4 Things to Know About Hydronic Heating Systems
If you want to change your home's heating and cooling system, then hydronic solutions are worth a look. Read on to learn some useful facts about hydronic systems.
1. Hydronic Systems Can Be Retrofitted
Some people assume that you can only fit hydronic heating systems in a new build or during a home renovation project. These systems are often used for underfloor heating, so you might think that this project will be too invasive if you simply want to switch to a new system.
However, this is not necessarily the case. You can retrofit underfloor heating and cooling systems if you wish. Or, for a simpler solution, you can install a hydronic system in other ways. For example, you can set these systems up to work through wall-panel radiators or through ceiling units rather than putting them in floors.
2. Hydronic Systems Can Heat or Cool Your Home
When people think about hydronic systems, they sometimes assume that these systems are all about heating a home. However, you can install dual-purpose systems that also cool.
Hydronic technology uses water to create heat. A system heats water and then carries it through pipes. If you have underfloor heating, then the pipes heat rooms from the floor up. If you have radiator units, then the warmed water heats the radiators which then pass heat into a room.
This technology can also be used to cool a home. Here, your system simply runs cold water through its pipes instead of hot. This water reduces ambient temperatures at floor level or around vents, grilles or radiators to provide a cooling effect.
3. Hydronic Systems Can Use Various Heat Sources
While you might decide to set up a new heat source when you install a hydronic system, you might also be able to use your existing system. For example, hydronic systems can run from heat pumps, boilers and water heaters. You can even run these systems on solar power in some areas.
4. Hydronic Systems Are Better For Your Health
Some heating and cooling systems affect indoor air quality. For example, some air conditioning units and vented heating systems can spread dust particles around your home. This can be problem if you suffer from allergies or conditions that affect your breathing.
Hydronic systems don't affect your indoor air quality. They don't create or spread dust and they don't use refrigerant chemicals. They are a healthy solution.
To find out more, contact local home heating and cooling contractors. They can help you decide if a hydronic system is the right solution for your home.