This is a special issue of idronics. Unlike past issues, which have focused largely on one topic, this issue broadly describes the fundamentals of hydronic systems. These fundamentals are the foundation of good system design and proper installation. When clearly understood and applied, they allow designers to create systems that deliver superior comfort, energy efficiency and long-term reliability. When ignored, the results are likely to be inefficient operation, wasted materials, excessive callbacks and unhappy customers.
This issue was outlined based on suggestions from many hydronic heating professionals. They indicated the need for an issue directed at those new to hydronics, as well as one that could refresh and clarify basic concepts to those already working with hydronic systems. This issue fills that need. Starting from scratch, a thorough discussion of hydronics technology would require hundreds of pages. Fortunately, previous issues of idronics have already discussed many specific topics related to hydronic system design in considerable detail. This issue will leverage that information.
While reading through this issue, you will find frequent references to previous issues. Watch for the idronics icon shown above, followed by reference to one or more previous issues. All of these other issues are freely available as downloadable PDF files under the idronics archive link. You are encouraged to download all of them, and keep them available for reference.