Hydronics: The OG HVAC - Part 2
From The Building Science Podcast by Positive Energy
January 27, 2026 · 1h 22m · Season 10 · Episode 159
About this episode
The episode discusses advanced hydronics systems and their controls, focusing on the transition to natural refrigerants and making hydronics accessible to the mainstream market.
An interview with Benjamin Jewell. This is Part 2 of our latest series to familiarize our industry with the world of hydronics systems and air-to-water heat pumps. In Part 2 we’re rejoining the conversation to look at controls - the "central nervous systems" of these hydronics. We’re moving beyond old-school mechanical switches to a new class of microprocessor based systems that prioritize "outcomes"—like thermal comfort and air quality—rather than just reacting to thermostat calls. This shift is about adding intelligence that anticipates comfort needs and makes the system more stable and predictable for both the installer and the homeowner . We also dive into the high-stakes world of the global refrigerant transition and how hydronic systems allow a home to become "refrigerant agnostic" and truly future-proofed . We unpack the potential of natural refrigerants like R-290 (propane) and discuss why builders and developers are the key stakeholders in the transition of this product class from high-end homes to the baseline approach for every home that’s built. We wrap up by looking at how simplified "kit" solutions are finally removing the traditional barriers of labor and…
People in this episode
Guest: Benjamin Jewell
Topics covered
- hydronics systems
- air-to-water heat pumps
- microprocessor controls
- thermal comfort
- refrigerant transition
- natural refrigerants
- kit solutions
Keywords
- hydronics
- HVAC
- air-to-water heat pumps
- thermal comfort
- refrigerant transition
- natural refrigerants
- microprocessor controls
- kit solutions
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Carrier Hydronics
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- Our Hidden Roommates · February 12, 2026 · 1h 4m
- Buildings as Habitat: Biodiversity-Informed Investments in Public Health · January 20, 2026 · 1h 17m
- Hydronics: The OG HVAC - Part 1 · December 23, 2025 · 1h 24m
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