FAQ
Q
What size boiler should I have?
What happens if the boiler power exceeds system needs?
A
Ideal power should be slightly over the maximum required in calculation conditions.
If it is much higher than the latter, there is an excess consumption of fuel. The boiler will tend to frequently turn on and off with the consequent increase in wear and heat loss.
Q
How does Hydronic Heating work?
A
A Hydronic heating system consists of five components:
1. The boiler heats water to a thermostatically controlled temperature. Boilers use natural gas, LPG, Off Peak Electricity or can be wood fired.
2. The piping, usually made of copper or plastic (Rehau), carries the heated water from the boiler to radiators/convectors, and back again for reheating.
3. A pump circulates the water through the piping.
4. Radiators or convectors transfer the heat to the room. Several types are available.
5. Thermostats control the heat levels to optimize comfort.
Q
What do I do if my heating does'nt work
Q
How do I bleed my Radiators?
Q
Is Hydronic Heating safe?
A
Hydronic Heating is safe for elderly people, children and pets. There is no danger of burn or scald as the system is fully enclosed with radiator temperatures well below boiling point. The surface temperature of natural convectors is pleasantly warm to touch.
Q
I have an existing house, is it possible to add hydronic heating?
A
Yes, most houses can have hydronic heating at any time, however, houses on a concrete slab become more difficult due to access for pipe work.
Q
How much does it cost to install hydronic heating?
A
To install hydronic heating the approximate cost is currently around $500.00 per house square (9m²) of an average sized house, this of course depends on job difficulty and the individual specifications of each home.
Q
Is there any benefit to insulation?
A
As with all heating, insulation improves the effectiveness by reducing heat loss through walls and ceilings. The boiler is not running as often for a given output thus saving fuel bills.
Q
What is radiant heat?
A
Radiant heat is a form of hydronic (hot water) heat that circulates warm water through special tubing. Radiant heating systems heat objects throughout the room, so you can feel the difference. It simply eliminates cold draughts and keeps the heat at the floor, warming you and the furniture, not the air.
Q
What makes hydronic heating so economical to operate?
A
A high efficiency boiler is used to heat water that is circulated throughout the system. Each area can be individually controlled so you only use the amount of heat you need.
Q
What fuel should I use?
A
If you live in an urban area, the cheapest fuel will be natural gas. If natural gas is not available, LPG, Electricity or solid fuel boilers can be used, as well as solar.
Q
Where should a thermostat be installed?
A
A thermostat should be installed in a main living area (usually the family room). This should be located on an internal wall in an area free of draughts, and away from sources of direct heat, such as system panels or direct sunlight.
Q
Healthy Hydronic Heating vs. Ducted Heating – No Contest.
A
There are major differences that you should be aware of between ducted and hydronic heating systems. Ducted heating circulates and re-circulates warm air via ducts around your home bringing with it airborne particles, dust and other undesirable pollutants, all of which trigger factors for asthma and other breathing allergies.
Panel radiators are draught free, clean and silent. They do not rely on blowers cycling on and off to provide you with the ultimate in home heating. Radiation and natural convection combine to produce a heating system that will astound you both in the quality of heat and its ability to provide uniform temperatures at the lowest possible relative humidity.