Which material is often used for piping in hydronic heating systems?

Copper is commonly chosen for piping in hydronic heating systems due to several key properties that make it well-suited for this application. First, copper has excellent thermal conductivity, which allows for efficient heat transfer throughout the heating system. This feature is crucial in hydronic systems where the primary goal is to circulate heated water to radiators or underfloor heating.

Additionally, copper's resistance to corrosion enhances the longevity of piping in hydronic heating systems. This material can withstand the temperature and pressure conditions typical in these systems without degrading, which contributes to reduced maintenance needs and increased reliability.

Furthermore, copper is malleable, allowing for easy fabrication and installation in various configurations and space constraints. It can also be joined using soldering or brazing techniques, providing strong and leak-proof connections.

While other materials like plastic, steel, and aluminum may be used in specific contexts or applications, copper’s unique combination of heat transfer efficiency, durability, and ease of installation positions it as a preferred choice for most hydronic heating systems.