Hydronic Heating Systems
Hydronics is the use of a liquid heat-transfer medium in heating and cooling systems. The working fluid is typically water, glycol, or mineral oil. Some of the oldest and most common examples are steam and hot-water radiators.
The cornerstone of any hydronic heating system is an energy efficient boiler that heats the liquid with little to no heat loss or wasted energy. There are a few different types of boilers, as well as various components that work alongside the boiler itself.
Types of hydronic heating
Today's hydronic heating is an energy efficient home heating system that uses tubing to run a hot liquid beneath the floor, along baseboard heaters, or through radiators to heat your home. Also referred to as radiant heating, this type of system has become popular among families that want added comfort and control in their heating zones, savings through lower heating bills and a decrease in their environmental impact by making smart green building choices.
Tankless hydronic water heaters are much smaller than the traditional tankless water heaters. These heaters are specifically designed to allow on-demand, energy efficient hot water for heat.
Solar water heaters can work in tandem with your boiler to increase the energy efficiency of the system. A panel on the roof heats a liquid that runs through tubes inside a water storage tank. This creates water that is naturally preheated and requires less energy from the boiler to bring it to the right temperature.
Geothermal heat pumps are similar to solar water heaters. They preheat the water by using the natural warmth found several feet below the soil. This reduces the amount of natural gas, electricity or oil that your boiler will need to heat the water.
Liquid options:
Traditionally, hydronic heat consists of hot water as the method of transferring heat. Glycol is a common antifreeze that is added to a closed loop system. This can help prevent the water from freezing if the pipes run through an exposed area, as well as increase the waters boiling point. The need for antifreeze or other liquids other than water are designed around your specific heating needs, and vary from home to home.
Interested in hydronic heating?
Whether you are trying to add a super energy efficient radiant floor system to a new custom home, or maximizing the space you have in a home remodel with tankless hydronic hot water units and radiators, there is a hydronic heating plan that can work for you. Call Solaire Home Comfort today to schedule a free estimate.