Two questions:
1) Anybody really understand the advantage of low temperature radiators? A plain answer would be appreciate. I’ve heard of an European brand called Jaga, any opinion?

2) I am very confused with all the ‘new’ options. So much to choose from…
Is it cost effective a Ground heat exchanger in the backyard of a Carroll Gardens townhouse?
Any experience in New York City?
What is the best option/cost effective way to heat the house?


Comments

  1. Here’s what you need to know.

    Heat is measured in terms of BTU’s, the BTU’s are transferred from the hot water to the air through three means: radiation, convection and conduction. The amount of hot water passing through the area has a direct relationship to the amoun t of heat transferred.

    So simply put if you have VERY hot water, you can transfer it’s heat with a smaller radiator, convector or conductor. If you have a lower temp water you will need more surface area to transfer the same amount of BTU’s. This rule is what led to the development of the measurement EDR (equivalent direct radiation), but that is another topic….

    I can tell you that lower temp radiators are FANTASTIC for use with solar hot water heating systems. I am happy to speak with you on that subject and am located in Carroll Gardens. You can reach me at heat@moltenmechanical.com.

    Regards,

    -Steam Man

  2. You mean a ground-source heat pump? Very very expensive to install (you have to essentially dig a hole up to a hundred feet deep); a big apartment building in Harlem (1500 Fifth) installed one and had to import oil-rig diggers to do the job. Funny story actually, union plumbers had to be paid to stand by and watch the riggers drill.

    Heat pumps are less expensive if you have the surface area to install horizontal pipes, obviously impossible in Brooklyn.

    Afaik, radiators are radiators. Jaga may look better, but probably does not perform any different.