How Do Hydronic Air-to-Water Heat Pumps Provide Heating & Cooling Benefits?

When it comes to hydronic air-to-water heat pumps, most homeowners know about their exceptional heating capabilities, especially through radiant floor heating. More often they overlook this system’s ability to cool efficiently which makes it a year-round solution for home comfort. Even more intriguing is the concept of radiant floor cooling that has been a staple in European homes for decades; but this concept remains underutilized in North America.

A radiant cooling system offers several advantages: it’s noiseless, dust-free, and energy-efficient. Studies by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California state that radiant floor cooling can reduce energy consumption by over 30% as compared to traditional forced-air systems.

Dispelling the Myth of Condensation in Radiant Cooling

The common misconception is that radiant floor cooling causes condensation that can lead to wet floors. This occurs only when the system is poorly designed. Including a dew point sensor like the REESOL TS510, eliminates this hassle. When combined with an MX controller, the system adjusts the cold water temperature to avoid condensation.

For effective cooling, this system requires a 10°F difference between the floor and indoor temperature. For instance, circulating chilled water at 66–68°F can maintain indoor temperatures of 68–76°F comfortably, ensuring a cool and comfortable environment without any hassle of condensation.

Energy Savings and Efficiency

Radiant cooling systems are more energy-efficient than forced-air systems. The difference depends on the power consumption. A radiant cooling system includes a circulation pump that uses only 0.5 amps, while a fan coil in a traditional AC system can consume 8–10 amps. In addition, radiant cooling provides even temperature distribution throughout the home and eliminates hot or cold spots, drafts, and noisy fans.

Managing Humidity 

Radiant cooling systems don’t address humidity problems. But you can combine it with a whole-home dehumidifier, like those offered by Aprilaire, and manage moisture levels effectively. These dehumidifiers cost around a quarter of what an air conditioner does to operate and maintain a healthier indoor environment without cooling excessively your home.

Year-Round Comfort and Cost Savings

A hydronic air-to-water heat pump is a worthwhile investment that operates throughout every season, offering both heating and cooling benefits. In addition, this heating system provides significant savings on residential hot water costs.

Final Conclusion –

By using advanced technology, such as radiant cooling and dew point control, homeowners can maximize their comfort while reducing energy expenses. That proves Arctic Heat Pump is the ultimate solution for efficient, year-round home climate control.

Moreover, hydronic air-to-water heat pumps are often celebrated for their heating capabilities; but you should not overlook their cooling potential. With efficient design and advanced technology, radiant floor cooling systems can provide a comfortable, efficient, and affordable solution for modern homes. For more details about the hydronic heating system, feel free to contact the Arctic Heat Pumps team at 1-866-800-8123.