Energy saving potential of hydronic heating systems : Analysis of feasibility in Finland

Abstract

Global warming and climate change pose an accelerating threat to humanity. Energy production through unsustainable ways and increased energy usage post-industrialization are major rea-sons behind these phenomena. A significant amount of energy is used for heating buildings, especially in colder regions, such as Finland. This thesis examines the potential low-temperature hydronic heating systems might have for bringing down the greenhouse gas emissions caused by heating buildings. Hydronic heating systems are common heating systems that use hot water as the heat carrier. However, the possibility of lowering the systems’ water temperature has been speculated on. To understand the potential of lowering the water temperature of hydronic heating systems, the operation principles and current practices are explained. Afterwards, the developments and challenges regarding low-temperature hydronic heating systems are analyzed based on existing literature. The analysis confirms that energy savings can be achieved by lowering the water temperature of hydronic heating systems, but the qualities of the heating system and the building itself must be suitable for the switch.