Monday, April 5, 2010

Hydronic heating systems

When most people hear about hydronic heating systems they get find it difficult to understand such high-profile words. In simple terms hydronic heating systems are water-based heating systems have been around since 1800’s. In the twentieth century, many homeowners used radiator heating systems and common boilers in their high-rise apartment. However, with change in technology, more efficient electric and gas heating systems were used in modern commercial and residential construction. Today, the energy coat is on the rise and many people are looking for energy efficient heating systems that can reduce their heating and cooling coat. Also, many people are concerned about their environment and are looking for ways of reducing the affect of heating system on the environment.

Hydronic heating systems work on the principle of converting water into steam to heat the rooms. Gas or oil fired boilers are used to convert water into steam that is sent to all the radiators in the house. However, it is difficult to control the level of steam in the rooms, as the steam generated by hydronic heating systems is not uniform. Many people avoid using hydronic heating systems as they tend to overheat or under heat the room. Also, some radiators that are close to hydronic heating systems get more heat, while others get less heat. At times, radiators at are at a distance from the hydronic heating systems do not get any heat.

When hydronic heating systems where used in multi-storey buildings, the rooms that are close to the hydronic heating systems would get roasted while others will not receive any heat. Another problem of using is hydronic heating systems is that they use systems made from cast iron to supply hot air to different rooms. Cast iron is highly corrosive and needs to be properly installed for maximum benefit. There are some people who are unable to install the system correctly, that can allow trap air into the water supply which corrodes the system. This could cause problems like water leaks, loud noises from the system, unwanted opening of pressure release valves and maintenance headache. However, it the fitting is done in a right way, you not have any problem for at least 20 years.

Today, most people use stainless steel and copper tubes instead of cast iron. Hydronic heating systems made from copper and steel are more energy efficient when compared to cast iron hydronic heating systems. Hydronic heating systems that use stainless steel tubes filled with gases to heat the water and circulate it to the radiators. These hydronic heating systems are slimmer and can be easily mounted on the walls.

There are many companies that make hydronic heating systems that have water filled tubes. These tubes are heated with the help of gas or electricity and the steam generated is sent to radiators in the house. These tubes are made from copper which is a good conductor of thermal energy. Also, these tubes are usually “fin” shape that ensures accelerated heating.