In HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), heating systems can be categorized into several types based on their method of heat generation and distribution. Here are the main types:
In this article:
Types of Heating System in HVAC
Central Heating Systems
What is Central Heating System?
A central heating system is a system that provides heat to an entire building or multiple rooms from a single central source. It is commonly used in homes, offices, and industrial buildings to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, especially in colder climates.
Components of Central Heating System?
The following are the main components of central heating system:
- Furnaces (Forced-Air Heating)
- Uses natural gas, propane, oil, or electricity.
- Heats air and distributes it through ductwork.
- Boilers (Hydronic Heating)
- Uses gas, oil, or electricity to heat water.
- Distributes heat via radiators or underfloor piping.
- Heat Pumps
- Transfers heat between indoor and outdoor air or from the ground.
- Types: Air-source, ground-source (geothermal), and water-source heat pumps.
- Hybrid Heating Systems
- Combines a heat pump with a furnace to optimize efficiency.
How it works?
Heat Generation: A central boiler, furnace, or heat pump generates heat using fuel sources like gas, oil, electricity, or renewable energy.
Heat Distribution: The generated heat is distributed through a network of pipes, ducts, or radiators.
Temperature Control: A thermostat regulates the temperature by turning the system on or off as needed.
Local Heating Systems
These systems provide heat to specific areas instead of an entire building.
Electric Resistance Heaters
Includes baseboard heaters, wall heaters, and space heaters.
Uses electric coils to generate heat.
Radiant Heating
Uses electric panels, hot water tubes, or infrared heaters.
Commonly installed in floors, walls, or ceilings.
Wood, Pellet, and Gas Stoves
Burns wood, pellets, or gas to generate heat.
Typically used in small areas or as supplemental heating.
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Also Read: Best Heating system for your Home.
