While central heating used to be only for the rich, most people today wouldn't know what to do during a cold winter without heat. The first method of central heating actually used slaves to fan furnaces to keep fires constantly burning.
Your heating system works hard, and you can help keep it in good shape between inspections: The onboard air filter in your HVAC setup is there to catch dust, pollen and particulates. It should be cleaned or replaced at least twice a year -- more often if you have pets.
If you smell gas, turn off your furnace and check for leaks. A gas furnace shouldn’t leak at all and smelling gas is a big sign something is wrong.
One new type of heat pump on the market today is called a ductless or mini-split pump. These don’t rely on an existing duct system; rather multiple wall-mounted indoor units can be installed in individual rooms, which are all connected to a single outdoor unit.
Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) are expensive and difficult to install. However, the EPA estimates that a geothermal heat pump can cut your heating energy costs by anywhere from 30% to 70%.
Did you know that having properly serviced heating equipment can help to cut your monthly heating bills? If you’ve noticed a sharp increase in what you pay for heat each month, it’s time to call us in to evaluate the condition of your system.
The most common heaters used in homes are gas and oil furnaces. Both heat air as it's passed over a heat exchange unit. Essentially, air is drawn into the unit, heated, and then force back into the home through ducts.
In forced air furnaces, the ducts are more like the veins and arteries of the human body. Cooled air is brought to the furnace by the return ducts and once heated, this air is distributed to the building through supply ducts.
Furnaces and boilers, if maintained as directed, last up to 12 years. Newer models, again if maintained as directed, can last even longer, up to 20-25 years.
According to the United States Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, geothermal systems are the most environmentally friendly way to heat your home. They do not rely on burning fossil fuel to function, and only use a modest amount of electricity.
Many social changes throughout history stem from modern heating systems, as homes have increased room sizes instead of cramped, radiator-heated rooms. People could stay up after sundown even when it was cold outside, and bedrooms were no longer just to sleep in, but also allowed for comfortable personal space.
With central heating systems, poor ductwork can contribute to the buildup of carbon monoxide because it inhibits proper ventilation. When a heating system tune-up is performed, having the ventilation system checked at the same time is a smart safety measure.
One form of electronic ignition for newer gas furnaces employs an intermittent pilot system. This uses an electronically controlled high voltage electrical spark to ignite the gas pilot and then subsequently the main burners when the thermostat calls for heat.
If you have a structure that is unoccupied or that will be left unattended for an extended period during cold months, consider having heating boiler anti-freeze added to the system. It is a non-toxic liquid that prevents both freeze damage and mold build up.
One of the biggest ways to save energy in your home is to install a programmable thermostat on your heating system. You may not remember to turn down the heat at night, but your thermostat will. Small changes can add up to big bucks at the end of the year.
Unfortunately, even heating equipment that’s been impeccably maintained through the years will still eventually reach a point where it can no longer be repaired. If you need help finding an affordable replacement, we may be able to help.
Energy efficient furnaces can help keep you warm by using less energy, which saves you money. These furnaces are combined with high-quality insulation to keep warm air in your home.
One of the benefits of using a conventional boiler is that it can be easily customized to meet specific heating needs. With conventional boilers, you have a choice between a gravity-fed system or one that is traditionally pumped.
With steam radiant heating systems, the heat is distributed with steam piping and radiator units. These systems may be fueled by natural gas, propane, oil, or electricity, and are often found to be advantageous over other systems because they are efficient and warm spaces rather quickly.
Do you know that the very first "hot water heater" was made by a man in England in 1868. He heated cold water by flowing it through pipes that were exposed to a burner of hot gas.
The right HVAC system can protect your family and is more than just an additional feature for your home. In places where it is cold, a heater is a significant necessitity and provides the right temperature so you stay comfortable.
For most this country's history, people stayed warm with fireplaces, wood stoves, or space heaters, but that changed in the mid-1900s. In fact, since after World War II, the majority of homes have been built with central heating units.
If you're planning a party, consider turning down your thermostat. Each guest is equivalent to a 175-watt heater, and a large gathering will warm your home without any help from the furnace or heating system.
Electric heating systems often have individual room thermostats. Lowering or shutting off the heat in the unused rooms is a great way to lower your winter heating bills.
Did you know that people can actually be allergic to cold? The condition is called "cold urticaria" and has yet to be understood by scientists and researchers. It is unknown how many people are affected or how the condition develops.
In 2009, the average American family spent $1,900 a year on utilities. That's a lot of money for heating, water, and sewer service. Utility charges are going up every year, too. To control your costs, check your bills closely for errors and discuss energy and water saving strategies with your family.
The first tankless water heater powered by electricity was finally available to the masses back in 1927, thanks to the German company Steibel Eltron.
