There are a variety of ways to keep your home warm throughout the colder months, but one of the most efficient solutions is forced air heating. These systems work well with electric, oil, propane, and gas furnaces, as well as heat pumps. They’re simple to install and make it easy to maintain a desirable indoor temperature, which is why they’re a popular choice for many homeowners. Whether you already use forced air heating or are considering a system upgrade, learning exactly how it works will help you achieve maximum performance. Here’s an overview of everything to know.

What Is Forced Air Heating?

Forced air heating refers to any HVAC system that utilizes ductwork and vents to regulate a home’s temperature. It’s controlled through a central thermostat that helps determine when a system turns on and off.

If you have a heat pump, it will pull heat from the air coming in the outdoor unit, transport it through the refrigerant lines, and then pass it into the ducts. A gas furnace will heat air with a heat exchanger, while an electric furnace uses high-resistance wires.

How Do These Systems Work?

Once the desired temperature has been set, forced air heating systems draw in cold air and send it through the air handler. Once it reaches the furnace or heat pump, it’s warmed up. Then, a blower pushes the air back through the ductwork and distributes it throughout the home via different room vents.

Regardless of if you have a heat pump or an electric, oil, propane, or gas furnace, the same process will be repeated until the temperature inside has reached the thermostat setting. Every time the temperature falls below the thermostat reading, the system will kick on again. 

If you’re in the market for a new heating system, contact Custom Heating & Cooling in Mountain Home, AR, to discuss your options. They offer high-quality heat pump and gas furnace products and can help determine which kind of equipment is most suitable for your home. Backed by years of training and experience, they’re equipped to handle all your HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance needs. Call (870) 425-9498 to request a free job estimate, or visit them online for more information on the services they provide.