Three Things to Know About Home Heating Systems

Whether you’re a new homeowner or simply want to learn more about the systems of your house, having background knowledge of your heating systems can be very useful. Here is some information you’ll want to know about home heating systems:

1. Kinds of heaters: The most common types of heaters include furnaces, boilers, space heaters, radiant heating systems, pellet stoves, and heat pumps. Furnaces are one of the most popular types of heating systems because they are so effective at quickly heating large areas. Boilers are often selected because of their ability to produce radiant heat, which some find more enjoyable than forced air heating. Radiant heating systems are touted for their quiet efficiency, while space heaters are often chosen because of their cost-effectiveness.
2. Fuel and functioning: The different varieties of heating systems require different fuels — such as propane, oil, and electricity — and each functions uniquely to distribute heat throughout your home. Furnaces rely on either natural gas or propane to produce heat, and boilers are powered using water, which is heated and converted to steam, to increase your home’s temperature. Heat pumps depend on electricity to carry and heat air from the outdoors.
3. Maintenance: Different types of heating systems require varying amounts of upkeep to optimize efficient performance. Furnaces benefit from annual inspections, while boilers need consistent cleaning and examination, as they’re more susceptible to clogging due to accumulated dust and grime. Unlike radiant heat, forced air heating systems do not need a lot of maintenance. In general, taking measures like keeping dust and dirt from accumulating around your heating systems’ components, and not allowing furniture or other items to obstruct its various parts will help guarantee proper operation.