---
title: Patterson-Kelley Solutions Blog | Hydronic Boilers
description: Hydronic Boilers | Patterson-Kelley Blog - insights, opinions and news relating to the world of hot water heating solutions
---

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- [Solutions Blog](https://info.harscopk.com/blog)

# Patterson-Kelley Solutions Blog

## [Hydronic System Balancing: Why Proper Flow Impacts Efficiency](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/hydronic-system-balancing-why-proper-flow-impacts-efficiency)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Aug 4, 2026, 10:41:21 AM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 0 Comments](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/hydronic-system-balancing-why-proper-flow-impacts-efficiency#comments-listing)

When a commercial heating system isn't performing as expected, the boiler is often the first place people look. However, many comfort issues, efficiency losses, and unnecessary service calls aren't caused by the boiler at all-they're the result of improper hydronic system balancing.

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/hydronic-system-balancing-why-proper-flow-impacts-efficiency)

## [Safety by Design: Why Service Accessibility Matters](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/safety-by-design-why-service-accessibility-matters)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Jul 1, 2026, 1:00:00 PM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [Condensing Water Heaters](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-water-heaters), [Condensing](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 0 Comments](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/safety-by-design-why-service-accessibility-matters#comments-listing)

![ChatGPT Image Jul 1, 2026, 12\_52\_52 PM](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ChatGPT%20Image%20Jul%201%2c%202026%2c%2012_52_52%20PM.png?width=716&height=477&name=ChatGPT%20Image%20Jul%201%2c%202026%2c%2012_52_52%20PM.png)

When evaluating a boiler system, conversations often center around efficiency, turndown ratios, controls, and operating costs. While these factors are undoubtedly important, there is another consideration that can have a significant impact on both facility operations and technician safety: serviceability.

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/safety-by-design-why-service-accessibility-matters)

## [The Importance of Seasonal Boiler Maintenance](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/the-importance-of-seasonal-boiler-maintenance)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Dec 5, 2025, 11:00:00 AM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [boiler maintenance](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler-maintenance)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 0 Comments](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/the-importance-of-seasonal-boiler-maintenance#comments-listing)

 

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/the-importance-of-seasonal-boiler-maintenance)

## [What is Short-Cycling and How Can You Prevent it?](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/what-is-short-cycling-and-how-can-you-prevent-it)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Mar 13, 2020, 2:30:00 PM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Insider](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/insider), [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [Non-Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/non-condensing-boilers), [Condensing Water Heaters](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-water-heaters), [Condensing](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing), [aluminum boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/aluminum-boilers), [commercial boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/commercial-boilers), [stainless steel boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/stainless-steel-boilers), [10:1 turndown](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/101-turndown)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 0 Comments](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/what-is-short-cycling-and-how-can-you-prevent-it#comments-listing)

# ![INSIDE NURO](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/hs-fs/hubfs/INSIDE%20NURO.jpg?width=248&name=INSIDE%20NURO.jpg)

Short cycling occurs when a boiler powers down before being able to complete a typical boiler cycle and is called upon to satisfy a second call for heat, in quick succession. A typical boiler cycle consists of firing, post purge, idle period, pre-purge and then back to firing. Boiler short cycling can be seen in two critical areas; mechanical and economic.

In this blog, we discuss how this affects the boiler and how we can mitigate short cycling and losses incurred from it.

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/what-is-short-cycling-and-how-can-you-prevent-it)

## [Commercial Hybrid Heating Systems, Explained in Less Than 700 Words!](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/commercial-hybrid-heating-systems-explained-in-less-than-700-words)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] May 31, 2019, 8:31:08 AM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [Non-Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/non-condensing-boilers), [Condensing](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing), [commercial boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/commercial-boilers)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 5 Comments](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/commercial-hybrid-heating-systems-explained-in-less-than-700-words#comments-listing)

![P-K SONIC and P-K THERMIFIC VELOX - Hybrid System ](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_0998.png?width=311&name=IMG_0998.png)Eventually, all commercial heating systems need to be replaced – and whether you replace one unit, or five, it will require a significant investment in time and money.  In upgrading your system with the latest technology can offer in condensing equipment, high system efficiency, building management and connectivity, the cost to retrofit your boiler room can escalate quickly.

