With winters becoming chillier, a good heating system is the need of the hour. It would keep your home warm and comfortable. It would also help you work whenever you need to, without having to wait for the Sun. There are several options for heating systems available in the market. Want something simple and effective? One great option to install in your home is hydronic heating.
What exactly is it?
The word hydronic comes from the word “hydro”, meaning water. Thus, this system uses water to convey heat from the source to the sink. In this case, the source would be the heat source, for example, a boiler. On the other hand, the sink is the room that needs to be warmed up.
How does it work?
Hydronic heating generally uses gas boilers to heat water. Gas boilers are effective and energy efficient. They utilize different types of fuels like gas, wood, and electricity. Once the water becomes hot, it moves through radiators and pipes. These pipes are sealed to prevent any leakage.
When the heated water reaches radiators, it emits heat into the air. On the contrary, if the system is installed on the floor, the water is distributed around coils. These coils are employed to increase surface area, which in turn ensures that maximum heat is transferred in the best way. The water then heats the entire surface. Additionally, you can customize this system to meet your needs.
Advantages of Hydronic heating
With its unique and innovative technology, this method of heating offers many advantages:
Energy Efficient
When it comes to appliances, an important test they must pass is their efficiency level. While 100% efficiency is practically impossible for any system, this heating method is highly energy efficient. This is because it transfers heat via radiation. Thus, it reduces temperature stratification in the air of your room and reduces heat loss. Moreover, the mode of heat transfer, that is, radiation makes you feel comfortable even at lower room temperatures.
Heats floors
No more icy floors! You can install the system to heat your floor. It is helpful for people who like to walk barefoot. Further, once the ground is warm, it plays its part in heating its surroundings. The temperature always flows from high to low. Hence, a heated floor would help heat the room.
Takes less space
Hydronic heating does not require ducts or vents. Therefore, it does not require much additional space. The pipes needed for this system can be fixed to floor joints or existing piping. Thus, it does not change the ambience of your home.
Non-drying
Remember reading that you need to use a humidifier with your heater? Well, you do not need to use one with this heating system. That is because it uses liquid. Also, radiant heat does not dry out your air. This means there will be no more compromising on humidity or using another appliance to maintain it.
Zonal heating
Not everyone likes the same temperature. While some people like it a little cold, others prefer warm. Nonetheless, everyone ends up adjusting for a temperature in between. One massive advantage of this type of heating is that it can, quite literally, create different zones in your home. You can have different temperatures for separate rooms. It is ideal if you have children or flat mates. Further, keeping the door open or closed would not affect temperature.
Disadvantages Of Hydronic Heating
Along with advantages, there are also some disadvantages associated with this type of heating:
Takes time to heat your room
Liquids and gases are both fluids. However, liquids take longer than gases to travel from one place to another. Therefore, unlike systems that use gas, this system takes longer to get the temperatures high.
Higher installation costs
The high efficiency that this system offers comes with a price - high upfront cost. You must think about whether it is worth it for you or not.
Conclusion
Although the heating system has its disadvantages, it offers impressive benefits. However, since it is not cheap and requires attachment to your pipeline, you must think carefully before installing it. As with any equipment, you must maintain it properly. Also, call an expert in case you suspect leaks or any other malfunction.
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