68 HEATING, VENTILATION & SERVICES


and thus their distribution power requirement is higher, assuming the same blower motor technology in each device. The hiher the distribution effi ciency, the lower the operating cost of the distribution system per unit of heat delivered. For example, consider a ‘traditional’ hydronic heating system that uses four small circulators, each operating on 75 watts input power, and collectively delivering 100,000 Btu/ hr to the building. Assuming that all circulators are operating under design load conditions, the distribution effi ciency would be 333.3 (Btu/hr)/watts. A contemporary ‘homerun’ hydronic distribution system is well-suited for use in low energy homes, as it uses a hiheffi ciency variableseed ressure reulated circulator to create  ow between the buffer tank and eight individually regulated panel radiators. Under design load conditions, the water leaving the buffer tank is maintained at 120°F, well within the operating range of an air-to-water or water-to-water heat u, ivin  eibility for desiners as well as ensurin effi ciency is aintained


The author, Gary Perry of Altecnic


when necessary. For example, most of the components used in a properly designed, installed and maintained hydronic distribution system will last for many decades. They will outlast the system’s initial heat source or cooling source, and perhaps even its second or third heat source or cooling source. Put simply, properly executed hydronic systems are long-term investments rather than ‘throw away’ technology. Contrast this with the typical service life of many modern appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines and microwaves, some of which will not even last 10 years under normal service. Portions of those discarded appliances will inevitably end u in landfi lls


A SYSTEM DESIGNED TO LAST Many professionals who plan buildings or HVAC systems are being asked to incorporate ‘resilience’ into their designs. The objective is to create buildings and systems that are reliable, long-lasting, adaptable and easy to repair


Professionals who plan low-energy and net-zero buildings, or place emphasis on decarbonisation, environmentally conscious design, and resiliency, should carefully consider these benefi ts associated with hydronic heating and cooling systems.


Gary Perry is managing director at Altecnic


THE OBJECTIVE OF ‘RESILIENCE’ IS TO CREATE BUILDINGS AND SYSTEMS THAT ARE RELIABLE, LONG-LASTING, ADAPTABLE AND EASY TO REPAIR


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