A guide to which pipe to use for water underfloor heating

The right pipes are the heart of any water underfloor heating system, so we’re very particular about the ones we supply. At Snug, we believe PEX and AL-PEX pipes bring a whole range of real advantages, here’s why…

Why use PEX & AL-PEX rather than PERT & AL-PERT pipes?

• They make life easier for installers because they’re lightweight and more flexible than PERT & AL-PERT.
• PEX & AL-PEX pipes can withstand up to 95ºC, while PERT can only withstand 60ºC. Water underfloor systems reach 65ºC if their mixing valves are turned right up, so choosing PEX or AL-PEX gives you peace of mind that your system will keep going strong, even at capacity.
• Unlike PERT & Al-PERT, PEX & AL-PEX doesn’t need reaming if you use a pipe cutter, saving valuable time.

But what’s the difference between PEX & AL-PEX?

The key difference between PEX & AL-PEX pipe is that AL-PEX is WRAS approved, meaning that you can use the same pipe through-out your home or project, including pipe for potable (drinking) water, leading to a more efficient project, as any excess piping can be used elsewhere in a project.

We understand that each project is unique and requires components relative to your needs. Whilst we recommend using PEX & AL-PEX over PERT & AL-PERT, there are different benefits of each which may be advantageous to your job:

      

PEX Pipe

What are the benefits of PEX pipe?

• They’re more flexible and easier to work with than PERTand can bend toa radius of 75mm, so they fit any of our systems.
• They’re easy to fit into boards, plates and supports.
• They can be used in any kind of room.
• They come in two sizes: 12 x 2mm and 16 x 2mm.
• They’re available in lengths of between 75m and 500m, ideal for bigger projects.
• They’re strong and resilient, working between -44ºC and 95ºC at 10 bar of pressure.
• They’re made from five-layer cross-linked polyethylene, which has an EVOH oxygen barrier to stop oxygen entering the system, maximising the lifespan of the pipes.

AL-PEX Pipe

What are the benefits AL-PEX pipe?

• They’re very flexible and easy to work with.
• They come in a versatile 16mm x 2mm size.
• They’re made from five-layer cross-linked polyethylene, with a strong aluminium core to hold its shape once bent, making it ideal for single person installation.
• They’re strong and resilient, working between -44ºC and 95ºC at 10 bar of pressure.
• As discussed above, AL-PEX pipe is WRAS approved and can be used for potable water.

What’s unique about the Snug system?

We give you extra peace of mind, with a full 10 year pipe warranty. As well as covering the cost of replacing any faulty parts, it also covers the cost of any damage caused to the home by manufacturing defects.

The Snug Underfloor Heating Technical Support Team are always happy to help and advise the best pipe to use for your project requirements, simply call us on 01772 761333 or email sales@firsttracce.co.uk