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/commercial-hybrid-heating-systems-explained-in-less-than-700-words)

## [Variable Primary OR Primary-Secondary Piping](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/variable-primary-or-primary-secondary-piping)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Apr 30, 2019, 1:53:10 PM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [Non-Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/non-condensing-boilers), [Variable Primary Piping](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/variable-primary-piping), [Primary-Secondary Piping](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/primary-secondary-piping)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 2 Comments](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/variable-primary-or-primary-secondary-piping#comments-listing)

# Hydronic Boilers Piping Arrangements

Just like we would debate over sports, music, or politics, engineers have long held strong opinions about piping arrangements for hydronic heating systems.  Which is better:  Primary-Secondary or Variable Primary?  They each have their benefits, but most boiler manufacturers tend to side with Primary-Secondary.  Wouldn’t it be nice to have a different choice?

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/variable-primary-or-primary-secondary-piping)

## [Turning Up Turndown](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/turning-up-turndown)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Dec 27, 2018, 2:14:15 PM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [Condensing](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing), [aluminum boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/aluminum-boilers), [commercial boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/commercial-boilers), [turndown](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/turndown), [10:1 turndown](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/101-turndown), [low turndown](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/low-turndown), [turndown ratios](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/turndown-ratios), [high turndown](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/high-turndown), [5:1 turndown](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/51-turndown)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 1 Comment](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/turning-up-turndown#comments-listing)

## Commercial Boiler Efficiency

![AdobeStock\_40733858](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/hs-fs/hubfs/AdobeStock_40733858.jpeg?width=216&name=AdobeStock_40733858.jpeg)Placing system efficiency at the forefront of commercial boiler acquisition continues to be a trend in the heating and water heating industry. Manufacturers are racing ahead to push the limits of technology by offering aggressive [turndown](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/breaking-down-turndown) capabilities approaching, and even exceeding 20:1, at the detriment of system efficiency. 

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/turning-up-turndown)

## [Benefits of Stainless Steel Commercial Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/benefits-of-stainless-steel-commercial-boiler)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Nov 29, 2018, 2:37:57 PM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [Direct-fired](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/direct-fired), [Condensing](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing), [commercial boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/commercial-boilers), [stainless steel boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/stainless-steel-boilers)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 0 Comments](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/benefits-of-stainless-steel-commercial-boiler#comments-listing)

### ![Stainless Steel 4000.63-1](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Stainless%20Steel%204000.63-1.png?width=213&name=Stainless%20Steel%204000.63-1.png)

### Stainless Steel Heat Exchangers

Stainless steel has increased in popularity over time due to its success in a number of different environments and applications. **[Stainless steel commercial boilers](https://www.harscopk.com/solutions/boilers/condensing/p-k-sonic/)** have proven to be reliable and efficient in both retrofit projects and new installations.  

If you are curious to learn why stainless steel has gained popularity in the heating industry, Patterson-Kelley has compiled a list for you that includes the top three benefits of owning a stainless steel commercial boiler.

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/benefits-of-stainless-steel-commercial-boiler)

## [Breaking the Stigma on Aluminum Commercial Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/aluminum-commercial-boilers)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Oct 24, 2018, 4:42:00 PM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Water Quality](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/water-quality), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [Direct-fired](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/direct-fired), [Condensing](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing), [aluminum boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/aluminum-boilers), [commercial boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/commercial-boilers)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 10 Comments](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/aluminum-commercial-boilers#comments-listing)

![IMG\_1653](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_1653.jpg?width=237&name=IMG_1653.jpg)

## ****Changing the**** **Perception of Aluminum Commercial Boilers**

The commercial heating industry has faced an ongoing debate on the benefits of stainless steel heat exchangers versus aluminum heat exchangers. The process of choosing a new boiler has become confusing for both building owners and engineers. 

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/aluminum-commercial-boilers)

## [Best Boiler Maintenance Practices](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/best-boiler-maintenance-practices)

 \[fa icon="calendar'\] Jul 23, 2018, 1:55:21 PM / by [Patterson-Kelley](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/author/patterson-kelley) posted in [Boiler](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/boiler), [Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/condensing-boilers), [Water Quality](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/water-quality), [Hydronic Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/hydronic-boilers), [Non-Condensing Boilers](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/topic/non-condensing-boilers)

[\[fa icon="comment"\] 1 Comment](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/best-boiler-maintenance-practices#comments-listing)

## **Why Annual Maintenance?****![inspection](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/hs-fs/hubfs/inspection.jpg?width=1920&name=inspection.jpg)**

Like changing the oil of your Ferrari F60 every 3,000 miles, all **[heating equipment](https://www.harscopk.com/solutions/)**, both boilers and water heaters, require annual maintenance. No matter the life expectancy of a heating system, ‘WEAR & TEAR’ will interfere with the performance of your heating equipment.

[Read More \[fa icon="long-arrow-right"\]](https://info.pattersonkelley.com/blog/best-boiler-maintenance-practices)

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