Introduction – Forced Air Heating System
Staying comfortable during colder months could be a challenge, but not if you have a forced air heating system in place. Providing effective heating, these heating systems have gained great popularity among homeowners worldwide, especially in regions with a colder climate.
What is a Forced Air Heating System?
A forced air heating system is simply a heating system that uses air as its primary heat transfer medium. These systems work by heating air in a furnace and then forcing the air through ductwork around the house. The hot air emerges from vents in your rooms, thus warming up the space.
Forced Air Heating Can Be Powered By Any Number Of Fuels
A significant aspect of these systems is their flexibility regarding fuel sources. A forced air heating system can be powered by a variety of fuel sources including:
The choice of fuel can depend on factors like local availability, cost, and environmental considerations. Each fuel type may require a specific kind of furnace or burner, but the principle of distributing the heated air remains consistent across the different types of forced air heating systems.
Comparing Forced Air To Other Systems
The furnace’s versatility in fuel selection — including gas, oil, or electricity — means that homeowners can choose a model that suits their local availability and budget.
To understand the unique features and advantages of forced air systems, let’s contrast them with other common heating systems:
- Hydronic (or Radiant) Heating: Instead of circulating warm air, hydronic systems use water or another liquid heated by a boiler. This heated fluid circulates through pipes in floors, radiators, or baseboard heaters. They are known for even, consistent warmth and can be more energy-efficient, especially in well-insulated homes. They, however, can be costlier to install and may not provide the rapid heating response that forced air systems can.
- Heat Pumps: These are devices that transfer heat energy from a source to a destination. In cold weather, they extract heat from the outside (even when it’s chilly) and bring it indoors. Conversely, during warm periods, they can cool homes by reversing the process. They are highly energy-efficient, especially in milder climates. Still, they might not be as effective in extremely cold temperatures without a supplementary heat source.
- Radiative (or Infrared) Heaters: These systems emit infrared radiation that directly heats objects and people in its path. Instead of heating the air, it warms surfaces. These are often seen in patios or large open spaces like warehouses. While they can provide immediate warmth in their direct path, they might not uniformly heat an entire room.
- Steam Radiant: These systems, though less common today, use steam generated by a boiler to heat cast iron radiators. When the steam cools, it condenses back into water and returns to the boiler to be reheated. They can provide cozy warmth but might be less efficient and more challenging to maintain than modern systems.
The Multipurpose Forced Air Heating Systems
Another attractive feature of a forced air system is its cooling capabilities. Pairing the system with an air conditioner or heat pump allows the distribution of cooled air, making forced air heating and cooling a year-round comfort solution.
Furthermore, these systems can be integrated with accessories such as humidifiers and air purifiers for improved indoor air quality. Carrier is a brand noted for such integrative solutions.
Manufacturers Of Forced Air Systems
Goodman
Goodman is a brand that is synonymous with reliable, energy-efficient furnaces that have excellent warranty periods. One of its popular models is the GMVM97 Gas Furnace. Praised for its high efficiency and quiet operation, it’s equipped with a modulating gas valve that precisely maintains a constant temperature without drastic swings. Often recognized as a homeowner’s go-to-choice for its blend of affordability and quality.
Carrier
Carrier’s HVAC solutions are recognized for their multi-functionality, sustainability, and innovative technology. The Infinity 98 Gas Furnace with Greenspeed Intelligence, one of Carrier’s leading models, stands out for energy efficiency, quiet functioning, and smart compatibility with Carrier’s unique home comfort system, ensuring your home environment stays comfortable throughout the year.
Trane
A stalwart in HVAC, Trane’s known for building heating systems that deliver in quality and durability. Their XC95m Modulating Furnace is celebrated for its consistent comfort using a variable-speed motor and its ability to optimize efficiency by communicating with other HVAC components. It justifies its higher upfront costs with significant long-term savings on energy bills.
Efficiency Of Forced Air Heating Depends On Fuel Type
Forced air heating systems are among the most common means of warming homes and buildings. They function by heating air using a furnace and circulating it through ducts to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
However, with various options available for the type of furnace and fuel source, it becomes crucial for homeowners and developers to consider both the efficiency and cost associated with each.
Below is a table comparing different forced air heating devices, their fuel type, efficiency, and the cost associated with producing one million BTUs of heat:
| Forced Air System Type | Fuel Type | Efficiency | Cost per million BTU |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Furnace | Electricity | 98% | $44.85 |
| Fuel Oil Furnace | Heating Oil | 78% | $37.96 |
| Natural Gas Furnace | Natural Gas | 82% | $19.68 |
| Air Source Heat Pump | Electricity | COP 3 | $14.65 |
| Ground Source Heat Pump | Electricity | COP 4 | $10.99 |
From the table, it’s evident that while some devices like electric furnaces boast high efficiency, they can also come with a higher cost per million BTUs. On the other hand, devices like ground source heat pumps, despite using electricity, offer a more economical heat production rate, thanks to their high Coefficient of Performance (COP).
Sustainable Heating and Carbon Footprint Reduction
Forced air heating systems promote environmental sustainability. By choosing a system with high energy efficiency, you contribute to reducing your household’s carbon footprint.
Remember that even though a system may be “fuel efficient”, the fuel itself could be super expensive. Therefore we use “dollar efficient” as the metric.
The most high efficiency systems in terms of output per dollar spent are heat pump types, seasoned wood types and natural gas types. Electricity and heating oil fuel-driven systems are the most expensive.
Weighing Up the Downsides
Potential downsides of forced air systems include uneven heating, dry indoor air in winter, and potential noise, especially if the system lacks regular upkeep or if the ductwork is improperly installed. However, through proper installation and routine maintenance, these issues are largely avoidable.
Wrapping Up
When considering cost, efficiency, sustainability, and comfort, forced air heating systems prove to be a robust choice for home heating. Renowned brands like Goodman, Carrier, and Trane promise quality products tailored to meet distinctive heating needs. With an informed decision, your investment in these can contribute to years of blissful warmth and comfort.
