing to the opposite end of the radiator to serve as the return tubing. Run two lengths of tubing—one supply, one return—from each radiator.
  • Mount the manifolds to the wall near the hot water tank.
  • Connect the tubing ends (supply and return) to the manifolds.
  • Run piping from the manifolds to the hot-water tank.

Tools

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Related

How to Create Zones in a Hot-Water Heating System

Tools & Materials

  • Pipe wrench
  • Tubing cutter
  • PEX calibration tool
  • PEX Crimping tool