Multiple zones.

[Nvq level 3]

Hi,
Im sure this question isn't a new one but im having to add another zone for an extension. There is currently 4 zones in total 1 for the cylinder and 3 for heating . My question is, is there a limit for the (electrical side) for how many zones you can have? as far as im aware there isnt but is there a certain programmer needed or anything else that may be required?

Thanks.

 

[doitmyself]

There's no limit, electrically, to the number of zones you can have.

However, you may need more than one programmer as the largest prog I know has room for only four zones. Alternatively you could use a separate prog or prog-stat for each zone.

If there are separate pumps for each zone you may need to use relays to prevent back-feed between pumps.

Getting the return connections right is important, otherwise you will get reverse circulation.

 

[Nvq level 3]

Thanks. There's only 1 pump as it's a system boiler. This house sounds big but know where near as you may think. Me personally I would just of upstairs separate to down. I will have to run a seperate circuit across the landing as I'll have to put drops in then bring the return back towards the boiler where the others are tagged in. I'm not wiring this up thankfully but nice to have a bit more knowledge on it.

 

[Ermintrude]

Be fine as long as pipe work from boiler to pump and manifold is big enough - 22mm might need to be 28mm? An bigger pump?

 

[gasmanrob]

I'd also be upgrading some wiring there to be honest. A lot of systems only ever used 0.75mm cable to feed power and programmer 4 zones calling in peak winter might put a strain on it. Perhaps when the time comes check with the installer as to the cable size

 

[Nvq level 3]

will mention the wiring size to the electrician. There's currently a 30kw system boiler in place its defiantly over sized for the current system but I'm guessing this was done for this possible reason of the extension etc. Never added an extra pump to a system boiler? how would you go about this with your zone valves all being fairly close to the system boiler?

 

[Ermintrude]

Three ways - cheap LLH (100mm box section )

Swap pump in boiler - if it's like a keston (pump valves)

Bypass pump and fit it externally.

 

[Nvq level 3]

Sorry to say its a worcester system boiler! Ill try upload a photo when I can figure it out.