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Back to Heating Systems
Open Direct System
The Open Direct System is one single system that operates in three different
and distinct ways. Yet, this ingenious system is entirely automatic. It
needs no separate actions or adjustments by the homeowner at all.
Heating Mode Operation
Domestic Hot Water Mode Operation
Summertime Cooling Mode Operation (optional)
Open Direct System Diagram
We believe this system is the best alternative. It
is simple in design, efficient in operation, has modest initial costs and
can make use of environmentally friendly solar technology. When and where
local codes permit the delivery of space heating and domestic hot water
through a single system, we recommend the Open Direct System. Here's why:
Efficiency
The Open Direct System uses a single domestic water heater
for space heating and domestic hot water, eliminating the
need for a boiler. The low operating temperatures of radiant
heating allow the use of state-of-the-art "condensing" domestic
water heaters which are 95 percent efficient. The summertime cooling feature
is free and actually lower the costs of heating domestic hot water (see
diagram).
Initial cost
The Open Direct System is extremely simple and simplicity
costs less. Consider, for example, a 2,500 sq. ft. house
with two zones. The cost for underfloor materials, pumps and controls is
approximately $4,300. Add to this the price of high-efficiency Polaris
water heater (no boiler is needed) and the cost totals $7,500, an unbeatable
price for a high-quality system.
Simplicity
Besides keeping initial costs low, this translates into greater
reliability.
Longevity
Major components are all made of stainless steel or polyethylene
plastic and should last a lifetime. And our components
are backed by exceptionally strong warranties.
Environmentally Friendly
This type of system can be designed to use solar energy initially
or can be converted to solar at any time. Click
here to see how the open direct system can make use of solar energy.
MAKE A GREAT SYSTEM EVEN BETTER!
SUPPLEMENT YOUR RADIANT SYSTEM WITH SOLAR ENERGY
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT ABOUT IT
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