Installing behind-wall steam pipes to heat entire home

Hi,

I'm designing a home that will be constructed with a stone block exterior/interior.
I'm researching methods of efficient heating, and am very interested in using a solar-powered boiler and steam pipes in the walls and floors for the entire house.

What are the pros and cons? What would the best approach to this idea be?

Thanks!

 

That does seem like a pretty lofty dream!

First off, why STEAM?

TOO HOT! The heat will probably destroy whatever floor or wall coverings you use.

The idea of 'pipes' in the floor (and walls, ceiling) has been around for about a half century now.

It's usually called 'Radiant Heating'.

The modern method is to use PEX plastic tubing made for heating with an Oxygen barrier. The water that circulates is typically not above 120F.

There's lots to study up on out on the interweb...

Solar powered boiler, eh?

You'll need LOTS of collection area, and a place to 'bank' the heat you collect during the day.

Probably 1000 gallon water storage minimum...

Some reading:

http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/radiant-heating