Chapter 5.4.4 - Installation Documentation

Documentation, including photographs, is especially important for ensuring consistent
operation of radiant hydronic systems over the long expected operating life.The
complexity of supply and conduit routing and radiant panel design make service
diagnosis without the aid of a complete scale plan difficult, time-consuming, and
more costly. A complete explanation of the original design conditions on which
overall system design was based is just as important as the layout, actual equipment,
panel sizing, and electrical schematic. (See Fig. 4.4.)

Examples of documentation categories recommended by the Radiant Panel
Association (RPA) include the following:

1. Piping schematic of entire system
2. Electrical control schematic
3. Scaled floor plans showing placement of heat emitters and pipe
4. Description of system operation
5. Component data sheets manual
6. Photographs and/or videotape of as-built installation
7. Service record

The documentation should include detail of all final control settings after the
installation is up and running in line with design performance. Finally, the information
should include complete parts-listing information required for maintenance,
purchase, repair, and replacement, as well as warranty terms of compliance, schedule
of maintenance, and duration from date of commencement. The supply source
and manufacturer detail forms should include name, address, and telephone number,
as well as provision for a complete record of service performed and parts
replaced.