Hydronic

• Letters

  Follow-up questions on using water heaters for radiant heat, framing sub speaks out, clarification of span-to-depth ratio of floor trusses, architect espouses teamwork

   

• Trouble-Free Forced-Air Heat

  An hvac contractor explains how to size, select, and install furnaces and ductwork to ensure quiet, efficient, and even heating.

   
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  Using Water Heaters for Radiant Heat

  A veteran plumbing contractor points out the advantages of using a gas water heater instead of a boiler for a hydronic heating system.

   
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  Hardwood Flooring over Radiant Heat

  Hardwood floors can perform well over radiant heat, but it takes careful hvac design, good job-site moisture control, and careful coordination between the heating sub and the flooring contractor. Here’s what you need to know.

   

• Resources: Radiant Heating Guide

  Radiant heating primer, masonry veneer guide, user-friendly UBC Index

   

• Products

  Hydronic zone control valve, pro-duty kneepads, prefab corner moldings, emergency generator panel

   

• Notebook

  Tariffs on drilled studs may be reinstated, Arizona OSHA found liable in job-site death, becoming an expert witness, tax law on sub vs. employee

   

• Case Study: Hydronic Heat Retrofit

  Using PEX tubing and panel radiators, the author retrofitted central heating with minimal disruptions to framing and finishes.

   

• Building Technology: Fifteen Years of Change

  We take a look back at the new products and technologies that have changed the way we build.

   

• Hydro-Air Heating Options

  For climates where both heating and cooling are needed, this hybrid system offers the greatest flexibility. An hvac contractor shows how he makes it work.