Last Updated on February 10, 2023 by
Today, forced air heating systems are the most popular HVAC systems. If you’re looking for a replacement heater or want to understand how it differs from other HVAC systems types, Premier Comfort provides an overview of this type of heating system.
Forced-air heating systems
When the thermostat is turned on, the forced-air system begins to run. Intake registers draw stale air into the system, passing through air filters that remove dust, dander, and other particles. After passing through the air handler, the heated air is blown into the air ducts after being warmed by the furnace or heat pump. Heat is released through the heating vents due to air movement created by fans and blowers. The cycle repeats until the desired temperature is reached in the room or home.
Parts of forced air heating system.
In HVAC installation contractors’ opinion, the forced air heating system is comprised of several components, including the furnace and thermostat. When the thermostat detects that your home’s temperature is below its setting, it will turn on the stove, then turn it off once the desired temperature is reached. This system also includes other components, such as the blower, heat exchanger, return ducts for drawing cold air in, supply ducts for pumping air into different house parts, and a fan limit switch.
The Pros of forced air heating system
Heating with forced air can help you stay warm during the winter. If you decide to use a unit, make sure that it is the most suitable for your use. The forced air option is a comprehensive, affordable, and effective solution. Heating is quick and convenient for most homeowners.
1. Heats quickly and evenly.
With a forced-air system, you can circulate warm air through your home more quickly than with any other heating system. Using the duct system, hot air is directly distributed throughout your home. In contrast, this process takes little to no time, unlike others that require air to be distributed from a central system or heated water.
2. Easy to Install
In contrast to something like a radiant heater, which might require you to tear up your floors, forced air heating works in conjunction with existing systems in your home. The installation process will be sped up even more if you already have ductwork for an air conditioner. There is no need to install new ductwork for forced-air heating because it can work with the existing ductwork.
3. Affordable
In comparison to forced-air heating, radiant heaters are more expensive. With its high efficiency and reasonable price, forced air heating is highly effective and economical. Because forced-air heating tends to be easier to install than the other alternatives, it also tends to lower the overall price.
4. Reliable
A heating system that uses electricity or a heat pump is much more likely to break down than one that uses forced air. The ducts are more durable and have fewer moving parts than other systems, so you can rely on them if you need your house to be heated. This creates peace of mind for you, another advantage to choosing a durable heating system.
The Cons of forced air heating system
For many homes, forced air is a popular choice, but there are a few downsides to consider before deciding.
1. Health Concerns
Because air is forced throughout our homes, dust, particles, and possibly mold are also carried throughout. Mold can grow inside the forced air units and circulate throughout your home, so you must keep the team cleaned adequately for your family’s safety.
2. The noise
There will always be some noise produced by your heating system, no matter how sophisticated it is. Complete noise elimination is virtually impossible even if a machine is exceptionally well-tuned and built. Air is pushed through ducts that have built up pressure, producing a humming sound. Even so, most heaters are going to make some noise.
3. Temperature regulation
A single thermostat controls all rooms of a forced-air heating system. Nevertheless, the temperature might not be the same in every room. It might be that some rooms in the house are warmer than others, depending on the location of the ductwork and the site of the room. The problem might be avoided if rooms had individual temperature controls. Separate temperature controls aren’t often available.
4. The ductwork is leaky.
Despite your ducts’ high reliability, there is a possibility that they leak. As your system wears, you may start to lose some of its efficiency. Having leaky ductwork also contributes to the introduction of pollutants into your home. Keep an eye on your electricity bill as a spike is a sign that your ductwork needs maintenance. Alternatively, you can feel around your home to see if your system seems to be working less effectively than it used to.
What to look for when choosing a heating system?
It’s essential to think about what you have now and what you’ll need in the future when choosing a heating system for your home. For older homes without ductwork, forced air heating is more challenging. There are two options in that case: install ductwork (which may or may not work, depending on the layout) or try something similar like a ductless system. It may not be as tricky to install central air if you don’t have a furnace because the ductwork is already there.
A central home heating system offers warmth for several rooms or the entire interior of a structure. A major heat source, such as a basement or attic, can be any accessible but remote site where heat is generated. Depending on the design of your central heating system, a network of ducts or pipes distributes the generated heat throughout the house.
It usually takes a professional to design the best system for your home. In making these decisions on your own, you might end up with equipment that is not sized correctly, let alone the importance of professional installation. Whenever you contact Precision Air & Plumbing, one of our experienced technicians will assess your home’s heating needs and recommend the best models to suit them. If you do so, you can be sure that you are making a wise investment when you choose a new unit.
The decision to install a forced air heat system doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Choosing the best model does not require hours spent reading manuals. Understanding how it works will make it easier to determine what you need. Request an estimate or ask questions about your home’s heating options by scheduling an appointment today.
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Is forced air heating better than central heating?
Forced air and central heating are two popular heating systems widely used in homes and commercial buildings. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best option depends on the specific needs of a property.
Forced air heating uses a blower fan to circulate warm air through ducts and the living spaces. This system is generally more efficient and cost-effective, as it can heat a home quickly and uniformly. It also allows for the use of air filters, which can improve indoor air quality.
On the other hand, central heating heats water or steam in a central boiler and then circulates it through a network of pipes and radiators to warm the living spaces. This system provides more consistent heat and is better suited for larger homes and buildings. However, installing it can be more expensive and requires regular maintenance to ensure its continued operation.
