SlabHeat Installation Manual

7
INSPECT CABLE, CONTROL, and SENSOR
CAUTION: Make sure power is not applied to the product until it is fully installed and ready for final testing.
All work must be done with power turned off to the circuit being worked on.
STEP 2.1
Remove the SlabHeat Cable, control, and sensor from their packages. Inspect them for any visible damage and verify everything is
the correct size and type according to your plan and order. Do not attempt to install a damaged product.
STEP 2.2
Record the cable information in Table 4. Give this information to the homeowner to keep in a safe place.
The cable model number, serial number, voltage, and resistance range are shown on a nameplate label attached to the power
leads, as well as the marking "(x)-FOR INDOOR FLOOR HEATING APPLICATIONS". Do not remove this nameplate label. The
electrical inspector will need to see this.
STEP 2.3
Use a digital multi-meter to measure the resistance between the conductors of the cable power leads. Record these resistances in
Table 4 under “Out of the box before installation”.
The resistance between the white lead wires should be within the resistance range on the nameplate label. If it is a little low, it may
be due to low air temperatures or meter calibration. Consult the factory if you are in doubt.
The resistance between either of the white leads and ground lead should be “open”, usually indicated by an “OL” or whatever your
meter shows when the test leads are not touching anything. If there is any change in the reading, record this information and
contact the factory before installing. This could indicate damage, test lead problems, or a number of other issues. Try “pinning” the
test leads to the cable lead wires against a hard non-metal surface if your readings fluctuate.
Measure between the lead wires of the floor sensor. This resistance varies according to the temperature sensed at the tip. Table 3
provides approximate values for comparison.
STEP 2.4
Qualified Electrician Only: It is highly recommended that your electrician perform an insulation resistance test on the cable. A
megohmeter (e.g. Megger®) adjusted to a minimum 1000 VDC should give a measured value at least 20 megohm (M). This test
will expose any minor damage to the cable that is undetectable by a standard multi-meter.
WARNING: Megohmeters apply high voltage and could shock or cause serious injury if improperly used.
Follow megohmeter instructions for safe and proper use.
The LoudMouth
™
monitor
(sold separately) shown
at left will constantly
monitor the heating wire
during the entire installation
process. If the wire is cut or
damaged during installation,
this device sounds an alarm.
The LoudMouth will prevent
burying a damaged wire
below hardened concrete.
Temperature Typical Values
55°F (13°C) 17,000 ohms
65°F (18°C) 13,000 ohms
75°F (24°C) 10,000 ohms
85°F (29°C) 8,000 ohms
Table 3 (floor sensor resistance values)