What is forced air heating?

Forced air heating is a type of heating system that uses a furnace or heat pump to heat air and distribute it throughout a building using a network of ducts. The system is called “forced air” because a fan or blower is used to force the heated air through the ducts and into the living spaces. The process of forced air heating begins with the furnace or heat pump, which is responsible for generating the heat. A furnace typically uses either gas or electricity to heat the air, while a heat pump uses electricity to transfer heat from the outside air or ground into the building.

Once the air is heated, it is blown through the ductwork by a fan or blower. The ductwork is typically made of sheet metal and is sealed to prevent air leakage. The ductwork is typically installed in the attic, crawl spaces, or basements and is connected to the furnace or heat pump. The heated air is then distributed throughout the building through a network of registers or grilles, which are located on the floors, walls, or ceilings. The registers or grilles can be adjusted to control the flow of heated air into each room.

Forced air heating systems are popular because they are efficient and versatile. They can be used to heat both small and large buildings and can be easily controlled with a thermostat. They also provide good air circulation and can be used to distribute air conditioning in the summer as well. However, forced air heating systems do have some drawbacks. They can be noisy, and the ductwork can be a source of drafts and air leaks. Additionally, ductwork can become clogged with dust and debris, which can reduce the efficiency of the system and affect air quality.

To maintain the efficiency and performance of a forced air heating system, regular maintenance is necessary. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting ductwork for leaks, and having the system inspected and serviced by a licensed HVAC contractor.

Want to know what happens if you don’t service your system? Click here.