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In a region where sub-zero temperatures are just another fine winter’s day, a new police station in Wasilla, Alaska is keeping occupants efficiently cozy.
The Wasilla Police Department boasts a new hydronic radiant heat system that’s providing reliable comfort with zoning controls, helping curb emissions, and keeping heating costs in check.
PEX tubing in the concrete foundation circulates warmth throughout the 20,000-square-foot facility, which is divided into nine temperature zones. The building is also equipped with a snow-and-ice-melting system to keep walkways outside safe – crucial for a public facility that’s open 24 hours a day.
“It is a known fact that hydronic radiant heating can be as much as 40 percent less expensive to operate as compared to other types of heating systems,” Lance MacNevin, P. Eng., director of engineering for PPI’s Building & Construction Division, tells Plumbing & Mechanical. “In a public facility such as this police headquarters, hydronic radiant heating checked all the boxes: reliable, comfortable, zoneable and sustainable.”
Radiant heating uses low-temperature fluid to generate warmth, making it one of the most efficient heating systems available. It’s also compatible with a variety of high-efficiency heat sources, including propane-fired boilers.
