Research Study—
Radiant Heating Systems and Tankless Water Heaters Further Enhance Opportunities to Create Hyper-Efficient Home Heating Systems

Given the many factors affecting today's energy market, home builders are investigating available options for efficient and cost-effective heating systems. The arrival of new tankless water heaters and hydronic heating systems such as radiant floor heating are key drivers in this trend. Together, these two heating innovations can deliver incredibly efficient heating systems that cost less than traditional forced air, but deliver a much larger payback in terms of reducing ongoing energy costs while improving the overall comfort and air quality of a home.

This study is designed to provide an introduction to the factors that support gas (both propane and natural gas) as the primary energy source for both water heaters and hydronic heating systems.

Builder market research conducted by the propane industry found that while consumers prefer gas for water heating, they defer their decision to the home builder. The research also found that many builders are still recommending that electric water heaters be installed in homes. This study explains why electricity is the wrong choice for water heaters, and how propane can help a builder to offer a home heating system that is hyper-efficient and delivers tremendous value in reducing a homeowner's ongoing energy costs.

The paper begins by examining the factors that support gas as the preferred energy source for water heaters, then moves on to examine how tankless water heaters deliver even greater improvements in reducing energy costs without any trade-offs in regard to performance. Hydronic heating systems are also examined with a focus on radiant floor heat.

The paper closes with an examination of how tankless water heaters can be used for randiant floor heat systems. This new development results in unprecedented efficiency and creates new business opportunities for home builders in both new construction and remodels.

The discussion presented here is based on the use of professional-grade equipment available through established wholesale distribution channels.

Click on the link below to view the entire research paper and learn more about the value of propane water heating systems to both home builders and homeowners.

Water Heater Research Paper (108KB PDF)