What is the primary purpose of a hydronic heating system?

The primary purpose of a hydronic heating system is to transfer heat through water circulating in pipes. In this system, water is heated in a boiler and then circulated through a network of pipes to radiators or underfloor heating systems. As the hot water flows through these pipes, it releases its heat into the surrounding space, effectively warming the area.

This method of heating is efficient because water has a high heat capacity, meaning it can hold and transfer a significant amount of heat. Moreover, hydronic systems can be easily zoned, allowing for greater control over heating in different areas. This approach contrasts with air-based heating systems, which rely on heated air to warm spaces but often suffer from issues like uneven heating and higher energy loss through ducts. Therefore, the specificity of water as the medium for heat transfer in hydronic systems is what defines their primary purpose and sets them apart from other types of heating systems.