overcoming these difficulties, mainly by the device called the indirect
system.

We need not fret ourselves here with a technical elucidation of either
form of heating. We may, however, consider some of the claims made for
hot water, which is apparently coming to be considered the preferable
arrangement for dwelling houses. There is not a great deal of
difference between the essential features of steam and hot-water
systems.

It is declared that water will absorb more heat than any other
substance, hence will take from the boiler practically all the heat
produced in the combustion of fuel. As the temperature of the water is
automatically controlled, the atmosphere of the rooms may be kept at
the desired degree, the presence of radiators in each room, all of the
same temperature, giving an even heat over the entire house.

There can be no sudden drop in temperature, as the water in the pipes
continues to distribute warmth even after the fire has been checked or
has been allowed to go out. The fuel required for an ordinary stove,
it is asserted, will warm an entire house with hot water. An engineer
is not required. Inexperienced persons have no difficulty in operating
the ordinary boiler, and there is no danger whatever, because, the
makers adduce, for steam heat the maximum pressure is about five
pounds, while with hot water there is practically no pressure at all.
Very little water is used, and a connection with the street water
system is not imperative, though convenient.