But cooling is a different story. Contractors who install hydronic systems often leave the cooling to their air-side partners. These contractors usually rely on conventional air conditioning systems or possibly a high-velocity ducted system to cool a space that utilizes hydronic heating. Paying for a second system is not a palatable option for many homeowners, though, who have already shelled out a premium price for a hydronic system.
There are some, however, who say that hydronic cooling can be useful in certain residential situations. It’s important to note that there are design considerations that must be observed to produce cost-effective hydronic cooling; however, it’s worth taking a look at all the options.