Radiant Heat PEX Stapler

PEX tubing must be secured prior to the concrete pour during in-slab radiant heat installations. The most popular way to do this is with zip ties. Spaced 24 to 32 inches apart with additional ties at each bend, zip ties are a cost-effective method.

A stapler can speed up the process and save valuable time for contractors. SupplyHouse.com carries PEX staplers and staples from Uponor, Malco, and Peter Mangone that connect PEX to foam board insulation beneath a concrete slab.

Taco's Enhanced Zoning Controls

Taco controls have always provided industry-leading quality, flexibility, and ease of installation. Their new ‘-4’ enhanced zone controls retain all the features of previous models, with improvements suggested by contractors in the field. The convenient indicator lights, formerly located on the side of the controls, are now on top. Priority zoning now comes standard, relays are factory-sealed to increase lifespan in any location, and wiring is simplified with added options. Find all of Taco’s switching relays and zone valve controls at SupplyHouse.com.

Webstone Valves at SupplyHouse

Webstone manufactures specialty valves and flanges for hydronic applications. Their Isolator ball valve flanges work with any standard flanged circulator pump and have options for drains and T-handles. Models with the new T-flow ball feature direct flow into the drain from either side of the ball. The Expansion Tank Pro Service Valve includes a drain and simplifies connections to expansion tanks, air eliminators, and make-up water supplies. Visit SupplyHouse.com to find these products and the complete selection of Webstone valves.

Heat Exchanger Sizing

Heat exchangers transfer heat between two mediums without allowing them to come into direct contact. Make sure to size heat exchangers correctly, whether you need one for a snow melt or swimming pool application or to isolate open and closed hydronic heating loops. FlatPlate offers a website for heat exchanger sizing. Sign up for free here, and go to SupplyHouse.com to purchase FlatPlate heat exchangers.

Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostat

Don’t update your heating or cooling system without upgrading your thermostat. Internet-enabled thermostats are the future of the industry and Honeywell’s new Wi-Fi VisionPRO makes it easy to switch. This low-voltage thermostat is compatible with hydronic systems and furnaces up to 3 heat/2 cool. With the same programmability features and sensor capabilities as standard VisionPRO models, the Wi-Fi version also provides access to the thermostat through your home’s Wi-Fi network and remote control through Honeywell’s Total Connect Comfort website and app. Using Adaptive Intelligent Recovery technology, the thermostat conforms to your system to meet desired temperatures at optimal times. Visit SupplyHouse.com to find the Wi-Fi VisionPRO and more Honeywell thermostats.

Circulator Pump Shut-off Flanges

Most circulator pumps in hydronic heating systems connect to system piping via a flanged connection. The flanges needed to make these connections are not usually included with the circulator and are available in several different pipes sizes with either sweat or threaded connections. SupplyHouse.com carries pump flanges from all the leading circulator and flange manufacturers.

Shut-off flanges (also known as service or isolation flanges) can make the job of servicing or replacing a circulator much easier. These flanges isolate the pump from the rest of the system, ensuring that only water between the flanges will be lost and that the entire system will not have to be drained and refilled.

For more information on circulator pump replacement, watch our new video.

Radiant Heat Transfer Plates

Tubing for in-floor hydronic radiant heating systems functions most effectively in concrete slabs, but you can still have warm surfaces on upper floors of your home. Uponor’s Joist Trak panels make this possible. While you can install PEX tubing in under-floor joists without heat transfer panels, suspended pipe installations require higher water temperatures. Staple-up jobs can lead to uneven surface temperatures and “striping” on finished floors. Joist Trak panels solve both these problems, transmitting heat evenly at lower water temperatures. Available for both 3/8” and 1/2” PEX, Joist Trak panels are typically used in 16” joist bays with 8” tube spacing. Find them today at SupplyHouse.com and use our calculator to determine how many you need for your project.

Watch our New Boiler Video

Picking out a new boiler can be a daunting task for many homeowners. Familiarize yourself with important terms and learn the key things to look for by watching our boiler selection video. Selecting the right boiler can make speed up installation and allow your hydronic heating system to operate more efficiently. Visit SupplyHouse.com to watch the video and browse our selection of boilers from the most trusted names in the industry.

Mixing Valves for Any Project

Mixing valves, also known as tempering valves, can be used in a wide-variety of plumbing and heating applications. In domestic water applications they decrease water temperatures to prevent scalding, while still allowing high enough temperatures for dish washing and fighting legionella bacteria. Valves with ASSE 1016 or 1070 approvals should be used for water that will service end users at fixtures.

Three- and four-way mixing valves provide flexibility in hydronic heating applications. Use them to temper system fluid in installations that involve in-floor heating, or even to maintain high enough return water temperatures to prevent flue gas condensation in cast iron boilers. Find the perfect mixing valve for your application at SupplyHouse.com.

Slant/Fin Lynx Boilers

Slant/Fin’s Lynx Series of gas boilers provide industry-leading efficiency by taking advantage of the latest technology in hydronic heating. Available in several sizes for either natural gas of propane, the Lynx can operate at up to 95% efficiency thanks to its modulating and condensing features. Modulation reduces fuel input when demand decreases and fuel gas condensation limits the amount of exhaust waste at low return fluid temperatures. The boilers can be mounted on walls or floors.

Lynx -CB models include a heat exchanger, allowing the boiler to provide domestic hot water in addition to home heating. Visit SupplyHouse.com to find more Slant/Fin products and take advantage of our current sale on Lynx boilers, which runs through November 6.

Expansion Tank Mounting Bracket

Expansion tanks are a key component of closed-loop hydronic heating systems, maintaining system pressure as heated water expands. SupplyHouse.com carries the Amtrol line of expansion tanks, including popular #30 and #60 models. We now offer a convenient mounting bracket for tanks of these sizes. Storm King’s HydroClaw bracket will save you the effort of creating your own mounting mechanism and will make any boiler room look more professional.

Advantages of Indirect Water Heaters

Indirect water heaters take advantage of heat already being produced in hydronic heating systems and provide an efficient option for domestic hot water heating. A dedicated circulator moves fluid from the heating system through a coil in the indirect tank to warm potable water without coming into direct contact with it.

Indirect heaters can generally provide more hot water at faster rates than traditional heaters. Indirects need no venting of their own: the boiler fuels domestic water heating. When used with an indirect tank, boilers can operate more efficiently on longer cycles. Visit SupplyHouse.com today to browse our selection of indirect water heaters.

Uponor Quik Trak Panels

In-floor hydronic radiant heating systems provide heat quietly and efficiently, eliminating the need for radiators or vents in the living space. Best of all, they make occupants more comfortable and give them a warm floor to walk on. Radiant heat systems are perfect for new construction projects, where PEX tubing can be embedded in the slab.

For retrofit projects and suspended floors, consider Uponor's Quik Trak panels. Compatible with 5/16” PEX tubing, Quik Trak panels measure 4-feet long and create 7-inch spacing between tubing. Secure the Quik Trak above the subfloor, placing the finished floor on top of the panels. Wood flooring can be nailed directly to Quik Trak, which uses an aluminum layer to transfer heat evenly. SupplyHouse.com offers Quik Trak packages and a calculator to determine material requirements for specific projects.

Honeywell RedLINK Thermostats

Honeywell’s RedLINK technology continues to give homeowners more options for home comfort control. RedLINK signals allow compatible devices to connect wirelessly and have been successfully tested in homes up to 10,000 square feet. Current RedLINK-enabled thermostats include wireless FocusPRO and all Prestige models.

RedLINK signals allow wireless connections with equipment interface modules and zoning panels, reducing the number of wires in the living space. RedLINK indoor and outdoor remote sensors and Portable Comfort Controls give end users more information and flexibility. Released last year, Honeywell’s RedLINK Internet Gateway takes this flexibility to a new level, letting users control their thermostats from smart phones or anywhere with an internet connection.

For more information on Honeywell products, visit SupplyHouse.com.

Milwaukee Press Tools

Press tools make solderless and brazeless copper connections. Milwaukee’s M12 and M18 Force Logic Press Tools make press connection easier and more reliable. The tools are durable, lightweight (3.8 lbs.), and compatible with the Milwaukee line of M12 and M18 tools and batteries. Designed for cordless one-handed use, the tools' indicator lights shine when a secure connection has been made or when calibration is needed (only every 32,000 crimps). In addition to the tool, the M12 and M18 Force Logic kits include jaws, batteries/charger, and a carrying case. Find more press fittings and Milwaukee tools at SupplyHouse.com.

