Syracuse has 104 inches of snowfall annually (well beyond the U.S. average of 28), 42 fewer days of sunshine, and regular January lows of 15 degrees.
Because of this, its likely that homeowners would care more about turning on their heating systems than how they function – but knowing the latter will only help to do the former.
What Are The Different Types of Heating Systems, and How Do They Work?
All heating units fall under two main types of heating systems: forced air and radiant.
Forced Air Systems
Forced air systems contain an electric or gas heating component, such as a burner, which burns gas, propane, or another fuel. The fuel enters the heat exchanger, while the blower motor and fan actively pull in your existing household air and send it to the same location in the air handler compartment.
As the cool air passes over the heat exchanger, it warms up, and the household ductwork releases the controlled air back into your home. Because these systems use 100% of their electricity and fuel to create heat, they’re more energy efficient and heat quicker than their radiant counterparts.
Some forced air systems include:
- Natural gas, propane, or electric furnaces
- Heat pumps
- Ductless mini-splits
Cold climate heat pumps, in particular, are becoming a new source of heating in the Northeast, as they can operate even in temperatures below zero. This makes them a reliable option for extreme winter conditions.
Radiant Air Systems
Radiant systems work more passively by creating heat energy and carrying it via wires or water to household fixtures like radiators.
From there, the system allows the heat to dissipate into each room rather than forcing it out. That means surrounding air warms and rises so the cool air can fall to the heated floors or low-lying heating components for warming. These systems heat more slowly because of this convection process but work silently.
Examples include:
- Boiler-based systems like hydronic baseboard systems
- Passive solar that utilizes thermal heat from the sun
- Radiant floor heat that uses floor thermal mass
When Should You Call for Heating Services?
In most cases, unusual noises mean your system struggles to keep up with demands. For instance, rattling or banging means internal parts have shaken loose and are banging into one another, just as whistling or hissing indicates a water, air, or gas leak.
Other signs you should call a professional for a repair include when you notice:
- Leaks or pooling water
- A musty, fungal smell or rotten egg smell indicating a water or gas leak, respectively
- A yellow or flickering pilot light
- Higher heating bills
- Uneven heating or cold air blowing from a faulty thermostat or heating component
The Five-Star, Family-Centered Team You Need!
Understanding how your home’s heating system works will help you identify when your heater is displaying unusual activity.
Whether you want to learn more or schedule a service, call Hummingbird Heating & Cooling at 315-399-9962. We offer the #1 service in Syracuse, NY and the surrounding areas!
