I need basics for hydronic combo system

Bruce_2

Greetings, folks. I'm a builder going contractor who is HVAC impaired.

First thing I'd like to find is a source for basic info on different types of hydronic systems ... direct, indirect, combo, etc. I really don't want to get into a serious course on all there is to know about hot water, just want to be able to sort it out and understand what a contractor is offering.

Secondly, I've read all the posts dealing with Trinity boilers. I've done so because of what I've seen at http://www.radiantdirect.com/page2.html . So two issues about it ... is this a serious, dependable boiler? And secondly, please explain to me simply how this or any combo system works, as I have a point of confusion. This guy says, "The Trinity will heat from 1,000 to 10,000 Sq. Ft. and supply over 5 Gal. of hot water per Min." And he goes on to say that this is not an instant water heater. So my basic question(s) ...

Can I build a 3800 sq. ft. house w/ 3.5 baths and get the hot water an owner needs going this way? In a system like this, does the boiler send water to a storage tank for domestic use, or just heat it on demand? What if it's winter, the heat is cranking, and 2 people are taking showers while someone is in the kitchen using hot water?

He also claims that his company has sold and/or installed over 3000 systems relying on underfloor radiant with no pans or trays of any kind spreading the heat, and that it works and is efficient. Says reflective insulation below the tubing is the key. Any thoughts? Anyone have any feedback about Radiantdirect?

I've got an insulator who sprays icynene, and says he'll staple baffles under the tubing to create a space, then foam under that, sealing everthing up so it drives the heat up thru the subfloor. More thoughts?

I realize I've asked a load here. I don't mind doing homework if someone points me to the right source. Thanks for any help.

Steamhead

Bruce, the best advice I can give

is to go to the Books and More page of this site and order "How Come?" which covers all forms of hydronic heat, and "Hydronic Radiant Heating" which covers radiant, and "Pumping Away" which covers pumping and piping techniques.

Next you'll want to learn about steam, so order "The Lost Art of Steam Heating".

Dan handles these subjects as well as I could ever hope to. And he offers a money-back guarantee!



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