Not only is hydronic heating silent, flexible, and extremely comfortable, it’s also estimated to be up to 35% more cost effective than running a central ducted heated system.
Instead of drying out the air (as many ducted systems are prone to do), hydronic heating warms objects through natural convection and radiation, evenly distributing a gentle and inviting heat. But perhaps an even more compelling reason to choose hydronic heating is for its health benefits. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 1 in 9 Australians has asthma, which is approximately 2.5 million people.
Pollutants and moisture are just some of the enemies of asthma sufferers, and many conventional heating systems – such as gas heaters or fan-forced ducted systems – spread plenty of these nasty particles around the home.
Unflued or unventilated gas heaters and fan-forced ducted systems can emit and circulate airborne dust particles, pollens and other pollutants into the household, and also produce water vapour, which can encourage the growth of mould – another trigger for asthma sufferers.
The cold, dry air of wintertime may also exacerbate some asthma sufferers’ symptoms, and poor heating choices can further aggravate the condition. By contrast, radiant heat such as that produced by hydronic heating eliminates the circulation of air entirely.
No fans, vents or ducts are involved, which means that dust mites, allergens or pollens aren’t circulated throughout the home, so you can say goodbye to dry eyes, sore throats and coughs. And with the heat contained in the radiator panels and floors, the system is extremely easy to clean and keep dust-free. It’s for these reasons that the Australian Asthma Foundation recommends radiant heating systems for households suffering from allergies and asthma.
While a hydronic heating system can go a long way in keeping your household healthy, there are plenty of additional ways to create an asthma and allergy-friendly home.
Keeping up a regular cleaning schedule will also help to reduce the amount of dust and allergens in your home.
- Wash your bed linen in hot water once a week to banish all traces of dust mites
- Choose allergy-friendly bed linen made from cotton, and avoid bedding made from down or wool
- Instead of using a feather duster, use a damp cloth to wipe down dusty surfaces like bedside tables and bureaus, and keep these areas clutter-free
- Vacuum daily with a vacuum that has a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter
- Replace as many soft furnishings as possible with surfaces that can be easily cleaned, vacuumed and wiped down (such as wood or leather)
- Choose roller blinds or Venetians that can be easily wiped down
- If possible, replace carpeting with hardwood floors and/or washable rugs that can be aired out and vacuumed regularly
- Sometimes it may be necessary to seek out a professional to help give your home a thorough clean
While so many household items can be breeding grounds for dust mites, allergens and bacteria, hydronic heating is a safe bet if you’re looking to make your home a healthier one. And with little upkeep required, it’s one of the easiest ways to ensure you and your family breathe a little easier.
Get in touch with the team at Hunt Heating today to discuss the benefits of hydronic heating.
