Central heating/water zones/flow/return

[RockyBalboa]

Can someone more in the know explain to me how central heating/hot water zones work?

I would like 3 zones (basement and ground, first floor, second floor), does this mean I will need 3 sets of flow and return pipework (i.e. 6 pipes) - 1 set to each floor? How many zones valves?

[moles]

No you have 1 flow which then splits into 3 flows. You have a zone valve on each of the 3 flows which is controlled by its own independent timer/temperature control. Each of the pipes then goes around its route and back into a single return that goes to the boiler.

http://www.diynot.com/diy/threads/your-opinions-on...

Edited by moles on Friday 30th December 17:07

[RockyBalboa]

moles said:

No you have 1 flow which then splits into 3 flows. You have a zone valve on each of the 3 flows which is controlled by its own independent timer/temperature control. Each of the pipes then goes around its route and back into a single return that goes to the boiler.

http://www.diynot.com/diy/threads/your-opinions-on...

Edited by moles on Friday 30th December 17:07

Does having independent flow and returns (which merge near the boiler) rather than 1 flow which splits into 3 flows, result in quicker heat times but cost more in terms of installation?

[moles]

No will make no difference in a domestic environment.

[jason61c]

RockyBalboa said:

Does having independent flow and returns (which merge near the boiler) rather than 1 flow which splits into 3 flows, result in quicker heat times but cost more in terms of installation?

Its the way europeans do it, using blending valves/mixer valves. It is more efficient looking at the tests they did, also the fact that its colder in Norway etc should show its the best way.