Return Bends and Sleepers
Sleepers
Sleepers are plywood or foam strips placed between ThermoFin U runs to bring the entire surface up to the same height. They can be used above or below the ThermoFin U, depending on the application.
In the most common application, the tubing and ThermoFin are placed over the floor first, and the Sleepers are added on top. This provides a flat, level surface that is optimized for installing the finished floor.
Another option is to lay the sleepers down first, with spaces between the strips. The ThermoFin channel is placed in the gaps with the opening facing up. This method results in faster heat transfer because the plates are closer to the surface of the floor. However, there is a height difference between the plates and the sleepers, which is a problem for some finished flooring materials
Recommended Sleeper Dimensions:
Use 3/4" MDO or AC Plywood
8" On Center Spacing, Sleeper width is 7.25" and gap width is 0.75"
For 6" On Center Spacing, Sleeper width is 5.25" and gap width is 0.75"
Return Bends
Precut return bend sleepers for the 180 turns at the end of tubing runs can speed up the installation process. The bends are sold in 8 foot strips with the correct spacing for 8" or 6" on center runs. Lay them down along the edges of the room and use them as a guide for the tubing.
|
8" On Center Spacing |
6" On Center Spacing |
# Bends per 8' Strip |
6 |
8 |
Thickness |
3/4" |
3/4" |
Width |
8" |
6" |
Length of each Bend |
16" |
12" |
Weight |
1.67 pounds |
0.9375 pounds |
Price per Bend |
$5.75 |
$5.01 |
