Hydronic heating is a type of heating system that uses hot water for home heating. It is considered to be an economical home heating solution. Airworks Inc. shares a closer look at how it works and the conditions that make it an ideal heating system.
How Hydronic Heating Works
A hydronic system starts at the furnace or boiler, where the water is heated. The hot water is then distributed throughout the house using a specially designed pumping system with insulated pipes. Then the hot water passes through radiators, which provide heating. The cooled-down water goes back into the boiler, where the cycle begins anew. The same hot water can be tapped for bathing and other uses when needed. The furnace or boiler then heats a fresh batch of water to allow circulation.
Various components control factors such as water pressure and temperature, in order to avoid the effects of increased pressure such as water hammering. Insulation along the pipes helps ensure the heat is released – or more accurately, radiated – at the radiators. Unlike heat pumps and similar electric heating and air conditioning systems, hydronic heating works with traditional fuel-based furnaces. It lets you have heating throughout your home in the event of a power outage.
Types of Hydronic Heating Systems
We’ve discussed the most common kind of hydronic system, which heats your home through radiators. A similar system uses steam or hot air. However, this requires a different type of pump to allow heat to be evenly distributed. These systems can be fitted with existing boilers and furnaces. Another type of hydronic system distributes hot air, generated by hot water, through vents.
Radiant heat can also be distributed using subfloor systems. A network of pipes is distributed under the floorboards, which keeps the floor warm. This system works exceptionally well in small homes, where radiators can take a lot of space. It is also ideal for single-story homes, as the rising heat may not be enough for the upper stories. Unlike hydronic systems with radiators, subfloor systems may require more installation work.
To learn more about hydronic heating systems, or our other services including heating repair, call Airworks Inc. today at (406) 630-4170. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a free estimate. We serve areas in Whitefish and Kalispell, MT.
