If you’ve scheduled a furnace installation for your home or have recently had it completed, you may not be familiar yet with how your heating system actually works. It’s important to know about its components, as this will help you notice problems and be proactive about furnace repairs. Below is a brief overview of your furnace’s inner workings to help you get started.

Fuel Supply

Depending on your system, you may be using heating oil, propane, natural gas, or another means to warm your home. The fuel may be stored in a tank on your property or piped in along a gas line. Either way, the system needs a constant supply of fuel to run as intended.

Burner

The fuel is piped from its origin to the burner, which is where heat is actually generated. The fuel mixes with air, then ignites. The flame doesn’t make direct contact with the area to be heated, and any resulting smoke, fumes, and other byproducts are piped away.

Heating Medium

Above the burner is a chamber through which your heating medium is circulated. The medium is often air, but it can also be water or steam. The medium picks up heat from the burner, then circulates into the hoe to spread the warmth where it’s needed.

Flue

Meanwhile, the byproducts from the burner are released from your flue and directed outside your home. This is an essential part of the process; when leaks allow smoke back into the home, the result is unpleasant and unhealthy.

Filtration

At multiple points in the system are filters to keep dust and debris out of circulation. Your fuel line will likely have filters in place to remove impurities, while air which circulates through your system will also be filtered to improve air quality. A dirty or blocked filter can cause serious damage to your system by impeding the flow of air and fuel.

Once you can identify the various parts of your furnace and understand what they’re for, you’re much better equipped to keep an eye on them. If you notice a problem at any of these stages, schedule a visit from your furnace installation tech immediately.

Stewart Air Conditioning & Heating in Lexington, KY, is a trusted heating provider and the perfect choice to keep your home warm this winter. Talk to them about furnace installations and maintenance now, or get ready for summer with a new air conditioning system. To start, call (859) 252-4945 or review their information on the website.