Slant/Fin Baseboard Sizing

It’s never been easier to size Slant/Fin hydronic baseboard radiators. Slant/Fin’s recently released Hydronic Explorer app for iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch uses detailed room-by-room information to determine the heat loss data needed to size a hydronic boiler and baseboard. Available free for a limited time, the app is perfect for contractors in the field (no internet access is required to use the app) and even do-it-yourselfers. Visit SupplyHouse.com to purchase Slant/Fin baseboards and boilers.

Pre-Insulated AquaPEX

AquaPEX tubing from Uponor is the only PEX-A grade potable water PEX sold on SupplyHouse.com. PEX-A is the highest grade for PEX. Its superior shape memory makes it more flexible and easier to work with. It has better freeze-resistance than PEX-B and PEX-C tubing, and gives installers the ability to fix kinks by applying heat. Only PEX-A is compatible with expansion-type fittings. Such fittings, including Uponor’s ProPEX fittings, have a larger diameter and provide more flow than any other type of PEX adapters.

AquaPEX tubing comes in red, blue, and white to make it easy to identify hot and cold lines. Pre-insulated AquaPEX comes pre-fabricated with 1/2” of insulation with an R-value of approximately 3.0 (depending on tube size). The insulation adds to the tubing’s freeze-resistance, slows heat loss, and helps save time during installation.

Pre-Insulated AquaPEX

AquaPEX tubing from Uponor is the only PEX-A grade potable water PEX sold on PexSupply.com. PEX-A is the highest grade for PEX. Its superior shape memory makes it more flexible and easier to work with. It has better freeze-resistance than PEX-B and PEX-C tubing, and gives installers the ability to fix kinks by applying heat. Only PEX-A is compatible with expansion-type fittings. Such fittings, including Uponor’s ProPEX fittings, have a larger diameter and provide more flow than any other type of PEX adapters.



AquaPEX tubing comes in red, blue, and white to make it easy to identify hot and cold lines. Pre-insulated AquaPEX comes pre-fabricated with 1/2” of insulation with an R-value of approximately 3.0 (depending on tube size). The insulation adds to the tubing’s freeze-resistance, slows heat loss, and helps save time during installation.

Milwaukee Press Tools

Press tools make solderless and brazeless copper connections. Milwaukee’s M12 and M18 Force Logic Press Tools make press connection easier and more reliable. The tools are durable, lightweight (3.8 lbs.), and compatible with the Milwaukee line of M12 and M18 tools and batteries. Designed for cordless one-handed use, the tools' indicator lights shine when a secure connection has been made or when calibration is needed (only every 32,000 crimps). In addition to the tool, the M12 and M18 Force Logic kits include jaws, batteries/charger, and a carrying case. Find more press fittings and Milwaukee tools at PexSupply.com.

Slant/Fin Baseboard Sizing

It’s never been easier to size Slant/Fin hydronic baseboard radiators. Slant/Fin’s recently released Hydronic Explorer app for iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch uses detailed room-by-room information to determine the heat loss data needed to size a hydronic boiler and baseboard. Available free for a limited time, the app is perfect for contractors in the field (no internet access is required to use the app) and even do-it-yourselfers. Visit PexSupply.com to purchase Slant/Fin baseboards and boilers.

Honeywell RedLINK Thermostats

Honeywell’s RedLINK technology continues to give homeowners more options for home comfort control. RedLINK signals allow compatible devices to connect wirelessly and have been successfully tested in homes up to 10,000 square feet. Current RedLINK-enabled thermostats include wireless FocusPRO and all Prestige models.



RedLINK signals allow wireless connections with equipment interface modules and zoning panels, reducing the number of wires in the living space. RedLINK indoor and outdoor remote sensors and Portable Comfort Controls give end users more information and flexibility. Released last year, Honeywell’s RedLINK Internet Gateway takes this flexibility to a new level, letting users control their thermostats from smart phones or anywhere with an internet connection.



For more information on Honeywell products, visit PexSupply.com.

Uponor Quik Trak Panels

In-floor hydronic radiant heating systems provide heat quietly and efficiently, eliminating the need for radiators or vents in the living space. Best of all, they make occupants more comfortable and give them a warm floor to walk on. Radiant heat systems are perfect for new construction projects, where PEX tubing can be embedded in the slab.



For retrofit projects and suspended floors, consider Uponor's Quik Trak panels. Compatible with 5/16” PEX tubing, Quik Trak panels measure 4-feet long and create 7-inch spacing between tubing. Secure the Quik Trak above the subfloor, placing the finished floor on top of the panels. Wood flooring can be nailed directly to Quik Trak, which uses an aluminum layer to transfer heat evenly. PexSupply.com offers Quik Trak packages and a calculator to determine material requirements for specific projects.

Hydronic Snow Melting with PEX

PEX tubing creates a wide-range of options for hydronic heating. From ceiling panels, to wall panels, to the more popular floor panels, PEX makes installations possible in many locations. When installed outdoors, you can use PEX to melt snow and ice. Some snow melt systems keep critical areas, (hospital entrances, etc.) clear, while others just save homeowners the effort of shoveling a driveway or walkway.

Snow melt systems require propylene glycol for freeze protection and proper drainage for melted water. Tubing should be spaced 12” apart at the absolute maximum. Thick insulation below the slab facilitates upward heat transfer. Automatic controls and sensors can initiate the system as needed, but simple manual controls may also be used. Visit SupplyHouse.com for more information on hydronic radiant heating.

Nu-Calgon HVAC Chemicals

Nu-Calgon offers chemicals for air conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing, heating, and food service applications. Now available on SupplyHouse.com, Nu-Calgon’s line includes cleaners, leak detectors, and degreasers. Browse our entire selection today.

SupplyHouse's Calculator Page

Whether you’re planning a new heating or air conditioning system, purchasing a whole-house humidifier, or putting a grease trap in your restaurant, SupplyHouse’s new calculator page can help you find the right products.

Boiler sizing is based on much more than just square footage, and older boilers tend to be oversized. Our BTU Calculator takes more key factors into account and provides a solid estimate. Use our Radiant Heat, Joist Trak, Quki Trak, Baseboard, and Expansion Tank Calculators for more help with hydronic heating systems.

The Mini-Split, Grease Trap, and TrueSTEAM Humidifier Calculators size those products properly for your application.

Watts Quick-Connect Fittings

Push-fit style fittings are perfect for small repairs and do-it-yourself jobs because they do not require tools to make connections. In addition to SharkBite and John Guest push-fit fittings, SupplyHouse carries the Watts Quick-Connect line. Quick-Connect fittings work with a variety of pipe styles, including PEX, copper, CPVC, and polybutylene. The fittings allow tubing to rotate after installation and they provide up to a 30% increase in flow over barbed fittings.

PEX-AL-PEX Bending Tools

PEX-AL-PEX tubing contains a layer of aluminum to make PEX more rigid and prevent oxygen diffusion. Although it doesn’t normally work with the same fittings as standard PEX, PEX-AL-PEX is compatible with PEX uncoilers. Consider a PEX-AL-PEX bending tool to make easy and consistent turns. The Uponor tool works with Uponor and Rifeng PEX-AL-PEX, while Viega’s tool works only with their FostaPEX. For more information on PEX-AL-PEX tubing, visit SupplyHouse.com.

Tamper-Proofing your Thermostat

If you want to prevent unwanted changes to thermostat settings, you have several options. For public places and tenant rooms, a remote sensor might be your best bet. These sensors, such as Honeywell’s C7189U1005 for VisionPRO thermostats, mount in the location where temperature must be sensed. The thermostat itself (where settings are modified) can be installed in a less accessible area. Remote indoor sensors almost always disable the thermostat’s internal sensor. You can also use multiple sensors to create an average temperature for different areas of a house or large room.

Passcode lockout thermostats require a password before the temperature can be changed. Robertshaw i2 Series and White Rodgers Big Blue thermostats have password-protected full screen lockout options.

“Range stop” options are available on a wider variety of thermostats. This feature allows anyone to change the setting on a thermostat, but only within a certain specified range. Use this option if you want to prevent extreme changes to settings, but still give occupants a certain degree of control.

