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Hot water radiator system vs. Forced Air

Binmn
Binmn Member Posts: 1
Hi there

We live in quite a wet zone in Wellington, New Zealand.  The house I just bought has no heating at all - just using electric radiators.  However, we do have a Rinnai hot water gas boiler.

We want to install a central heating system which uses Gas which is already piped in for our hot water.  We have quotes from forced air systems and from hot water radiator (e.g. UK style central heating).  Both are the same price and both claim to be the best and the most cost efficient.

Which should we use?

My wife does have asthma so I was slightly worried about forced air systems (despite the filters you get).

Comments

  • Charlie from wmass
    Charlie from wmass Member Posts: 4,318
    Water conducts heat better than air

    If asthma is an issue I would go with the forced water systems. I am assuming( and thats dangerous I know) that the contractors are of equal skill. Both systems can be done very poorly.
    Cost is what you spend , value is what you get.

    cell # 413-841-6726
    https://heatinghelp.com/find-a-contractor/detail/charles-garrity-plumbing-and-heating
  • Steamhead
    Steamhead Member Posts: 16,796
    Go with hot-water

    it will be more efficient (since ducts tend to leak about 20% of what you put into them) more comfortable (since moving air makes you feel cold) and won't aggravate your wife's asthma so much (ducts can harbor mold and other nasties). 
    All Steamed Up, Inc.
    Towson, MD, USA
    Steam, Vapor & Hot-Water Heating Specialists
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