Energy Tip:
Did you know the Redwood Coast Energy Authority has a lending tool library where you can check out a Watts Up meter for free?
Residential Space Heating
How a Forced Air Heating System Works
All central heating systems have three basic components:
- A Heat Source (the furnace)
- A Circulatory System (the ductwork)
- An On/Off Switch (the thermostat)
When the temperature in your home drops below the setting on your thermostat (3), it activates the burner in your furnace (1). The heat is collected in a heat exchanger. A fan blows air across the heat exchanger and sends the heated air into your house through your duct system (2). Cooler air is drawn into the return ducts and sent back to the furnace to be heated again. This is called a recirculating system and is designed to increase efficiency.
This cycle continues until the temperature in your home matches the setting on your thermostat (3), which then shuts off the system.
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