TYPES OF HEATING SYSTEMS

The majority of American homes are heated with a forced-air furnace, most commonly fueled by natural gas, but also by electricity, liquid propane or fuel oil.

How a Furnace Works

A furnace works by drawing air inside a heat exchanger, where it is warmed with a flame of natural gas, propane or fuel oil, or with heated electric coils. A blower sends the warmed air through the house via metal ducts; it enters the room through a register or grill in the floor or wall. Indoor air is circulated continuously through the system, so a furnace filter is used to contain dust, pollen and other airborne particles.

Electric Heat Pumps

Another home heating option is an electric heat pump. This unit works by moving existing heat from one area to another in one of three ways:

Air-to-air: An condenser absorbs heat from the outdoor air (even the coldest air contains some heat) and transfers it to an indoor heat exchanger inside the home. Indoor air is warmed in the heat exchanger and circulated throughout the home. During the summer, the process is reversed to cool and dehumidify the home.

Ground-to-air: Also known as a geothermal system, this type of heat pump uses underground loops to absorb heat from the earth. Geothermal systems are usually installed in newly-built homes, but can also be used in existing home.

One advantage of a heat pump is that it provides both heating and cooling capabilities in one unit. Heat pumps also use filters to reduce airborne particles and keep the unit clean.

To get more information on choosing the right Furnace for your home or office Call us at: 636-332-9444 or click on the Trane link below:

http://www.trane.com/Residential/Products/Furnaces.aspx