Radiant Floor Company Logo
leftcorner rightcorner

The "Extras" Bag

Every multi-zone system comes with a small bag of parts we call the "extras" bag. These components (see photos below) are an important part of the Zone Manifold, but are not INSTALLED into the Manifold when you receive it. That's because every installation is unique and only the installer knows whether to enter the manifold from the right side, or the left side.

Below are a series of close-up photos, detailing the parts from the "extras" bag.

FIP Tee This fittings is called a FIP tee. The Zone Manifold uses several FIP's, all the 1 1/4" size, and various gauges and valves are installed into the 1/2" female threads at the top of the fitting.
FIP Tee with temp gauge A temperature gauge assembly threads into a FIP tee.
FIP tee with temp gauge Of course, in an actual installation, teflon tape would be used to seal the threads of the pressure gauge and the brass adaptor it threads into.
Pressure Relief Valve The pressure relief valve also threads into a FIP tee. Notice the brass cap at the top of the pressure relief valve. By removing this cap, the relief valve can be adjusted higher or lower. We pre-set the valve to "blow off" at 55-60 psi. This is ideal for most installations. The copper elbow attached to the relief valve directs any over-pressurized water safely down toward the floor.
Drain Valve Two drain valves like the one shown at left are included in the "extras" bag. On both the supply side and the return side of the manifold, they are threaded into whichever FIP tee is opposite the temperature gauge. In this manner, the Zone Manifold can be drained if necessary.
Bell Hanger "Bell hangers" like the one shown here are used to attach the main body of the Zone Manifold to the pre-cut plywood board.
Split Ring Hanger Another mounting assembly called a "split ring hanger". They are used to "collar" the pipe below each circulator pump.
Temp End Caps Permanent End Cap
The temporary test caps shown on the left should never be confused with the permanent end cap shown on the right.

The Zone Manifold is shipped with two temporary endcaps called "test caps". These are installed in our shop to pressure test the manifold for leaks and are left on to prevent debris from entering the manifold during shipping and handling. The "test caps" must be removed before any plumbing can begin on the Zone Manifold.

The cap on the right (above) is designed to become a permanent part of the installation. If you enter the left side of the Zone Manifold, cap the right side, and vice versa.

Zone manifold for stainless pumps

The Zone Manifold for Stainless pumps, complete with "extras".

Note: as mentioned above, the two "loose" FIP tees can be installed on either end of the manifold. Which end depends upon how the manifold is oriented to the heat source.

Zone manifold for cast iron pumps

The Zone Manifold for Cast Iron pumps, along with "extras".

Note: Because the pressure relief valve and pressure gauge are part of the Expansion and Purge Kit (always included with any cast iron manifold), the two "loose" FIP tees are not needed.