Hydronic Heating FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
- Andrew Chew
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
QUICK LINKS
1. WHAT IS HYDRONIC HEATING?
Hydronic heating systems use water (or water-based solutions) to transfer heat from a source (usually a boiler) to different parts of a building. The heated water travels through pipes and releases warmth via
radiators, underfloor coils, or trench convectors. The water itself isn’t consumed — it just acts as the conveyor of heat.
2. WHY CHOOSE HYDRONIC HEATING?
Comfort: Delivers consistent, radiant warmth
Design flexibility: Suits in-slab, panel, or trench setups
Quiet: No fans, no noise
Efficient: Lower energy use compared to ducted systems
Clean: No dust circulation or dry air
3. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I SERVICE MY SYSTEM?
Yes — regular servicing is essential. It preserves system performance, efficiency, and safety.
Residential systems:
Annually recommended.
Choose from:
Minor Service: Boiler only
General Service: All components
Major Service: General + power flush (recommended every 5 years)
Commercial systems:
Every 6 months.
These require more detailed assessment — contact us to discuss.
4. WHAT IS POWER FLUSHING?
Power flushing removes sludge and debris inside your system. We connect a high-pressure pump and add cleaning chemicals to dislodge and capture built-up grime, restoring full system performance.
If your system has cold spots or feels less effective than it used to, a power flush may be the answer.
5. DO YOU SERVICE COMMERCIAL SYSTEMS?
Absolutely. We work with aged care, education providers, and commercial buildings across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. If you manage a site and need a proactive partner to maintain your hydronic assets — we’re here to help.
BOILER & HEATER QUESTIONS
6. WHAT BRANDS DO YOU SERVICE?
We work on all major boiler makes and models, including: Aira, BAXI, Bosch, Cambro, Chappee Moorea, Hamworthy, Hendy, Ideal, Immergas, Junkers, Meridian, Modulex, Parsons, Raypak, Siddons, Sime, Southern, and Teledyne Laars.
7. MY HEATER ISN’T FIRING UP. WHAT DO I DO?
Step-by-step:
Change thermostat batteries
Check thermostat is calling for heat
Confirm power to the boiler (check the power point or switchboard)
Call us — with any fault codes ready
8. WHAT TEMPERATURE SHOULD MY BOILER BE SET TO?
Radiator systems: ~80°C
Underfloor heating systems: ~50°C Settings can vary based on system design.
9. WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STANDARD AND HIGH-EFFICIENCY HEATERS?
Standard heaters: ~80% energy conversion
High-efficiency (condensing) heaters: ~95% or more
They cost more upfront but significantly reduce energy consumption and running costs. They also modulate output based on demand.
10. CAN YOU HELP ME UPGRADE OR REPLACE MY HEATER?
Yes — we supply and install most major heaters. We’ll assess your system, recommend options, and ensure the new unit suits your needs and budget.
RADIATOR PANEL QUESTIONS
11. MY RADIATOR IS LEAKING. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Call us immediately. We’ll guide you through how to make the situation safe until we can attend and fix it permanently.
12. CAN YOU REPLACE OLD OR DATED PANELS?
Yes — we supply and install new panels in a range of styles and colours. We can also provide design suggestions if you’re unsure what to choose.
13. WHY ARE MY PANELS COLDER THAN THEY USED TO BE?
Likely due to sludge or blockages inside the system. A power flush can resolve this by restoring proper flow and heat transfer.
14. CAN YOU RELOCATE A RADIATOR PANEL?
Yes — we can temporarily or permanently move radiators or towel rails to suit renovations or upgrades.
15. I WANT TO ADD MORE PANELS. CAN YOU HELP?
Absolutely. We’ll make sure your system (including the boiler) can handle the extra capacity and install the new units professionally.
NEED HELP OR HAVE A DIFFERENT QUESTION? Get in touch with the team at Heataire Services. We’re happy to provide advice, quotes, or book a service call.
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