My local area is well-known for our snowy conditions.
We experience lake-effect snow which accumulates from sometime in October until April or even May.
It’s not unusual for us to get several feet of snow in a single day. Along with snow flurries, snow showers, freezing rain and blizzard conditions, we also deal with extremely cold temperatures. We are accustomed to below-freezing and even negative readings for months at a time. The heating system is essential and a big part of the household budget. I am fortunate that my home is outfitted with a boiler. A hydronic heating system offers all sorts of unique perks. The boiler heats water and sends it through a network of pipes concealed beneath our floors. Because water heats up quicker and retains heat longer than air, the boiler doesn’t need to work as hard, run as long or use as much energy as a forced air furnace. Plus the heat is distributed at floor level and rises slowly upward. The more even temperature and absence of drafts allows for comfort at lower thermostat settings. There are no drafts or cold pockets. Our radiant flooring is set up for zone control. We have an independent thermostat in each room that allows customized temperature settings. We can answer room requirements, avoid heating empty spaces and cater to the preferences of family members. One of my favorite perks of the boiler is that it also links to an outdoor snowmelt system. Just like inside the house, there is a series of pipes installed under the pavement of the walkways and driveways. The snowmelt system reacts to temperature drop and moisture, automatically starting up and spreading heat across the pavement. Snow and ice melt away without any need for shoveling or plowing. There are no concerns over slipping and falling on icy pavement. We don’t need to figure out where to pile the huge amounts of snow.