What to Know About Different Types of Heating Systems
Most people automatically think of their home heating system as a furnace. While that is commonly the case, other options are also available to make living spaces comfortable. The guide below explores different choices and how each works so that you can make the right choice for your property.
Forced-Air Heat System
Most homes and commercial spaces use forced-air or central heating systems to warm the buildings. These are fueled by electricity, natural gas, or fuel oil. After the air is treated by the heating element, the end result is blown through ducts using a blower fan. Then, the air leaves the ducts through registers and vents in each room. This option pairs well with humidifiers or dehumidifiers to improve indoor air quality.
Gravity Air Furnace
A gravity air furnace is similar to a forced-air unit. However, it doesn't use a blower fan to disperse warm air into a network of ducts. Instead, it sends warm air into various rooms using thermodynamics and gravity. The system includes a furnace in the basement to heat air. Since warm air rises naturally, the heated air will flow upwards through ducts to be distributed into rooms throughout the property. Cold-air return ducts bring cool air to the basement furnace for heating.
HVAC contractors no longer install gravity air furnace systems because other options are more efficient. However, some older homes continue to use that method of heating.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling. During the winter, heat is leached from outside air or from deep within the ground and transferred indoors through individual air handlers located in different rooms. In the summer, heat from indoors is released outdoors or into the ground.
Heat pumps are generally energy-efficient and do not require ductwork to heat or cool multiple rooms. Because different indoor units control the temperature, you can also customize the atmosphere in different zones. For example, if you like your bedroom to be warmer but want the kitchen to be cooler to combat the effects of the stove, you can do that simultaneously.
If you’re in need of service or a new system, contact Alpine Heating & Cooling! Our team has more than 25 years of experience servicing all makes and models. We offer timely, convenient service and provide thorough inspections to catch any potential issues. Visit our website to see a full list of HVAC services, or call (330) 263-0013 for an appointment.
