Heat distribution and control systems

A water-based heating system with traditional radiators is the most common form of heating in Swedish houses.

Water-based heat distribution

Water-based distribution provides the most flexible system and is suitable for most heat sources.

The water-based heating system can be classified into two variants:

  • High-temperature systems that are installed in houses built before 1984. The temperature of the water leaving the boiler is around 80 degrees C.
  • Low-temperature systems that are installed in houses built in 1984 or later. The temperature of the water leaving the boiler is around 55 degrees C. The water-based underfloor heating system is an example of low-temperature systems.

Control systems

The task of the control system is to maintain the required temperature at a uniform level in all parts of the building. Every degree increase in temperature corresponds to 5 percent increase in energy consumption for heating.

Sensitive and fast

A good control system must be sensitive and fast in adjusting the heat supply to compensate for solar radiation and other extra heat sources, although preferably without increasing the output during temporary airing of the house.

New control systems for direct electric heating have sensors for various zones in the dwelling. The sensor senses the actual temperature in relation to the preset, required temperature.

Benefits of a power monitor

You can install a power monitor in order to save electricity and money. The power monitor will switch off a certain item of equipment, such as the heating system or water heater, when the total electricity consumption in the house reaches a certain level. This will enable you to change to a lower main fuse rating and thus have a lower network charge.

Direct electric heating

In addition to water-based heating, direct electric heating is also common in Swedish houses.

Read more about direct electric heating as a heat distribution method.

Air-based heating

A house can also be heated by an air-based system in which heat is produced, for example, in an air-air heat pump, in a fireplace or pellet heating stove, or by preheating the ventilation air. Heat is distributed in the house by means of the ventilation air, by fans or by means of centrally located fan heaters.

Read more about ventilation systems.