Five Types of Heating System Repair

Even homes in the warmest climates in the United States require a little bit of heat throughout the year. But homes in the more frigid areas are more frequently in need of heating system repair than their warmer weather neighbors. Likely, there is some type of heating unit in your home already. But you may be considering a house hunt and want a home with the ideal system for your needs. Or if you are looking to update or upgrade your existing unit, you will want to consider the advantages and disadvantages of the five most frequently used heating systems and the maintenance required to keep it in use.

There are five main types of home heating devices that require heating system repair throughout its life of use. There are forced air systems, radiant heat systems, hydronic (baseboard) systems, steam radiant systems, and geothermal systems.

Forced air systems are the most frequently used system to heat homes here in the United States. The air is heated in a furnace, and vents and air ducts are used to distribute heated air from the primary unit into the rooms to which they are connected. The advantages are that it can easily accommodate other home air conditioners, humidifiers, etc.; however, improper installation can be devastating when it comes to frequency and efficacy of maintenance and reliability of performance in between.

Radiant heat systems come in the form of potbelly stoves, in floor installations, and the typical radiator units. They are more energy-efficient, but they are expensive to initially install.

The hydronic (baseboard) systems also use hot water but combines convection in its processing. The heat is actually expelled from the rectangular devices seen near or in the place of typical floorboards/baseboards. This option makes far less noise but it is much slower in heating a designated space.

Then, steam radiant systems have that classic cast iron look and are typically found in older homes and apartment buildings. They are offered in a one-pipe or two-pipe internal system for the steam and water condensate to flow in opposite directions. They can be fueled by gas, propane, or the convenience of electricity. They warm spaces quickly but if you require air conditioning, you will need to install separate air conditioning vents and ductwork to cool your home.

But regardless of the type of heating system they all require their own specially designed heating system repair for their air filter, blower, heat exchanger, boiler, and various components that create the heat and distribute it throughout your apartment, condo, or house of any size.