A final option is an old-fashioned guard box around the thermostat.

Plumbing Access Doors

Acudor access doors are available at SupplyHouse.com. The plastic and steel doors conceal valves and other key components while keeping them easily accessible. Drywall doors, duct doors, and fire-rated doors provide options for a wide range of applications.

Bath Fan Installation Locations

A typical hot-water shower produces a pound of steam. This moisture can damage your home and health by weakening drywall and joists, and creating an atmosphere that allows mold and dust mites to thrive. Ventilation fans reduce these threats by pulling moisture and other irritants (cleaning chemicals, dust, pet dander, pollen, tobacco smoke, combustion by-products, etc.) from the air.

Most installers place bathroom ventilation fans in the center of a bathroom, a location that takes advantage of the lights included on many vent fans. Most vent fans (*even those with lights) can also be positioned directly over a shower. This would provide more efficient venting of shower steam. Note that fans which include heaters or decorative grilles should not be installed directly over a shower. *A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is required for electric shock protection when units with lights are positioned over a shower.

Visit SupplyHouse.com to purchase bathroom fans and more ventilation fans.

A Plug-in Wall Thermostat

Most programmable thermostats must be hardwired for power and communication with heating and cooling equipment. Lux WIN100 thermostats simply plug into standard 110-volt wall outlets and use two batteries to power the clock and maintain settings in the event of a power outage. The thermostats have a plug receptacle into which the cord from heating or cooling units can be connected. Perfect for window air conditioners and space heaters, the WIN100 lets these units operate based on room temperature and a program schedule. Note that these thermostats work only with heating and cooling equipment that automatically restart cooling or heating operation after power reconnection. Find this thermostat and more Lux products on SupplyHouse.com.

Floor Coverings for Radiant Heat

In-floor radiant heat systems warm objects instead of air, creating optimal comfort and keeping your feet warm. For these systems to operate most effectively, installers must maximize the amount of heat that travels upward from the hydronic piping or electric heating mats. Insulating underneath such tubing or mats is crucial, but don’t disregard floor coverings.

Radiant heat systems work with many types of flooring, including tile and hardwood. Wood floors can be damaged if surface temperatures get too hot, with maximum temperatures usually somewhere around 82°F (always follow the flooring manufacturer’s recommendations). It is possible to have a heated floor in a carpeted room, but carpet (especially thick carpet) prevents more heat from reaching the surface than any other type of floor covering. The ideal surface for a radiant heat system has no covering at all: bare concrete, which can be polished and colored for an attractive finish, brings your feet closest to the warmth embedded below.

For more information on radiant heat systems, visit SupplyHouse.com.

PEX Tubing Uncoilers

Working with PEX coils can be difficult, especially if there are only one or two people on the job. While PEX-A grade tubing makes the task easier, cold temperatures stiffen any type of PEX. Use a PEX tubing uncoiler to limit frustration and speed up installations. Uponor’s uncoiler works with PEX sizes up to 1” and coil lengths of up to 1,000 feet. Find it on SupplyHouse.com.

Replace Ugly Baseboard Covers

Heating season is just around the corner. Take time this summer to fix old baseboard covers and improve the appearance of your home. SupplyHouse.com carries Slant/Fin replacement baseboard covers. “Cover only” models include everything except the baseboard heating element.

The Baseboarders line of DIY baseboard heater covers offers easy-to-install alternatives with unique designs. Compatible with most standard-sized baseboards, the covers prevent small children from touching the element and have a lifetime rust-proof guarantee. Choose between perforated and slotted designs, and check out product reviews and pictures from previous satisfied customers.

Viega PEX Press Fittings

Viega PEX Press tools and fittings work with Viega FostaPEX tubing and any brand of standard, SDR-9 PEX tubing. Available in sizes up to 1-1/2”, PEX Press fittings come with press sleeves color-coded by size. The fittings were introduced in 1983 and have proven to be a reliable option for PEX plumbing and heating applications.

Manual PEX Press tools are available in sizes up to 1”. Battery tools can make connections in these smaller sizes, but they are required for tubing larger than 1”. Watch our PEX Press video to see the fittings in action.

Uponor PEX Rails

Uponor’s PEX Rails are 6-1/2 feet long, with options for 1/2”, 5/8”, and 3/4” tubing. Use them to secure PEX tubing in concrete overpour radiant heat installations. The rails connect to wood subfloors with 1” wood screws and require a minimum poured floor underlayment of 1-1/2”. Buy PEX Rails and other Uponor radiant heat accessories at SupplyHouse.com.

Sizing Bath Fans

When you’re picking a new bathroom ventilation fan, you will often come across the term ‘CFM.’ An abbreviation for cubic feet per minute, CFM quantifies the amount of air that a fan can move. Larger bathrooms require fans with higher CFM ratings.

According to Fantech, the Home Ventilating Institute recommends 1 CFM per square foot in bathrooms up to 100 square feet. Larger bathrooms should be sized based on fixtures. All standard tubs, showers, and toilets require 50 CFM each. Large tubs and whirlpools need 100 CFM per fixture.

Visit SupplyHouse.com to find a large selection of bath fans.

Hydronic Heating Delta-T

In any hydronic heating system, fluid will be hotter when it leaves a boiler than when it returns. This temperature difference is known as the design temperature difference or “delta-t.” Many commercial designs incorporate very high delta-t ratings, but residential systems generally have standard ratings based on system type (20°F for baseboards and 10°F for in-floor radiant heat systems). Systems with lower delta-t designs have higher head pressure and may need larger circulator pumps. They provide more even surface temperatures for in-floor hydronic systems.

Uponor PEX & Spray Foam Insulation

Uponor hePEX and AquaPEX tubing is approved for use with closed-cell spray foam insulation. Direct contact with such insulation does not void the warranty on hePEX, AquaPEX, or brass ProPEX fittings, as long as temperatures of the insulation do not exceed 250°F due to chemical reactions during the application. To avoid this situation, Uponor recommends a 15 minute break after applying each 2” layer. Do not use spray foam insulation with Uponor’s Engineered Polymer (EP) fittings unless the fittings are covered with waterproof protection.

Rigid PEX Supports

The flexibility of PEX tubing makes it an attractive option for both new construction and retrofit plumbing and heating installations. PEX’s flexibility makes it easier to run, reduces the number of necessary fittings, and gives it added freeze resistance. One minor downside is that PEX can be more difficult to run through walls. Uponor’s Metal Straight-Through Supports provide a safe and easy way to pass 1/2” PEX tubing through a floor, wall, or ceiling. The zinc-plated supports have four nail holes, cover 3-1/2” of a piece of tubing, and are available on SupplyHouse.com.

SharkBite 2XL Fittings

SharkBite push-fit fittings revolutionized plumbing and hydronic heating, making installations and repairs faster and easier for professionals and do-it-yourselfers alike. Previously available in sizes only up to 1”, SharkBite now makes fittings for larger pipe. SharkBite 2XL fittings work with 1-1/4”, 1-1/2”, and 2” PEX, copper, and CPVC.

Use PEX stiffeners for PEX connections and “Shark Shifter” De-Mount Tools to remove any 2XL fitting (both available separately). Find the complete line of SharkBite fittings on SupplyHouse.com.

Mini-Splits for Multiple Zones

Are you looking for a new air conditioning solution this summer? Consider installing a ductless mini-split air conditioning system. Mini-Splits are a quiet and efficient alternative to window units and central air systems. They make it easy to set up zones in different rooms. Multi-Split outdoor units work with multiple indoor units, which are controlled independently.

Please note that multi-split compressors only work with between two and four indoor units. If you try to run a multi-split unit with only one indoor component, refrigerant returning to the compressor will cause a error code.

SupplyHouse.com carries Panasonic and LG mini-split systems.

Primary/Secondary Piping

Primary/Secondary piping hydraulically isolates circuits of a hydronic heating system, potentially decreasing circulator pump sizes. It’s necessary with condensing boilers or tankless water heaters used for heating in order to overcome the large pressure drop through the heat source.

You can create primary/secondary piping with closely-spaced tees, but use Taco’s Hydraulic Separator or Bell & Gossett’s Primary/Secondary Header to make the job easier. Available in several sizes and configurations, these devices even include an air vent. To find more heating supplies, go to SupplyHouse.com.

