Advantages of Hydronic Heating Systems
There are several distinct advantages to using hot-water heating as opposed to steam heating. For one thing, hot-water heating is more flexible than low-pressure (above-atmospheric) steam systems because the temperature may be widely varied. Due to the low working temperature of the water, the heat from a hot-water sys- tem is relatively mild, and the room atmosphere is not robbed of any of its healthful qualities. Moreover, these systems function as reservoirs for storing heat, because the radiators remain warm a considerable length of time after the fire in the boiler is extin- guished. Other advantages of hydronic heating are:
• Delivery of uniform, comfortable heat without the annoying problems of cold pockets or stratification.
• Comfortable humidity levels.
• Less energy is used to circulate water than to blow air through a duct system.
• Quiet operation.
• Easy zoning.
• No possibility of dust, allergens, and unhealthful organisms being trapped in ductwork.
Disadvantages of Hydronic Heating Systems
A principal disadvantage of a hot-water (hydronic) heating system is its initial high installation cost when compared to a forced-warm- air heating system. Other commonly cited disadvantages of hydronic heating are:
• Stagnant air caused by lack of ventilation (air movement) in radiant heating systems not equipped with cooling.
• Comparatively slow heat response.
• Baseboard convectors interfere with furniture placement along walls.
• Condensation in some hydronic cooling systems.
Troubleshooting Hydronic Heating Systems
Most problems associated with hot-water heating systems involve the heating appliance (boiler, water heater, or hydro-air furnace), the water circulation pump, or the automatic controls. Table 7-1 lists some of the more general problems associated with hydronic heating systems. Specific problems involving boilers, water heaters, and auto- matic controls are covered in the appropriate chapters of Volumes 1 and 2 of the Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Library.
