Single-stage non-modulating heat sources in zoned distribution systems often face short cycling, particularly with low thermal mass. When few zones are active, they struggle to dissipate generated heat quickly, causing temperature build-up and potential shutdown of the heat pump based on internal limits, with varied restart behavior depending on controls.
Geoffery Holloway has been appointed to vice president and general manager.
September 26, 2025
Holloway brings over twenty five years of experience in the industry to this role, including his most recent role as VP of Canadian sales at A.O. Smith Enterprises.
As air-to-water heat pumps replace boilers in North American hydronic systems, designers must rethink traditional approaches to heat transfer, or risk costly and inefficient installations.
Air-to-water heat pumps are gaining popularity in North American hydronic systems, but many practitioners are discovering that they operate differently from boilers.
The Ambient Air-to-Water Hydronic Heat Pump features a 5-ton capacity (rated at 60 MBH) and provides reliable space heating with outdoor temperatures as low as -13° F.
Every year, manufacturers develop new or improved products for the North American hydronic market. Product development planning by those manufacturers depends on several factors. Here are a few of the main considerations.
Multiple boiler systems have been used for decades. They allow full heating capacity to be delivered when necessary, while also retaining high efficiency under partial load conditions compared to a single large boiler.
As global energy planning moves away from fossil fuels and toward electricity, an increasing number of hydronic heating systems are being supplied by heat pumps. Some use water-to-water heat pumps supplied by geothermal earth loops. Others use air-to-water heat pumps.
I've had lots of opportunities to review plans for pending hydronic heating systems. I've also been on "forensic" visits to sites with improperly performing systems. Of the two, I much prefer plan review over forensics.