Furnaces have a long and storied history as one of the most popular residential heating systems around. In their earliest forms, furnaces used coal and wood to keep homes warm. Today’s furnaces typically use more efficient and less environmentally destructive fuel sources such as propane and heating oil, but few homeowners whose properties feature a furnace in Branford have a decent understanding of how they work. Read on to start learning the basics today.
Forced Air Heating
No matter what type of fuel a furnace uses, it will work on the same general principle as all other furnaces. This principle is known as forced air heating. What that means is that the furnace transfers the heat directly into the air, which is then sent by blower fans through the home’s ductwork and out its vents.
Thermostat and Fuel Valve
Modern furnaces are controlled by electronic thermostats, which tell furnaces when to turn on depending on how high the temperature has been set. Once the furnace in Branford receives a signal from the thermostat, its fuel valve will open, and the unit’s burner will ignite the fuel. These burners typically feature pilot lights or electric ignitors.
Heat Exchangers
Once the burner has been lit, its flames will begin to heat the unit’s metal heat exchanger. This essential component usually features many looped tubes, which can transfer the heat into the air. The combustion gases produced during this exchange are then vented safely to the exterior of the home.
Air Handlers
As heat circulates through the metal heat exchanger described above, the heated air can then be moved via blowers and fans into the ductwork, where it can be circulated throughout the home. Once optimum temperatures have been reached in each room, the furnace will shut off until the next time its thermostat registers the indoor temperature dropping to below its pre-set limit.
Maintaining Furnaces
Any homeowner using a Furnace in Branford for heat should be conscientious about providing the unit with adequate maintenance, as this helps to ensure its continued efficiency. Summer is the perfect time to schedule routine maintenance visits with a repair tech since the heating unit really won’t be required for at least another few months. Get in contact with Business Name to schedule a maintenance check.
