Do you need oxygen barrier pex for in floor radiant heat?

Yes. Oxygen barrier PEX tubing is required for radiant floor heating systems because it prevents the oxygen in the air from diffusing into the water circulating in the system. Oxygen can cause corrosion of the metal components in the system, such as the boiler and heat exchanger, which can lead to premature failure of the system.

Oxygen barrier PEX tubing is made with a special type of polyethylene plastic that has a very low oxygen permeability. This means that it is very difficult for oxygen to pass through the tubing walls. As a result, oxygen barrier PEX tubing helps to protect the metal components in radiant floor heating systems from corrosion.

Installing the tubing with an oxygen barrier is a crucial part of floor heating to prevent corrosion and system damage.