Mini-Split Inverter Technology

Ductless Mini-Split air conditioners combine indoor evaporator units with outdoor condensers and are available in single-zone and multi-zone configurations. Among the many advantages offered by mini-split systems is inverter technology. It modifies the speed of compressor rotations based on the necessary heat output. Traditional compressor motors operate at a fixed speed, which reduces efficiency and shrinks a system's range of cooling output. Additionally, inverter units consume less electricity and operate more quietly than standard models. SupplyHouse.com carries mini-split systems from LG and Panasonic.

ThermaPEX Oxygen Barrier Tubing

ThermaPEX PEX tubing is graded PEX-A, which gives it increased flexibility and makes it easier to work with. Compatible with expansion-type fittings, ThermaPEX’s oxygen barrier allows you to use it in closed-loop hydronic heating systems. ThermaPEX’s bend radius gives it another major advantage. While most PEX tubing can only be bent to a radius equal to six-times its outside diameter, ThermaPEX is capable of a four-times-the-OD radius. To purchase ThermaPEX in 3/8”, 1/2”, 5/8”, 3/4”, and 1” coils, please visit www.supplyhouse.com.

Connect PEX to Copper

SupplyHouse.com stocks a wide variety of fittings that make it possible to connect PEX to copper. Learn about the different options in our new video, “Connecting PEX Tubing to Copper Pipe.” Whether you own PEX tools, a soldering torch, or no tools at all, the parts you need are at SupplyHouse.com.

FostaPEX Prep Tool

Viega FostaPEX tubing contains an aluminum layer, but its dimensions differ from standard PEX-Aluminum-PEX. FostaPEX only works with one kind of fitting: PEX Press. While PEX Press fittings also work with any kind of standard, SDR-9 PEX tubing, make sure you prepare FostaPEX tubing properly prior to making any connections.

Use Viega’s FostaPEX Prep Tool to do this. Available in two configurations (one for 1/2” and 3/4” tubing and one for 5/8” and 1”), the tool peels back the outer layers of the FostaPEX and makes it compatible with PEX Press fittings. Visit SupplyHouse.com today to purchase more Viega products.

Milwaukee Laser Thermometer

The Milwaukee Laser TEMP-GUN Thermometer provides an easy and safe way to measure almost any temperature. With a temperature range of -20°F to 932°F (-30°C to 450°C), the thermometer operates on three AA batteries (which are included). Use the gun to get temperature readings for unreachable surfaces or items that are too hot to touch. The gun features an easy-to-read display and a solid grip. It is available on SupplyHouse.com.

Rifeng Manifold Packages

Rifeng radiant heat manifolds are stainless steel and available with between two and twelve loops. Use the proper EK20 fittings to connect 3/8”, 1/2”, or 5/8” PEX or PEX-AL-PEX tubing to the manifolds. All Rifeng manifolds come with flow meters, as well as shut-off valves with temperature gauges. Manifold “packages” include loop fittings for each supply and return connection for the specified tubing and size.

Honeywell F76S Pre-filters

Use Honeywell F76S brass water filters to remove sediment and other debris from your water supply. F76S models are easy to clean and ideal as pre-filters for well water lines. Available in sizes ranging from 1/2” to 2”, their clear plastic sumps allow you to view internal components. 100-micron screens come standard, with other sizes obtainable by request. Visit SupplyHouse.com to purchase these and other Honeywell products.

Hand Cleaner for Plumbers

Hercules Chemical makes professional-grade plumbing parts and compounds, including plumbers caulk, PVC cement, and pipe joint tape. They also offer the perfect solution for cleaning your hands after a long day on the job. Hercules for Hands Pumice Lotion Hand Cleaner removes the toughest plumbing chemicals, moisturizes with aloe vera, vitamin E, and lanolin, and does not even require water or rinsing. 15-ounce containers are available at SupplyHouse.com.

PEX Press Colors

Viega’s PEX Press fittings are compatible with standard PEX tubing and FostaPEX PEX-AL-PEX. They are a great option for MANABLOC installations. Both PEX Press fittings and tools come color-coded by size:

• 3/8” = Green
• 1/2” = Yellow
• 3/4” = Blue
• 1” = Orange

Flip Hot/Cold Lines on a MANABLOC

MANABLOC manifolds from Viega make it easy to run PEX lines to plumbing fixtures throughout your home. The MANABLOC combines your hot and cold manifolds into a single physical unit. Hot ports are labeled red and cold lines are labeled blue. All MANABLOCs come with more cold lines than hot lines (for toilets, outdoor fixtures, etc.). Stickers in the box let you mark each line with its associated fixture.

Besides possible confusion over the colors, there would be no reason that you couldn’t use the all the blue ports of a MANABLOC for hot lines and the all the red ports for cold lines (unless you must use the second cold supply port to feed your water heater). Although doing this is entirely possible in theory, it is unlikely that it would ever be necessary. Visit SupplyHouse.com to buy MANABLOCs and accessories.

PEX-AL-PEX Bend Radius

PEX-Aluminum-PEX does not have the same dimensions as standard PEX. PEX-AL-PEX’s wider diameter and aluminum layer make its minimum bend radius ratings different from those of standard PEX. See the chart below for minimum bend radius ratings for PEX-AL-PEX tubing. To purchase PEX-AL-PEX, visit SupplyHouse.com.

• 1/2” = 3.20”
• 5/8” = 4.00”
• 3/4” = 5.00”
• 1” = 6.00”

Honeywell AM-1 Mixing Valves

Honeywell AM Series Thermostatic Mixing Valves temper hot water to desired set point temperatures. Use them to prevent scalding in plumbing systems or to achieve proper temperatures in hydronic heating systems. Available in 1/2”, 3/4”, and 1” sizes, the valves can be ordered for plumbing or heating applications. Heating valves have higher temperature ratings, but no ASSE approval. Connection options include NPT, union CPVC, union PEX, union sweat, and union NPT. Safety features reduce flow if the valve loses its cold water supply. See SupplyHouse.com for more mixing valves and Honeywell products.

Taco Hydro Air Fan Control

Taco’s Hydro Air Fan Control links a hydronic air handler to a thermostat. With clearly labeled wiring and a DPDT relay, the control includes an end switch to start the boiler and/or circulator. Both available controls work with single-speed or two-speed air handlers and can operate in cooling mode. Other features include indicator lights and a three-year warranty. Visit SupplyHouse.com to find more Taco products.

Joist Trak Installation Noise

Uponor’s Joist Trak panels allow even and efficient heat transfer in hydronic radiant heat systems in which PEX tubing is installed in a joist bay. Just screw that panels to the joist bay and insulate below to maximize upward heat transfer.

Since PEX expands linearly as it gets hotter, it is possible that there will be noise in Joist Trak installations unless proper precautions are taken. Noise occurs when tubing expands and hits the far end of the hole drilled through a joist at a 90-degree turn at the end of a run. If tubing continues to expand, it has nowhere to move. The manufacturer recommends several methods for combating this noise:

• Drill larger holes in the joist
• Use open-truss span joints so that holes through the joist are not necessary
• Install shorter runs
• Use lower water temperatures when possible
• Install expansion loops for longer runs

Panasonic Mini-Split AC

Panasonic ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are available at SupplyHouse.com, replacing the Sanyo line of mini-splits. Mini-split systems offer a great alternative to window air conditioners and central air systems. They operate quietly and can be zoned with ease. Panasonic models feature inverter motors for energy efficiency. Panasonic offers single-zone, multi-zone, and heat pump models, ranging from 9,000 to 36,000 BTUs.

How to Connect PEX-AL-PEX

PEX-Aluminum–PEX tubing is only compatible with select fittings. Standard PEX-AL-PEX only works with press or compression fittings designed for PEX-AL-PEX. This limited selection can make it difficult to find fittings.

Let’s say you had to connect two pieces of 1/2” PEX-AL-PEX together. You could use Uponor’s D4545050 coupling, but this requires a proper press tool. Without the tool you would need to use two separate compression fittings and a piece to connect them. Try either two PAP-0500M fittings along with a TB1-08 coupling, or two D4120500 fittings and a A4322020 nipple. The particular fittings required differ for other PEX-AL-PEX sizes. Visit SupplyHouse.com to browse our full selection. (*Please note that Viega's FostaPEX tubing does not work with the fittings mentioned above. It requires Viega PEX Press fittings.)

