Types Of Hydronic Heating
Hydronic heating is the most effective as well as pleasant way of heating homes. The mechanism works by heating water with fuel such as natural gas, LPG or solid fuel fire boiler and then recirculating the water through tubes fitted behind walls and floors. The heat circulating in the tubes will reach the rooms through the process of radiation. It renders you gentle and hygienic warmth. The system works in the same way as our mother nature. Nature heats by convection and radiation as so does the hydronic heater. It does not make air dry with burning and will not cause unpleasant draughts, hot spots or noise. These systems do not have forced air mechanism as a result will not invite dust and allergies. The radiator panels that are used in the system are safe to touch with mild temperatures. They are safe for pets, elder lies, and children. These are noiseless units. Having minimal moving parts they do not need much maintenance. Cutting edge boilers used in these heaters can have 80% – 95% efficiency.
To install a hydronic system in your residence, you will need to install some basic equipment. First is the boiler which is used to heat the liquid. A liquid medium is required which will be heated and thereby radiate heat. This is generally water or a mixture of water and anti-freezing solution. A thermostat is needed to sample room air and therefore generate adequate heat. The plumbing manifold directs water flow and control room temperatures. Tubes are essential parts of hydronic system to allow movement of water. These are generally made of plastic or rarely copper or rigid piping is used. The device needs a heat exchanger that is installed in form of radiator, baseboard heater, or in floor element that transfers the heat into the home. A pump is needed to keep the liquid in circulation.
Choices of Boilers
The boiler is a cornerstone of a hydronic system. A good one will ensure little energy or heat loss. It is this equipment that will heat the water for generating warmth. In addition to the standard boiler for radiant heating systems, there are a few different boiler options. They are tank less hydronic water heaters, combined hot water, solar water heater,and heating system boiler.
Options in Liquid
The liquid that is heated to radiate heat was traditionally water. Modern systems are incorporating other liquids to heat the house. Glycol is a commonly used antifreeze solution that is added to water in a closed loop system. In case you pipe runs through an exposed area then adding an anti-freezing solution will prevent the water from freezing. It will also increase the water’s boiling point. The need to use an anti-freezing solution will depend on your heating needs as well as system design.
Varieties in Heating Exchangers
Underfloor Radiant Loops – Radiant flooring is suitable option if your home is being newly constructed. These can be easily added to the concrete or floor joist system. It can provide consistent and uniform heating throughout the home.
Baseboard Radiators – These can be located along the walls when remodeling the house. These require less tubing. Always ensure they are not being blocked by furnishings. The heat should be able to radiate out.
Hydro-air heating- In these systems you need a duct work and an air handler. Hot water is pumped to a heat exchanger located in each air handler. The hot water heats the air which is then blown through the ducts to heat rooms. They are more affordable than hydronic radiant floor heating. The ducts that you lay out for radiant heating and can also be used by your AC when needed.