1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Etherma 132-DS5-660 Dipole Heating Mat. This factory-made heating mat is designed for efficient floor heating, supplementary room heating, or for insulating against cold on walls. Its ultra-thin construction, measuring only 2.7 mm, allows for minimal floor buildup height. The self-adhesive mesh and dipole finish ensure straightforward installation and operation with minimal magnetic fields. Adherence to these instructions is crucial for safe and optimal performance of your heating mat.
2. Safety Information
Please read all safety warnings and instructions carefully before installing or operating the heating mat. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
- Electrical Installation: All electrical work must be performed by a qualified electrician in accordance with local and national electrical codes.
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): The heating mat must be connected to a circuit protected by a 30 mA GFCI.
- Damage Inspection: Inspect the heating mat for any damage before installation. Do not install a damaged mat.
- Overlapping: Never overlap heating cables or mats. This can lead to overheating and fire hazards.
- Cutting: Do not cut or shorten the heating cable. The mesh can be cut, but not the heating cable itself.
- Temperature Limits: The nominal temperature of the heating mat is 90 °C. Ensure proper temperature control with a suitable thermostat.
- Water Protection: The product has an IPX7 protection class, meaning it is protected against temporary immersion in water. However, ensure all electrical connections are properly sealed and protected from moisture.
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is key to the efficient and safe operation of your Etherma heating mat. Follow these steps carefully.
3.1. Preparation
- Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level.
- Plan the layout of the heating mat to cover the desired area, avoiding permanent fixtures like cabinets or toilets.
- Measure the area to be heated and confirm it matches the mat's dimensions (50 cm x 660 cm).
- Install a suitable thermostat and floor sensor according to the thermostat manufacturer's instructions. The floor sensor should be placed between two heating cables.
3.2. Mat Installation
Figure 1: Etherma Dipole Heating Mat unrolled, showing the heating cables on the mesh and the cold lead connection cable.
- Begin unrolling the self-adhesive heating mat onto the prepared subfloor. The self-adhesive backing will help secure it in place.
- When reaching a wall or obstacle, cut the mesh (do not cut the heating cable!) and turn the mat to continue laying in the opposite direction.
- Ensure the heating cables are evenly spaced and do not overlap. The mesh grid is 12 x 12 mm.
- Route the 4-meter connection cable (cold lead) to the thermostat connection box. Ensure the connection cable is not damaged during installation.
- Once the mat is fully laid, perform an electrical resistance test to ensure the heating cable is intact before applying floor covering.
Figure 2: Example of the Etherma Heating Mat installed on a subfloor in a bathroom, ready for the final floor covering.
- Apply a suitable flexible tile adhesive or self-leveling compound over the heating mat, ensuring full encapsulation of the heating cables. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the chosen floor covering material.
4. Operating Instructions
The Etherma heating mat operates in conjunction with a compatible thermostat. Refer to your thermostat's user manual for specific programming and operation details.
- Initial Power-Up: After installation and curing of the floor covering, power on the circuit at the main breaker.
- Thermostat Control: Use the thermostat to set the desired floor or ambient temperature. The thermostat will regulate the heating mat's operation to maintain the set temperature.
- Warm-Up Period: Allow sufficient time for the floor to reach the desired temperature, especially during initial use or after long periods of inactivity.
- Energy Efficiency: Consider programming your thermostat to operate during off-peak hours or to reduce temperature settings when the area is unoccupied to optimize energy consumption.
5. Maintenance
The Etherma heating mat is designed for maintenance-free operation once installed. However, general care of your floor covering is recommended.
- Floor Care: Maintain your floor covering according to its manufacturer's recommendations.
- Heavy Objects: Avoid placing heavy objects directly on the heated floor that could impede heat dissipation or damage the heating system.
- Electrical Checks: Periodically check the GFCI for proper function as recommended by its manufacturer.
6. Troubleshooting
If your heating mat is not functioning as expected, review the following common issues before contacting a professional.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Mat not heating | No power to the circuit; Thermostat off or set too low; GFCI tripped; Damaged heating cable. | Check circuit breaker; Adjust thermostat settings; Reset GFCI; If cable damage is suspected, consult a qualified electrician. |
| Uneven heating | Improper installation (e.g., cable overlap); Air pockets in adhesive. | Ensure proper installation during initial setup. This issue is difficult to correct post-installation. |
| GFCI trips frequently | Moisture in connections; Damaged heating cable; Faulty GFCI. | Immediately disconnect power. Consult a qualified electrician to diagnose and repair. |
For issues not listed here or if troubleshooting steps do not resolve the problem, contact a qualified electrician or Etherma customer support.
7. Specifications
- Model: 132-DS5-660
- Product Number: 34192
- Dimensions: 50 cm x 660 cm
- Power Output: 430 W
- Voltage: 230 V
- Heating Conductor Type: Dipole
- Nominal Temperature: 90 °C
- System Construction: According to VDE 0700
- Heating Conductor Thickness: 2.7 mm
- Protection Class: IPX7
- Mesh Grid: 12 x 12 mm, self-adhesive
- Connection Cable (Cold Lead): 4 m, 2 x 1.0 mm²
- Safety Measures: Requires 30 mA GFCI protection circuit
- Certifications: CE compliant, VDE test mark
- Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 56 x 24 x 9 cm (packaged)
- Weight: 1.9 kg (packaged)
8. Warranty and Support
Information regarding specific warranty terms for the Etherma 132-DS5-660 heating mat is not available in this document. Please refer to your purchase documentation or contact your retailer for warranty details.
For technical support or further inquiries, please contact Etherma customer service or visit the official Etherma website. Ensure you have your product model number (34192) and purchase details available when seeking support.