Gallo Gun for Condensate Drains

DiversiTech’s Charles Gallo drain gun uses carbon dioxide (CO2) to clear condensate drain lines. Compatible with drain openings between 3/8” and 3/4”, the CO2 it uses is cleaner than water and more environmentally-friendly than refrigerant. Its flexible hose makes hard-to-reach drains accessible. CO2 cartridges are available separately, but cannot be purchased on SupplyHouse.com due to shipping restrictions.

Watts Onix Tubing

Onix Tubing from Watts Radiant provides several advantages in radiant heat installations. Available in sizes ranging from 3/8” to 1”, Onix tubing is flexible, durable, freeze-resistant, and UV-resistant. Backed by a 25-year warranty, Onix tubing cannot be kinked. It contains an aluminum oxygen barrier and is rated to temperatures up to 180°F. The tubing requires special fittings and clamps, which do not need special tools for installation. Go to www.supplyhouse.com to buy on Onix Tubing and other Watts products.

Radiant Heat: Not Just for Floors

Almost all radiant heat installations use the floor as a heating panel, but it’s also possible to heat a space through its walls or ceilings. Radiant heat can travel in any direction, but there are several advantages and disadvantages to these unusual systems. Although ceiling and wall systems don’t provide a warm floor, they may be necessary in rooms with thick carpet (through which floor heat would have difficulty travelling).

Like floor panels, ceiling and wall panels heat rooms evenly, with minimal noise and air currents. They provide the additional benefits of potentially higher fluid temperatures/heat output and easy retrofitting. Both wall and ceiling radiant hydronic panels use heat transfer plates. To maximize heat transfer to the heated space, they should be more heavily insulated than standard walls and ceilings.

Differential Bypass Valves

Differential bypass valves regulate pressure in hydronic heating systems that are zoned with zone valves and have a fixed-speed circulator pump. Without the bypass valve, problems can arise when certain zone valves close as the areas they control no longer need heat. Differential bypass valves prevent excessively high fluid flow velocity and the noise it can cause. They are installed after the circulator pump’s discharge and use a spring to modify system flow to more acceptable levels. SupplyHouse carries differential bypass valves manufactured by Taco and Bell & Gossett.

Portable Electric Copper Cutter

Cut copper tubing with ease using Milwaukee’s M12 Cordless Copper Tubing Cutter. Compatible with other M12 tools, the 2471-21 kit includes the cutting tool along with a carrying case, rechargeable 12-volt lithium ion battery (capable of up to 200 cuts per charge), and charger. The tool can also be purchased by itself (part 2471-20). The water-resistant tool displays a battery indicator and an LED light to project a straight line on the tubing. It works with copper tube sizes ranging from 3/8” to 1” (1/2” to 1-1/8” OD), and automatically adjusts to the proper size prior to making the cuts.

A.O. Smith Cross-Reference

A.O. Smith makes gas, electric, and oil water heaters in a wide-variety of sizes and configurations. If you need to replace an existing water heater, consider an A.O. Smith. Their convenient and easy-to-use cross-reference tool lets you match any water heater to an A.O. Smith equivalent. SupplyHouse.com carries A.O. Smith water heaters and replacement parts.

Viega FostaPEX Tubing

Viega’s FostaPEX tubing provides a unique option for PEX installations. Its aluminum layer serves as an oxygen barrier, making FostaPEX compatible with closed-loop heating systems. The aluminum also keeps the tubing more rigid and reduces linear expansion. Unlike other PEX-AL-PEX, FostaPEX has the same dimensions as standard PEX tubing. Only PEX Press fittings can be used to make connections with FostaPEX tubing. FostaPEX is lead-free and NSF-approved for use with potable water.

To buy FostaPEX tubing, or other Viega products, please visit SupplyHouse.com.

Hot Water on D'Mand

Domestic hot water recirculation pumps eliminate annoying wait times for hot water. Water sitting in hot water pipes loses heat. This water is normally wasted, as users let it run down the drain until new hot water arrives from the water heater.

Taco’s D’MAND hot water recirculation system gets rid of this waste and the wait time, using a small and quiet circulator to cycle lukewarm or cold water back to the water heater. A push button or motion sensor can be used to activate the pump with the push of a button or when someone enters a bathroom. Visit SupplyHouse.com to find more Taco products and plumbing supplies.

Average Hot Water Usage

When sizing a tank-style water heater, make sure that the unit you install can provide sufficient hot water during the daily period of peak usage (based on recovery rate and first hour ratings). Doing so will ensure that you never run out of hot water. It’s important to determine how much hot water you use. Flow rates at fixtures can vary (especially with very new or very old equipment), but the figures below reflect U.S. government data for average hot water consumption by appliance per use.

• Clothes washer: 7 gallons
• Shower: 10 gallons
• Dishwasher: 6 gallons
• Kitchen faucet: 2 gallons per minute
• Bathroom faucet: .05 gallons per minute

PEX-AL-PEX Dimensions

PEX-Aluminum-PEX (PEX-AL-PEX) is PEX tubing with an embedded aluminum layer. The aluminum acts as an oxygen barrier, keeps the tubing more rigid, and cuts down on linear expansion. It also changes the dimensions of PEX-AL-PEX, making them different from those of regular PEX tubing. See the chart below for the inside diameters (ID) and outside diameters (OD) for each nominal PEX-AL-PEX size.

• 1/2”: 0.490” ID; 0.636” OD

• 5/8”: 0.627” ID; 0.793” OD

• 3/4”: 0.792” ID; 0.990” OD

• 1”: 1.014” ID; 1.266 OD

*These dimensions do not apply to Viega’s FostaPEX tubing

Custom Colors for Runtal Radiators

Runtal manufactures high-quality and stylish hydronic and electric radiators, from traditional radiators to baseboards and towel warmers. White is the standard color for all these items, but Runtal offers a wide variety of color options. To order a Runtal product with a custom color, contact a customer service representative at SupplyHouse.com. Please note that these are special-order items and often require an extended lead time.

Control Thermostats Online

Honeywell’s new RedLINK Internet Gateway provides remote access to any Honeywell RedLINK system. It is compatible with all Prestige and Wireless FocusPRO thermostats (previous models included) and E-Connect electric heat controls. The gateway plugs directly into a router and allows users to control thermostats online using Honeywell’s Total Comfort Connect website and apps. The service requires no monthly fees.

Users can create personalized names for different zones and locations, configuring up to six email alerts (backup contacts, contractors, etc.) and adding multiple users with various levels of access to the system. Total Comfort Connect and the Internet Gateway give authorized users the ability to modify system (heat, cool, off, etc.) and temperature (by zone) settings from computers, tablets, and smart phones. The internet portal also displays outdoor temperature and humidity, if a proper sensor is installed at the location.

Stock Up on SharkBite

SharkBite fittings save time and energy for do-it-yourselfers and professional installers alike, providing leak-free connections for PEX, copper, and CPVC pipe. Watch our SharkBite video to see the fittings in action.

You can save 5% on SharkBite fittings and the entire line of Cash-Acme products now until May 15th. Just go to SupplyHouse.com and enter coupon code CASH at checkout.

Triangle Tube Trimax

Triangle Tube’s Prestige SOLO and Prestige Excellence boilers just got better with the new Trimax controller. The updated models are now available at SupplyHouse.com. The Trimax control makes setup easy, allowing configuration in as little as 60 seconds. The Trimax can manage multiple zones and an indirect water heater without requiring additional controls. Advanced troubleshooting makes diagnosing problems simpler.

How to Shop for PEX Tubing

Shopping for PEX tubing is easy for those who have done it before, but it can be a daunting task for many do-it-yourselfers and installers who have never used PEX. If you don’t know what an oxygen barrier is or you don’t know the different grades assigned to PEX tubing, watch our video “How To Shop for PEX Tubing.” Check out our YouTube channel for more information on PEX products.

Easy-Up Manifolds for Ultra Boiler

The Weil-McLain Ultra boiler is available in six sizes and offers top efficiency with an LCD display. As a condensing boiler, it should be configured with primary/secondary piping. Easy-Up Manifolds for Ultra boilers work with the circulator that is included with the boiler to create such piping. They come with dielectric unions, shut-off valves, a check valve, a safety relief valve, and optional connections to indirect water heaters. The Easy-Up saves time and effort, making any job look professional.

