# SunTouch Mats Specifications and Installation Procedure ## SECTION 1 - OVERVIEW, SPECIFICATIONS & ELECTRICAL PREPARATION ```html
SunTouch Mats Specifications and Installation Procedure
SunTouch radiant floor heating mats provide efficient electric floor warming for tile, stone, and masonry flooring installations in residential and light commercial applications.
This installation guide covers SunTouch mat specifications, electrical requirements, floor preparation, thermostat installation, resistance testing, and proper installation procedures for heated floor systems.
The SunTouch Heating Mat
The heating wire is woven into a durable orange mesh mat available in 1 ft., 2 ft., and 3 ft. widths for both 120V and 240V systems.
Mat sizes range from 10 sq. ft. to 160 sq. ft. depending on voltage and configuration.
Multiple mats may be connected in parallel for larger heated floor installations. All mats connected together must operate on the same voltage.
Example Layout Options:
- Two 1 ft. x 40 ft. mats
- One 2 ft. x 20 ft. mat combined with one 1 ft. x 40 ft. mat
Important: Never combine 120V and 240V heating mats within the same heating circuit.
Read Before Installing SunTouch
- Never install under carpet, vinyl, or wood flooring without proper mortar encapsulation
- Never cut or shorten the heating wire
- Never overlap heating mats
- Never install mats inside walls
- Never install mats beneath cabinets, vanities, or built-in fixtures
- Always fully embed heating wire in approved mortar materials
- Always record resistance readings before, during, and after installation
- Always follow NEC and local electrical codes
- Always use copper conductors only
- Always seek qualified professional assistance when needed
Mat and Sensor Resistance Log
Record all resistance readings during installation to maintain warranty coverage.
| Measurement Stage | Required Readings |
| Before Installation | Black to White, Black to Green, White to Green, Sensor Wire |
| After Mat is Fastened | Black to White, Black to Green, White to Green, Sensor Wire |
| After Flooring Installation | Black to White, Black to Green, White to Green, Sensor Wire |
Retain all resistance logs for warranty purposes.
Checking for Breaks and Short Circuits
Checking for breaks:
- Measure resistance between black and white leads
- Readings should match the nameplate specifications
- Infinite resistance indicates an open line or wire break
Checking for short circuits:
- Measure resistance between black and green leads
- Readings should indicate infinite resistance
- Any measurable resistance may indicate wire damage
120 Volt Mat Amperage Requirements
| Mat Size | Coverage | Amp Draw |
| 1 ft. x 10 ft. | 10 sq. ft. | 1.0 |
| 1 ft. x 20 ft. | 20 sq. ft. | 2.0 |
| 2 ft. x 20 ft. | 40 sq. ft. | 4.0 |
| 2 ft. x 40 ft. | 80 sq. ft. | 8.0 |
| 3 ft. x 15 ft. | 45 sq. ft. | 4.5 |
240 Volt Mat Amperage Requirements
| Mat Size | Coverage | Amp Draw |
| 2 ft. x 10 ft. | 20 sq. ft. | 1.0 |
| 2 ft. x 40 ft. | 80 sq. ft. | 4.0 |
| 2 ft. x 80 ft. | 160 sq. ft. | 8.0 |
| 3 ft. x 20 ft. | 60 sq. ft. | 3.0 |
| 3 ft. x 40 ft. | 120 sq. ft. | 6.0 |
## SECTION 2 - MAT INSTALLATION, FLOORING & FINAL WIRING
Phase 2: SunTouch Mat Installation Procedures
Approved installation methods include:
- Thin-set mortar over framed floor systems
- Thin-set mortar over concrete slab
- Thick-set mortar over metal lath
- Self-leveling mortar systems
Step 2.2: Floor Preparation
Subfloors must be clean, dry, structurally sound, and free of debris before installation begins.
Step 2.3: Review the Layout Plan
Carefully study the mat layout before installation. Never cut or shorten the heating wire.
Step 2.4: Mortar Applications
SunTouch heating mats may be installed using thin-set mortar, thick-set mortar, or self-leveling mortar systems.
For laminate or engineered wood floor applications, self-leveling mortar installations are typically recommended.
Step 2.8: Thermostat Sensor Installation
The floor sensor should be positioned between heating wires approximately 6 to 12 inches into the heated floor area.
Avoid placing sensors near heating ducts or other external heat sources.
Step 2.9: Mat Turns and Fill-In Techniques
The orange mesh backing may be cut and rotated around corners and obstacles while keeping the heating wire intact.
Phase 3: Final Floor Installation
Continue resistance testing throughout the floor installation process.
- Use latex-modified or epoxy-modified mortars
- Recommended trowel size: 3/8 inch x 1/4 inch
- Never strike the heating wire with a trowel
- Prevent nails or screws from penetrating heated floor areas
Phase 4: Final Wiring
Step 4.1: Install the Controls
Install the thermostat according to manufacturer instructions and connect all heating mats in parallel.
- 120V systems: black-black, white-white, green-green
- 240V systems: black-black, blue-blue, green-green
All electrical wiring must comply with NEC and local code requirements.
Shop SunTouch Floor Heating Products
- Shop SunTouch Heating Mats
- Shop SunTouch Heating Cables
- Shop SunTouch Thermostats & Accessories
- Shop Snow Melting Systems
Helpful Installation and Product Resources
- SunTouch How-To Videos
- SunTouch Installation Guide
- How to Repair Damaged Heating Wire
- EMF and Electromagnetic Field Information
- SunTouch Warranty Information
- SunTouch Installation FAQ
Important: We strongly recommend installation by a qualified electrician and professional tile contractor. Always follow TCNA, ANSI, NEC, and manufacturer installation guidelines.