Conversion to water-circulating heat distribution

Do You Currently Have Air-Circulating Heat Distribution?

Electric underfloor heating (outside the bathroom) and electric radiators are air-circulated, so-called dry heat distribution systems. Additionally, a fireplace or an air-source heat pump can be used as auxiliary heating systems. Electric radiators are distinguished from water-circulated radiators by the absence of incoming and outgoing water pipes.

In simple terms, this means that electric resistors heat the air around them, which mixes with the room air, making it warmer. However, if you have gas or oil heating, or district heating, your heat distribution is already water-circulating. In this case, heat is transferred to your room air either from water-circulating radiators or water-circulating underfloor heating, where the circulating warm water heats the room air.

A traditional water-circulating radiator with clearly visible water pipes. The piping leading to the radiator might also be concealed within the wall structures.

Switching Heat Distribution Method Can Be Surprisingly Beneficial

Switching to water-circulating heat distribution can offer significant savings in heating costs, as it allows you to change your primary heating method to geothermal heating or an air-to-water heat pump. This significantly reduces the cost of electricity needed for heating, precisely by the efficiency ratio of the heat pump. This way, both hot water for use and heating for rooms are managed by the same heat pump.

Additionally, water-circulating heat distribution allows for maintaining a more consistent room temperature and the opportunity to take advantage of cheaper spot electricity prices.

Options for Water-Circulating Heat Distribution

Water-circulated heating can be implemented with either underfloor or radiator heating. Underfloor heating might be possible to install on top of the existing floor structure. Switching from air-circulating to water-circulating heat distribution always requires a detailed assessment by a local contractor.

The most cost-effective way to change heat distribution is to install wall-mounted water radiators, similar to electric radiators, and connect them to a heat pump via piping. This modification causes minimal disruption to residents. For aesthetic reasons, the piping and casing can be hidden from view, which increases the renovation cost. It is advisable to discuss these options thoroughly with contractors.

If a larger renovation is needed, it is wise to consider switching to a fully water-circulating underfloor heating system. Since the heating surface area is large, the heat pump operates more efficiently due to the lower supply water temperature. Underfloor heating can also enhance comfort by reducing drafts around the feet, as warm air is distributed more evenly throughout the room. For many, underfloor heating is also a more aesthetically pleasing choice, as the entire system is out of sight.

During a major renovation, it might also be a good opportunity to add or update the insulation in the subfloor, significantly reducing the building's heat loss and thus lowering heating costs.