Available at SupplyHouse.com, part 383-500-649 is compatible with Ultra 80-105 models. Use part 383-500-661 with larger Ultra boilers.

Painting Baseboards

SupplyHouse.com offers Slant/Fin and Baseboarders baseboard heater covers. Several designs are available, but only in white. If you need to paint these covers to match the color or design of a room, use a latex or enamel-based spray paint for best results. Slant/Fin recommends the Rustoleum brand.

Bradford White Cross-Reference

Looking for a new water heater? Consider the Bradford White brand. Bradford White models are quality-made in the USA and available at SupplyHouse.com. Bradford White offers gas (NG or LP), electric, and oil models. To see which Bradford White water heater most closely matches your existing one, use the cross-reference tool on Bradford White’s website. Have the brand and model number of your current water heater ready.

Fittings for PEX-AL-PEX

PEX-Aluminum-PEX, or PEX-AL-PEX, is PEX tubing with an embedded layer of aluminum. The aluminum serves as an oxygen barrier and keeps the tubing rigid. PEX-AL-PEX undergoes less linear expansion than standard PEX tubing. PEX-AL-PEX has a larger diameter than standard PEX, and does not work with the same fittings.

There are few options for fittings with PEX-AL-PEX. Standard PEX-AL-PEX tubing only works with PEX-AL-PEX compression fittings and Uponor’s MLC press fittings.

Viega’s FostaPEX PEX-AL-PEX is not sized the same as standard PEX-AL-PEX. FostaPEX only works with Viega’s PEX Press fitting system. PEX Press fittings are also compatible with standard PEX tubing, but not PEX-AL-PEX.

PEX Tubing & Shower Heads

PEX tubing increases the speed of plumbing installations and decreases materials costs. It’s perfect for retrofit applications because it’s easier to run through walls. PEX can run all the way up to plumbing fixtures, but it should not be placed between tub spouts and shower heads. PEX has a smaller inside diameter than copper, but any flow reduction is compensated for over longer runs since few fittings are needed with PEX. The distance between tub spouts and shower heads is so short that using PEX here can cause reduced flow through the shower head.

Temperature & Pressure Gauges

Temperature and pressure gauges allow you to monitor fluid conditions in your heating system. SupplyHouse offers several options, including the TD-090 & TD-165 from Honeywell, 510-218-097 & 510-218-099 from Weil-McLain, and TR25-CB1-60/250 & TW25-CB2-250-25 from Boshart. Most of these part have 1/4” male threaded connections and can be installed with properly-sized tees and bushings.

Save 5% on Tees

At SupplyHouse.com we stock tees for a full selection of tees for plumbing and heating applications. We have you covered whether you need copper tees, PEX tees, brass tees, black iron tees, galvanized tees, PVC tees, SharkBite tees, or more. Look here first for unusual and hard-to-find sizes. Now through April 26th, you can save 5% on all tees we sell with coupon code BIRDIE (in honor of golf season).

Use Taco's Website for Tech Help

Taco offers a wide variety of American-made parts for residential and commercial hydronic heating systems. They also offer unrivaled technical support. Taco’s website, taco-hvac.com, is a great resource for HVAC installers and do-it-yourselfers. The “Wizards” section gives easy online help, including a circulator pump selector and a selection of wiring guides. Visit SupplyHouse.com to purchase Taco products.

Peter Mangone PEX Staplers

Peter Mangone staplers secure PEX tubing to wood or foam surfaces. Manual and pneumatic staplers work with both flush-mount and stand-off staples for 3/8”, 1/2”, 5/8”, and 3/4” PEX. The Peter Mangone Reddi-Strip stapler uses Reddi-Strip Staples to connect PEX to 1”, 1-1/2”, or 2” thick foam board insulation. The staplers are easy to use, save time, and can be purchased from SupplyHouse.

Easy Heat In-Pipe Heating Cables

Easy Heat’s in-pipe heating cable products prevent pipe freeze and offer several unique advantages. Each package includes an adjustable thermostat that turns the cable on and off as needed. Easy Heat cables can also be insulated (meaning even more energy efficiency) and plugged directly into a standard 120-volt outlet with the included line cord. The in-line heater is only designed and approved for installation on 1-1/4" and 1" polyethylene pipes. To find more Easy Heat products, visit SupplyHouse.com.

SupplyHouse.com Returns

It’s easy to set up a return for items purchased on SupplyHouse.com. Just use our online RGA tool to get the return form you’ll need to include with the returned item. No restocking fee applies to items purchased within 30 days. Watch our returns video and read our full return policy for more information.

Radiant Heat Slab Insulation

Concrete slabs that will be used for radiant heating must be insulated adequately. Proper insulation minimizes downward heat loss and maximizes the amount of heat that will do its intended job: heating the floor. The Radiant Professionals Alliance recommends insulation with an R-value equal to at least 0.125-times the difference between the desired indoor temperature and the outdoor design temperature. A building in New York City (15°F design temperature), for example, with a 70°F desired indoor temperature would require a minimum R-value of 6.875 for its under-slab insulation (0.125 x [70°F - 15°F]). Visit SupplyHouse.com to purchase radiant heat insulation and other radiant heat products.

Photograph PEX Layouts

PEX tubing that’s embedded in concrete slabs can heat buildings – either immediately after construction or years down the road. Putting tubing in newly-poured slabs expands future options, while adding relatively little to total construction costs. Whether or not you have immediate plans to start the heating system, always take a picture of the tubing layout before the concrete pour. The small effort required will pay off down the road if you or subsequent owners ever need to see the layout.

Little Giant Pump Sale

Little Giant offers pumps for a variety of jobs and applications. Whether you need a sump pump, effluent pump, sewage pump, condensate pump, or pool pump you can save money at SupplyHouse.com. Save even more through 4/12/12. Use discount code GIANT to save 5% on Little Giant products.

How do Expansion Tanks Work?

Watch our latest video on expansion tanks to learn how these important devices work. Diaphragm-style expansion tanks use pressurized air to maintain steady pressure in closed-loop systems. For most residential heating systems, this means 12 psi. To purchase expansion tanks, please visit SupplyHouse.com.

Flow Meters for Uponor Manifolds

Two styles of visual flow meters are available for separate purchase with Uponor’s TruFLOW heating manifolds. Manifolds with balancing valves or flow control allow users and installers to provide different circuits with different flow rates. Most radiant heat designs call for flow rates below 0.8 gallons per minute (GPM), making the A2640015 flow meters adequate. They display flow rates between 0.15 and 0.8 GPM. For TruFLOW installations with higher flow requirements, use the A2640027 flow meters, which go from 0.25 to 2.0 GPM.

Visual flow meters attach to the return side of a heating manifold and display the flow that is going through a particular circuit. They cannot function if they are positioned upside down. Visual flow meters come included with Uponor’s EP heating manifolds. See SupplyHouse.com for more Uponor products.

Radiant Heat Pressure Testing

PEX tubing is durable and rarely leaks, but it's possible for the heavy equipment at hectic job sites to damage exposed PEX prior to the concrete pour. As a result, it’s always wise to pressure test PEX tubing before the pour takes place. This prevents a worst-case scenario of discovering a leak after the tubing is embedded.

To test the pressure, just attach a pressure gauge and Schrader valve to either the supply or return side of the manifold(s) with the proper fitting, cap off the other side, and fill the system with air. There are no leaks in the tubing if it can hold 60-75 psi for 24 hours. SupplyHouse.com carries Uponor’s E6122000 pressure test kit, as well as the 3610005 kit for Mr. PEX radiant heat manifolds.

Get the A.O. Smith Mobile App

A.O. Smith’s new “A.O. Smith Warranty Check App” is a useful resource for plumbers and contractors with access to Apple or Android mobile devices. The app, which can be downloaded for free at A.O. Smith’s website, the iTunes Store, or the Android Market, allows users to view warranty and manufacturing information on any A.O. Smith residential or commercial water heater. SupplyHouse.com is your source for A.O. Smith water heaters and replacement parts.

Save 5% on Aqua-Pure

Aqua-Pure water filters from 3M can purify the drinking water in your home. Save 5% on select Aqua-Pure items through March 29 at SupplyHouse.com with code WATER. Take advantage of this opportunity to stock up on replacement cartridges or purchase a new system.

