DITRA HEAT Cable Spacing & Best Practice

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What ditra heat cable spacing

For both 120-volt and 240-volt applications, the standard spacing between cable runs is THREE studs or 3-5/8 inches. However, in isolated areas or throughout the entire floor, cable spacing can be continuously alternated between 3 studs and 2 studs. This variation may be preferred to increase heat output or utilize more cable length in a specific area. It’s important to note that narrower spacing can cause overheating and damage to building structures, while wider spacing may result in inconsistent floor surface temperatures.
 
Use heating area estimator tool from Schluter Systems here.
Remember:
Heating cable testing is required while the heating cable is on the spool and at two subsequent steps during installation to ensure cable quality and for warranty purposes. 
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Best Practice For DITRA Heat Cable Installation

It is crucial to ensure that the heating cable does not touch or overlap itself or any other heating cable. If encountering difficulties, simply remove and reapply the cable in a different pattern.

Continue the installation of the heating cable while maintaining the required spacing between the cable and the marked fixture locations on the floor.

Under no circumstances should the heating cable be modified or cut to fit the space, as this would alter the cable resistance and could pose a fire hazard.

Verify that the heating cable is embedded between studs in the membrane along its entire length. The installation of the heating cable is now complete.

Repeat the three heating cable tests to confirm that the cable was not damaged during the installation process.

* Please consult the DITRA-HEAT Installation Handbook for the necessary spacing requirements for 208-volt applications. To embed the cables in the matting, using a roller can be beneficial.

  • Avoid buying a heating cable that matches the exact size of the tiled area to prevent excess cable.
  • It is crucial to never cut or alter the heating cable in any manner. This ensures that the cable resistance remains unchanged, prevents damage, and eliminates the risk of cable overheating.
  • The standard cable spacing is 3 studs.
  • In isolated areas or across the entire floor, the cable can be spaced at continuously alternating intervals of 3 studs and 2 studs.
  • It is not recommended to have a cable spacing of 4 studs as it can lead to inconsistent floor surface temperatures.
  • Maintain a minimum spacing of 2 inches (50 mm) from walls, partitions, and fixed cabinets.
  • Ensure a minimum spacing of 8 inches (200 mm) from other heat sources such as baseboard heaters, fireplaces, and other fixed heating devices.
  • Maintain a minimum spacing of 4 inches (100 mm) from plumbing drains and forced air heating ducts.
  • Maintain a minimum spacing of 7 inches (180 mm) from the centerline of toilet drains.
  • Avoid installing the heating cable beneath vanities with no air space beneath, bathtub platforms, free-standing bathtubs without air space beneath, kitchen cabinets and islands, or any other fixtures in storage or clothing closets. These confined spaces can lead to excessive heat buildup and potential cable overheating.
  • Never install the heating cable under or through walls, partitions, or floors.

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