Central heating systems will contain a primary source, such as a furnace, that supplies the heat. There are 4 basic components in every furnace, which include the burners, heat exchangers, a blower and a flue for delivery of exhaust. The main energy sources can be gas, oil, or a hybrid of the two, and electricity.
Upgrading the central heating system can increase the value of your home. With an upgrade of your central heating system, you can gain the benefits of added comfort, as well as improved energy conservation. The heating system in your home is probably operating at 75% efficiency, which means that 25% of your heating bill is actually being given away. With the emphasis being placed on energy efficiency, many of the current Cv storing heating systems are capable of operating at 90% efficiency or better.
Some heating systems are rated according to the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency or AFUE. Others may use the Heating Seasonal Performance factors (HSFP), while some systems will be rated according to the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER. The rating will be determined by the type of installation.
The AFUE is the measurement used for evaluating oil and gas fired furnaces. It indicates how much fuel is being consumed and how much is wasted. High efficiency furnaces can be more than 96% efficient. Higher efficiency leads to more consumption and lower energy bills. This means that a lower amount of energy is needed to heat your building, resulting in lower costs.
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER is used to rate heat pumps and air conditioners. The higher number implies increased savings in energy bills. The HSFP is used to gauge the efficiency of heat pumps, with higher ratings implying higher efficiency and increased costs savings. With the central heating, systems, the heat is generated in one location, before it is distributed to other areas of the home or building. This approach is different from the use of space heaters or fireplaces that heat specific areas or rooms.
The typical central heating system would involve the combustion of fuels such as gas, oil or coal in a boiler or furnace. The furnace will normally be located in the basement or loft area of the home, and commercial buildings will include a dedicated boiler room. In regions of lower electricity costs, the heating systems will be powered by electricity, and many regions are implementing eco-friendly solutions such geothermal heating pumps.
When evaluating your heating, there are some very important reasons why professional assistance is necessary. You will need to determine which system is right for your needs. The requirements will be based on the size of your home or the areas to which the heat is distributed. You will need to get an idea of how much heat will be lost.
This is determined by the insulation, and the relationship of wall floors and roofs that have external contact. Calculations that use the desired temperatures, as well as internal temperatures and volumes of space, are used to generate an approximate of the required heating capacity denoted as British Thermal Units needed per hour.