PEX Cutting Tools

PEX tubing cutters ensure that you get the even and straight cuts necessary for making secure PEX fitting connections. You should always use a cutter designed specifically for PEX rather than a generic tube cutter. SupplyHouse offers a variety of PEX cutters from several different manufacturers.

Takagi Outdoor Tankless Heaters

Takagi tankless water heaters provide efficient management of hot water. These gas-fired units require proper venting and discharge, but this task is simpler for outdoor units. For T-KJr and T-K3 units, an outdoor vent cap is all that’s needed. Just place it on top of the unit to prevent water and debris from entering the heater. Takagi’s outdoor water heaters feature freeze protection technology, but they are only designed for installation in warm, temperate climates.

Visit SupplyHouse.com to browse our selection of tankless water heaters and Takagi products.

Ecobee Thermostats

Ecobee thermostats, now for sale at SupplyHouse.com, offer a modern solution for home comfort. Smart thermostats connect to an equipment interface module to link wirelessly with other system components. WiFi gives users access to a web portal where they can change thermostat settings, see system alerts, and view reports on system energy usage. Free iPhone and Android apps are also available, and enable remote access to the system.

Radiant Heat Manifold Actuators

Loop Actuators for Radiant Heat Manifolds are the only way to set up multiple zones on a single manifold. See below a list of the actuators that are compatible with SupplyHouse.com's heating manifolds.

• Uponor TruFLOW: A3020416 two-wire thermal actuator, A3010522 four-wire actuator, or A3020522 motorized actuator + A2630028 adapter

• Uponor EP: A3020416 two-wire thermal actuator + A2671300 adapter, A3010522 four-wire actuator + A2671300 adapter

• Rifeng/Mr. PEX: MA-ACT two-wire actuator or MP700 four-wire actuator

Radiant Heating systems contain at least one loop/circuit, or run of tubing from a supply manifold back to the return. Manifolds can be separated into zones (areas controlled by a dedicated thermostat) with circulator pumps or zones valves. When a project calls for a single manifold containing more than on zone, loop actuators are the only solution. A zone can contain more than one circuit/actuator.

Grease Trap Sizing

SupplyHouse offers a basic grease trap calculator in our Resource Center. It multiplies the volume of sinks by .003 to determine the required GPM of the interceptor, and cuts this number in half for installations with very low levels of grease. Canplas has a more detailed sizing calculator that allows users to enter multiple sinks simultaneously and account for several other factors.

Wilo Check Flanges

Check valves stop the flow of heat to unwanted areas in hydronic heating systems. They can be installed in-line, but circulators with internal flow checks save the hassle and expense of an extra part. While some circulator pump manufacturers place their flow checks inside the circulator, Wilo puts them in flanges. Available at SupplyHouse in 3/4”, 1”, and 1-1/4” sizes, one flange in each set contains a check valve that accomplishes the same task as one installed in the line or in the circulator.

Sale on Grundfos Circulator Pumps

Grundfos is the world’s largest manufacturer of circulator pumps. Their products have been serving heating systems around the world for decades. This week, save on select Grundfos products at SupplyHouse.com with the discount code CIRCPUMP. It’s the perfect way to stock up or bring in a back-up pump for next heating season.

Maximum Radiant Heat Water Temps

In-floor hydronic radiant heat systems, due to their configuration, require relatively low water temperatures to provide comfort and meet setpoint temperatures. These systems heat surfaces rather than air. Depending on a variety of factors, water temperatures anywhere between 70°F and 170°F may be required. "High-temperature" hydronic designs (baseboards, etc.) generally call for water closer to 180°F.

The temperature needed in each room should be accounted for in the design of any radiant heating system. Keep these rules of thumb in mind: do not exceed 150°F water temperatures for any installation, except those in which the tubing hangs in a joist bay. Floor surface temperatures above 87.5°F can cause discomfort and burn bare feet. Wood floors can be damaged if surface temperatures get above 82°F, although this figure may vary by floor manufacturer.

Bradford White Serial Numbers

If you have a Bradford White water heater in your home, it’s easy to determine the age of the unit. Just look at the first two letters in the serial number. The first letter indicates the year of manufacture, as indicated below.

A = 2004
B = 2005
C = 2006
D = 2007
E = 2008
F = 2009
G = 2010
H = 2011
J = 2012
K = 1993
L = 1994
M = 1995
N = 1996
P = 1997
S = 1998
T = 1999
W = 2000
X = 2001
Y = 2002
Z = 2003

The second letter gives the month of manufacture, using A through M for January through December, and skipping the letter I. For more information, including the serial number’s location, visit Bradford White’s website. To purchase a new Bradford White water heater, visit SupplyHouse.com.

Punch & Pull PEX Packaging

Uponor’s Punch & Pull packaging reduces waste material while improving on installation and storage processes for plumbing and heating applications. The plastic film shrink wrap is included with all hePEX and AquaPEX 5/16” to 1” coils in 100, 250, 300, 400, 500, and 1,000 foot lengths. Just “punch” out the center of the packaging, “pull” out the PEX tubing you need, and slide the remaining end back into the center of the coil.

Uponor's WIPEX Fittings

Finding PEX tubing in large sizes is easier than finding the right fittings. While Uponor offers ProPEX fittings in up to 2” sizes, crimp and clamp fittings only go up to 1”. Uponor’s WIPEX fittings offer a solution. These fittings connect to PEX tubing with a compression-type connection, have male threads on the opposite side, and are available in sizes up to 4”. Dezincification-resistant brass makes up these fittings, and allows them to be buried (even in aggressive soil). Visit SupplyHouse.com for more information.

Beacon Morris Hose Kit

Kickspace heaters provide hydronic heating in tight areas where there’s no room for a complete radiator. Perfect for bathrooms and kitchens, kickspace heaters use a blower to fill the room with warmth from the hydronic line. SupplyHouse.com is proud to carry the Beacon Morris line of kickspace heaters.

The flexible hose kit for Beacon Morris kickspace heaters makes installation and maintenance easier. The kit is designed for installations in spaces where it may be difficult to run or solder copper lines. Additionally, the hose gives the unit increased flexibility and access for cleaning and maintenance.

SDR-9 PEX Tubing

All of the PEX tubing sold on SupplyHouse.com meets SDR-9 standards. This “standard dimension ratio” ensures that PEX tubing from different manufacturers has the same outside and inside diameters. Consequently, the same PEX fittings work with any SDR-9 tubing (with the exception of expansion-type fittings, which are only compatible with PEX-A). The dimensions below reflect the standard dimensions for typical sizes of PEX. They are different for PEX-AL-PEX.

• 1/4” - 0.241” ID; 0.375” (3/8”) OD
• 3/8” - 0.350 ID; 0.500 (1/2”) OD
• 1/2” - 0.475” ID; 0.625 (5/8”) OD
• 5/8” - 0.574” ID; 0.750 (3/4”) OD
• 3/4” - 0.671” ID; 0.875” (7/8”) OD
• 1” - 0.862” ID; 1.125” (1-1/8”) OD
• 1-1/4” - 1.054” ID; 1.375 (1-3/8”) OD
• 1-1/2” - 1.244” ID; 1.625 (1-5/8”) OD

Radiant Heat = Lower Temperatures

In-floor radiant heat systems provide warmth in a unique way. While forced air and standard hydronic systems create convection currents to heat the air, radiant heat systems heat objects (floor, furniture, bodies, etc.). As a result, radiant heat systems can achieve the same comfort levels at lower air temperatures (generally 65°F to 68°F) than standard systems that are set at 70°F. Visit SupplyHouse.com for a full selection of radiant heat products.

Honeywell T87 Range Stops

The mechanical current versions of Honeywell’s classic T87 “Round” thermostat come in three configurations: heat only, heat/cool, and large display heat/cool. Each of these models features a range stop option (available separately). The range stop sets a defined temperature range within which the thermostat can be set. It's a simple way to conserve energy and to stop unwanted changes in temperature.

Tools for Large ProPEX Fittings

The M18 ProPEX expansion tool from Milwaukee is perfect for making expansion-type connections with large PEX tubing. Compatible with PEX-A grade tubing and ProPEX fittings, the M18 is the only tool currently manufactured that makes 1-1/4” and 1-1/2” ProPEX connections. The tool works with existing Milwaukee M18 batteries and accessories. If you don’t have an M18 tool, get the tool kit (which includes the tool, batteries, a charger, grease, a carrying case, and heads in 1”, 1-1/4”, and 1-1/2” sizes).

