The short answer
Hydronic heating circulates heated water through emitters such as radiators or floor tubing. The heat source, distribution and controls work together. Domestic hot water is a separate function unless the installed system is designed to provide both.
Identify the heat source and the zones
Gather the boiler label, thermostat locations and any drawings showing zones or manifolds. Describe whether one room, one floor or the whole property is affected. Note when the issue began and whether it followed renovation or service work. Leave internal adjustments and diagnostic testing to the qualified technician.
A boiler replacement is not the whole design
Ask the contractor to assess the existing distribution, controls and intended operating conditions before choosing a replacement. Record any floor areas or radiators that have always been uncomfortable. If domestic hot water shares the system, explain household use and ask how the replacement proposal addresses both functions.
Coordinate floor and renovation work
Before drilling or changing flooring, locate existing system documentation and discuss the work with the appropriate trades. Tell the heating designer about floor-covering changes and altered room layouts. Do not infer concealed pipe locations from the direction of visible pipework.
Shared systems need shared planning
For strata and multi-family properties, identify the equipment owner, access arrangements and who approves an interruption. Ask for a work sequence, resident communication plan and service records. Confirm BeeWarm’s scope and whether the particular installation needs additional specialists.
Prepare for your assessment
- Boiler model and available drawings
- Thermostats and affected zones
- Any shared domestic hot-water function
- Strata contact and resident access plan
Common questions
Is radiant floor heating always water-based?
No. Some floor systems use electrical resistance. Identify the actual system before requesting a heating assessment.
Does a boiler always supply taps and showers?
No. It may serve space heating only, or be designed to work with domestic hot-water equipment.
Continue planning
Sources & further reading
Speak with Robert Hamilton at BeeWarm about your property and confirm availability, qualifications and the accepted scope. Find your Lower Mainland service area.
Published October 8, 2026 by BeeWarm. General planning guidance, not an installation procedure. Exact requirements depend on the equipment, property and authority.