The largest energy user in ones home is the heating system. So choosing a new energy efficient unit is especially important. Many homes have central heating systems that generate heat at a central point and distribute it by air, water or steam to the rooms in the house. So before purchasing a new heating system it is important to compare efficiencies and installation and maintenance costs of various heating systems.

Furnaces

Warm air heating systems or the furnaces heat the house using heated air. The heated air rises through large supply ducts and the cool air is pushed into the furnace through cold air return ducts. In the forced air system warm air is forced into the ducts using a blower. The heated air enters the room through registers or diffusers. The cold air is returned to the furnace where it is filtered of dust and dirt particles where it is reheated and recirculated.

Heating Home Using Solar Systems

Choosing the proper solar energy system depends on the criteria like design and heating needs of the house. To heat your home with solar energy you need to decide whether you want an active or a passive system. Active solar systems collectors that collect solar radiation and electric fans distribute heat from the collectors. Unlike passive systems, active systems are often more practical since most systems incorporate storage systems to provide heat when sun is not shining. Passive solar systems are popular due to their simplicity. However they are impractical to fit in an existing home if the site is shady. You need to consult a professional before installing the solar heating systems.

Active Heating Solar Systems- types

Two basic types of active solar heating systems are liquid or air systems. Liquid systems use water or an anti-freeze solution to capture, transfer and store heat produced by hydronic collectors. Whereas in air systems air is captured, transferred and heat is stored and distributed from "air collectors". Both these systems collect solar radiation, distribute and store heat that the collectors produce.

Boilers or Hot Water Heating System

Boilers work on the principle that hot water rises and circulates from boiler through large supply to radiators. Due to the weight difference between the hot and cold water the cold-water returns back to the boiler. A pump distributes the hot water and the pipes that are attached to the boiler can be placed above or below the boiler. The expansion tank of the boiler acts as a cushion of air from heated water to expand, so the pressure does not become excessive in the system.

Heating Design
A good heating system also needs to be well designed. Factors such as the house construction, the location, the kind of materials used is to be considered. The age of the people who would be using the heating system as well as their lifestyle is...

Kitchen Heating
In every kitchen there is a problem if the room temperature or the water temperature is below comfort level. Kitchen heating is thus essential to every home. Kitchen heating focuses on how best to make your kitchen a more comfortable and warm place...

Radiant Floor Heating
Two thousand years ago the Romans used the radiant under-floor heating and even today it is the most popular form of central heating in Europe. It is now spreading gradually in North America and rest of the world. Benefits of Radiant Floor...