In this article we explore how hydronic heating systems can provide an efficient and eco-friendly solution for off-grid homeowners in both urban and rural settings. This has always been a topic of discussion with clients, but here’s why it seems to be coming up more and more.
With close to 50,000 solar battery systems installed across the country during 2022 (an increase of 55 percent on the year prior) it’s clear that as a nation we are embracing a new approach to energy consumption. Approximately two percent of Aussies are living ‘off the grid’ – not connected to mains water or energy, using compostable toilets. The last few years since the global pandemic have seen house prices soar. This, along with the hike in utility bills and climate change have nudged along the decision making, and sometimes the move to off-grid doesn’t mean the need to exit urban surroundings. Many folk are now off-grid in the city, embracing a highly sustainable approach to living.
Being off-grid and maintaining the usual comforts can sometimes be a little more challenging, such as keeping your home temperature at the ideal levels throughout the year. Thankfully, sustainable off-grid heating is completely achievable.
Enhancing self-sufficiency: how hydronic heating complements off-grid living
Hydronic heating uses water, which is warmed via various heat sources and circulated through a closed pipe system to generate ambient heat throughout buildings of all sizes. This occurs via products such as radiators and underfloor heating.
Taking this approach enables homeowners to select from various heat sources to power the system, making it adaptable to diverse off-grid homes, in any location. In more remote settings, wood-fired boilers or diesel boilers can be effective, as can solar power, which is also suitable for urban off-grid set ups. The flexibility of the options available increases self-sufficiency, with occupants able to select the heat source that aligns with their resources, budget and location.
Eco-friendly living: the environmental advantages of off-grid hydronic heating
One of the most compelling aspects of hydronic heating in off-grid settings is its eco-friendliness. When powered by renewable energy sources such as solar, the hydronic approach creates a minimal ecological footprint. The efficiency of the system in evenly distributing heat and maintaining comfortable temperatures results in reduced energy consumption, with radiant heat warming objects in the space and creating longer lasting heat that doesn’t leak out of the home. Thermostats can also assist in energy efficiency of the set up, with the ability to set timers and temperatures and zone any sized home. When areas are not in use, the zone can be switched off entirely, or the temperature adjusted to suit when it will be used later on.
Hydronic heating sources for off-grid homes
Energy options for powering off-grid hydronic heating systems include:
- electricity, powered by solar
- wood-fire
- diesel
- LPG (bottles)
- wind turbines (integrated with a heat pump)
- geo thermal energy (accessed via heat pumps)
The diesel and LPG options are less appealing on a few fronts. The cost to purchase the fuel being one of the main factors, but also the reality that using these sources is not great for emissions and environmental impact and can also pose a safety risk.
Heat pumps do require electricity to run, so they will need to be linked to a solar power set up and ideally a substantial storage capacity battery for evening use. In areas where the temperatures really drop and the colder weather lasts longer – regional Victoria or Tasmania for example – having a decent battery backup is a must.
Solar powered hydronic systems: a sustainable choice
Essentially, solar energy heats the water which is circulated through the closed pipe system to the hydronic heating products – usually wall mounted radiators, heated towel rails or underfloor heating. The solar energy also powers heat pumps and electric water heaters and boilers. While the initial investment for the set up can come with a decent price tag, it’s all about the long game. The longer term savings on energy and the environmental benefits make it a worthwhile investment, along with the fact that homeowners can be off-grid using this renewable energy resource. For those living in urban areas and in homes that are within unit complexes, there are now systems that enable multiple apartments to hook up to a shared solar power system so they too can benefit from the power of solar and hydronic heating.
Wood-fired and diesel hydronic systems for rural homes
Rural off-grid homes often rely on wood-fired or diesel hydronic systems. Wood fired boilers using sustainably sourced wood, can be a cost-effective solution, particularly in areas where there are abundant wood resources. Diesel systems, while less eco-friendly, offer a high degree of reliability and can be more suitable in areas where other resources are scarce. It’s important for homeowners in any location to consider the energy sources available to them, costs for set up and running, along with their personal environmental impact goals.
Integrated water heating solutions
Another perk of hydronic heating systems is the possibility to provide hot water for homes. This is achieved by paring your heat source with a hot water storage tank, allowing homeowners to use the same system for both home heating and domestic water heating, meaning they can then streamline energy usage and reduce the complexity of their off-grid system.
Maximising efficiency: maintenance of off-grid hydronic systems and insulation
It’s critical that hydronic heating systems are integrated into the off-grid home professionally and regularly maintained. Regular maintenance of all products as per manufacturer’s guidelines is imperative to the overall efficiency of the system. If you’ve integrated solar panels, they need to be kept clean per manufacturing guidelines. Regular checks will also help to prevent potential issues that could impact system performance.
Proper insulation also ensures maximum efficiency and will support the longevity of the system and not just in the roof, but also the cavity areas within the walls and floors. Anywhere that could promote heat loss, such as windows lacking in appropriate seals, gaps in floor boards and spaces under doors all need to be addressed. The double glazing of windows can support efficiency as can the placement of radiators directly beneath main glass panes in colder climates.
Financial considerations and incentives
Adopting the off-grid heating system involves an initial financial commitment. However, there are increasingly more incentives being offered by state and federal government as grants or tax rebates. These incentives can help to offset the set up costs. Additionally, the long term benefits of the savings on utility bills and the increase in property value can make hydronic heating a financially sound choice for many homeowners living off grid.
Hydronic heating offers a versatile, efficient and environmentally conscious choice for off-grid homeowners. Whether through solar, wood-fired or diesel systems, it provides a viable solution for heating and hot water needs, which aligns with the principles of sustainable and self-sufficient living. As the world continues to move more towards eco-friendly living solutions and trying to meet targets, hydronic heating stands out as a practical and effective option for all homes, particularly those off-grid.
The team at Hunt Heating are Australia’s leading supplier and consultants for all things hydronic heating and cooling. Contact us today to discuss your property climate control needs.