For 2” ProPEX fittings, Uponor only offers one compatible tool.

Advantages of Radiant Heat

Most people know that an in-floor radiant heat system makes floors warm and pleasant to walk on, but these systems offer other advantages that often go unnoticed. These include:

• Quiet operation
• No visible or breakable components in the living space (vents, baseboards, etc.)
• Increased efficiency. Hydronic radiant heat systems can achieve the comfort levels equivalent to those of traditional hydronic systems with lower room air temperatures and lower water temperatures.
• Expedited drying of wet floors (especially crucial near building entryways)

Visit SupplyHouse.com to browse our selection of radiant heat products.

Save on Ball Valves

HydroValve full port ball valves are available at SupplyHouse.com with sweat and threaded connections, in sizes ranging from 1/2” to 4”. Save even more on these affordable valves this month, with special box prices through Friday March 16th.

Eemax Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters provide added efficiency, as no heat is lost or wasted from water sitting in a tank. Electric tankless water heaters provide an added benefit that makes installation easier: they require no exhaust venting. Eemax tankless water heaters are available for a wide-variety of applications. To purchase Eemax products, visit SupplyHouse.com.

Air Eliminator Sizing

Air Eliminators remove air bubbles from hydronic heating systems before they can cause any disturbances. Normally, an air eliminator that matches the size of the supply and return piping will be installed. Most air eliminators, however, should really be sized based on the flow rate of the liquid in the system. 3/4” Spirovent air eliminators can handle up to 6 gallons per minute (GPM). 1” models are compatible with 10 GPM, and 1-1/4” range up to 15 GPM. Requirements differ by manufacturer and water velocity.

PEX Crimp Ring Cutter

SupplyHouse’s CRCUTTER crimp ring removal tool allows you to disconnect 1/2”, 3/4”, and 1” PEX crimp rings and reuse the fitting. To use the tool, first cut the existing fitting out of the line with a PEX tubing cutting tool. Then, insert the smaller barb at the top of tool (the one on the left, if the HydroPEX logo is facing up) into the fitting on the bottom side (where you just made the cut). At this point, you squeeze the tool to cut the ring. You may need to use a screwdriver and needle-nose pliers to finish the job and salvage the fitting so that you can use it again. The knob should be set to '+' for 3/4" and 1" tubing, and '-' for 1/2". This modifies the distance between the blade and the barb.

Tempra vs. Tempra Plus

Stiebel Eltron offers top-of-the-line options for electric tankless water heaters, ranging from single sink to whole house models. The popular Tempra and Tempra Plus models are the same, with a few minor differences. Only Tempra Plus units include a digital temperature display. In addition, Tempra Plus models contain an automatic flow control throttle. This throttle ensures even temperature output at fixtures by reducing water flow through the heater if capacity ratings are exceeded. Visit SupplyHouse.com to find more tankless water heaters.

Place PEX in New Slabs

When building a new home or pouring a concrete slab in any building, you should consider embedding PEX tubing in the concrete. Even if you have no immediate plans to use in-floor radiant heat or install all system components, the pour is a one-time opportunity to get the tubing in for potential future use. Whether you complete the system in subsequent years or simply use the embedded tubing as a selling point to future owners, installing the tubing is at least worth a thought. SupplyHouse offers Radiant Heat Packages, including some designed for embedded slab applications. They include the tubing, manifolds, and tools needed to get the tubing into the slab and pressure test it prior to the pour.

Sign Up for Discount Offers

Sign up for SupplyHouse’s mailing list to receive our monthly e-newsletter and gain exclusive access to discount and promo codes. To join the list, just submit your email address at the bar running across the bottom of SupplyHouse.com. It’s free and you can remove yourself from the list at any time. Additional discounted items can be found on our sale page.

Reuse Brass ProPEX Fittings

It’s easy to remove ProPEX rings from existing fittings if you have access to a heat gun. Disconnecting the plastic ProPEX ring makes it possible to reuse brass ProPEX fittings. Keep in mind, however, that EP ProPEX fittings can only be used once.

To remove the ring, heat one side of it with a heat gun and cut through this portion with a utility knife. Be careful not to cut the tubing, as doing so could damage the fitting. Then work off the ring with pliers, being careful not to burn yourself on the hot part of the ring. After the ring is off, you can use the heat gun to warm the area of the fitting connection with the PEX-A tubing, making it possible to pull the fitting out. When you follow these steps to make new fitting connection, always ensure that the system is depressurized, that you make the new connection after a clean cut at least two inches away from the existing fitting, and that the fitting has been given sufficient time to return to its normal temperature.

Visit www.supplyhouse.com for access to more Uponor ProPEX fittings, tools, and accessories.

Ultra-Fins for Radiant Heat

When installing hydronic radiant heat in a below-floor joist, several options exist. Suspending pipe in the joist with insulation beneath creates convection currents in the joist bay. Aluminum plates allow direct contact and more even heat distribution. Ultra-Fin plates offer another option, which combines these methods. The plates attach to 1/2” tubing, with their louvers creating even convection in the joist. SupplyHouse carries the Ultra-Fin system, along with all the necessary supplies for radiant heat projects.

MANABLOC: 2 or 3 Supply Adapters?

The Viega MANABLOC manifold for “home-run” distribution of PEX lines to individual plumbing fixtures requires 3/4” or 1” supply adapters. Specially designed threaded, crimp, or PEX Press adapters can be used at the single hot and two cold supply ports. Most installations only require two adapters (one for hot and one for cold), as these installations supply cold water to the water heater by branching off the main line. In such situations, the MANABLOC supply port cap should be used to close off the unused port. A third supply adapter is only necessary when a water heater’s cold water supply runs from the MANABLOC to the water heater. Visit SupplyHouse.com to find MANABLOCs, parts, and accessories.

Bacharach HVAC Products

The Bacharach HVAC tools sold at SupplyHouse.com allow you to perform a wide range of tasks on the job. In addition to basic tools, this selection includes carbon monoxide detectors, refrigerant gauges, refrigerant leak detectors, gas leak detectors, draft gauges, and combustion analyzers.

Repair Kinks in PEX-A

PEX manufacturers create PEX-A grade tubing using the “Engel Method,” whereby polyethylene molecules are cross-linked in the liquid state. In addition to making it more flexible and easier to work with, this process makes it possible for users to fix any kinks in PEX that might be created during installation. Only a heat gun is required. Our new video demonstrates this process in action. Buy hePEX and AquaPEX PEX-A tubing at SupplyHouse.com.

Go Green with the Vertex

The A.O. Smith Vertex water heaters offer efficiency levels over 90%, granting them the Energy Star label and making them eligible for 2011 federal tax credits in the United States. This efficiency allows homeowners to save on utility bills and cuts down on exhaust emissions. Since the units are green for the environment and allow users to save some green, A.O. Smith’s recent change in design makes sense: Vertex units now feature green tops rather than yellow ones.

Not only are Vertex units efficient, but these gas-powered, direct vent or power vent units also provide unmatched amounts of hot water. To purchase a Vertex, or any other A.O. Smith water heater, please go to SupplyHouse.com.

Fix Leaks in Your Boiler

Hercules Chemical’s Boiler Liquid fixes small leaks in steam and hot water boilers. Once it’s added to the boiler’s water supply, the liquid seals small leaks and provides at least a temporary solution. A single quart is sufficient for boilers rated up to 360,000 BTUs. Boiler Liquid is only designed for use in hydronic heating systems. Do not use it for potable water plumbing. SupplyHouse.com stocks a wide-range of Hercules products.

The Honeywell "Winter Watchman"

Honeywell’s Winter Watchman provides an easy way to monitor faulty heating equipment. Perfect for when you're away from home or even for a vacation house, the watchman plugs right into a standard wall outlet. You set the unit between 30°F and 60°F (ideally about 10°F less than the thermostat’s setting). Then plug a light into the outlet on the watchman.

If something goes wrong with the heating system, and room temperatures reach the setting on the watchman, the light (which must be left in the ‘on’ position) will turn on. Place the light near a window and find a friendly neighbor who’s willing to glance at the window/light from time to time. Should the light ever go on, there would likely be an issue with the heating system that requires attention to avoid any freeze-ups in the house.