Do you need help with your central heating system? Learn more about it here.
What is central heating?
A central heating system provides heat to the entire interior of a home, with heat coming from one point and is distributed to multiple rooms. This is separate from a central cooling system, but when put together, they are called an HVAC system or heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
The components of a central heating system
In the most basic sense, this heating system is divided into two parts: the part that creates or provides the heat, and the one that distributes the heat. Heat is provided in two forms: space heating to keep your rooms warm, and hot water that is used in your shower and kitchen. The basic requirements here are:
- a boiler or a furnace – this heats the water
- piping – this moves the hot water around the home
- emitters – either radiators or underfloor heating
- hot water cylinder – this stores hot water for use, except for combi boilers
The Boiler
The boiler is the most important component of the heating system. The type and size of your boiler will impact its operation and efficiency. There are generally three types of boilers: combi boilers, conventional boilers and system boilers.
The Boiler Size
The size of a boiler is measured in kilowatts (kW), which is the amount of energy used by the boiler to heat and distribute water through the home using specific calculations by a qualified engineer.
Fuel Type
Different boilers can burn varied types of fuels such as:
- Natural Gas – burns methane from the gas mains in most towns and cities
- LPG – liquid petroleum gas, usually propane or butane
- Oil type C2 – burns kerosene or jet fuel
- Oil type D – burns ‘gas oil’
- Solid mineral fuel – uses coal or coke
- Biomass fuel – uses wood logs, pellets or chippings
- Electric – uses electricity like other electric appliances
Homes are highly dependent on central heating systems, especially during cold months. It is important that you have proper boiler installation, boiler repair and regular boiler service to make sure your heating system is functioning properly and efficiently. Give RJ Gas a call and we’d be happy to help you with your central heating system needs.
