What is a Forced Air Heating System?

A forced air heating system is an HVAC system such as a furnace or heat pump that uses air as its heat transfer method.

These systems utilize ductwork, vents and plenums in order to distribute the heated air throughout the building.

A complete cycle of heating looks like this:

• First, the return ducts carry air from several large return grilles located around your home (these are the large grilles on the walls) back to your air handling unit to be heated.
• Before it goes into the heat exchanger, the return air is drawn into the plenum, which has higher air pressure than the outside. This works to equalize the air pressure for more even distribution.
• Once inside the heat exchanger, the air is heated by a burner or heating coil before being blown (or forced) into the supply ducts.
• The supply ducts distribute the air back into the house. This cycle will have to be repeated numerous times before the temperature set on the thermostat can be achieved.

Like any type of central HVAC system, a forced air heating system is controlled by a thermostat. The thermostat can sense when the temperature has dropped below the desired level. This can cause the forced air heating system to turn on.

If you have questions about your forced air heating system, or you need heat pump or furnace service in Ocean, Middlesex or Monmouth County, NJ, contact the experts at Arctic Air Conditioning today.

We can address any concerns you have with your forced air heating system.