Filling and purging a closed-loop hydronic system is an essential process to remove air and ensure proper water circulation within the system. This ensures your Messana Ray Magic ceiling panels are working properly.
This should only be done after the pressure test (see the link How to properly pressure test the Messana Ray Magic panels) is completed and any possible leaks have been fixed.
A typical filling of a hydronic closed-loop system is done using a mixture of water and Glycol, (explained in the link about Why is Glycol recommended in a Hydronic system?) in various percentages.
Purging hydronic systems is important for several reasons:
System Efficiency: Air bubbles in the hydronic system act as insulators, reducing the system’s overall efficiency.
Noisy operation: As air bubbles move through the system, they may pass through heating elements causing popping or clicking noises.
Maintaining Proper Pressure: Adequate water pressure is crucial for a hydronic system to function correctly. Air pockets reduce the water volume in the system, leading to lower pressure levels.
Comfort and Performance: Air pockets can cause cold spots in the heating distribution, leading to discomfort for occupants and inefficient heating.
Tips:
- When installing radiant ceiling panels vertically or at an incline on a vaulted ceiling, we strongly recommend connecting the supply and return lines to the top of the panels to prevent the formation of air pockets that are challenging to remove.
- Placing the manifold with air vent in the attic at the highest point can also aid in purging air from the system.