Homeowner’s Guide 101 – How Do Heaters Work?

No matter where you live, there’s going to be a time of the year where it gets a little bit chilly. When it comes to home heating, generally, you have two types of systems. The first is HVAC, a central AC system that goes throughout your house. The second is the use of heating units that are designed typically to heat just one or two rooms. This short guide will explain how do heaters work and the different varieties you can find them in.

How Heaters Work

When you power on a heater what’s actually happening is that electricity is powering the heating coils within the system. Most heaters also include a fan which will pull in cold air. As this air passes through the heating system, it pushes out warm air into the room. So how do heaters work?  They are basically just bigger versions of hairdryers!

Different Types of Heaters

Typically that’s how most heaters have worked since their introduction at the beginning of the twentieth century. Nowadays, however, we have a wide range of options. The systems range from the simple to the complex and will definitely have you scratching your head wondering how heaters work. Here are the four most common types:

• Space Heater – Typical, portable heater that you plug into the wall usually and push out air like a hair dryer.
• Baseboard Heater – These are larger, typically fixed units that use either hot water heaters or electricity to warm hallways and small rooms. They are a lot like the radiators you see in old buildings but much more high tech!
• Infrared – This is technology at its finest. Although they tend to be on the more expensive side, they are the safest and more environmentally friendly option and with their energy savings often pay for the cost after just a few years.
• Central – these are your big HVAC systems and ideal for heating large spaces such as entire homes.

What If My Heater Breaks

Whether it is from a power surge, a broken power cord or any kind of problem, it may possible your heater needs repair. Don’t sit around in the cold! Also, don’t try to fix it yourself! There are a lot of electrical components that are not only complex but may also be dangerous.

Instead, if your heater hasn’t been working efficiently or is blowing out cold air, you don’t need to buy a brand new one, simply bring in a technician who can usually solve the problem in just a few moments! They have the tools, technology, and experience to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Heaters, just like most other appliances, need occasional maintenance to make sure they are working safely and effectively. Make sure to the help of a knowledgeable professional for all your heater maintenance needs.

Keeping You Warm and Cozy

Now that you know all about how heaters work, you’re all set for winter or one of those random cold snaps. Make sure your heating system is up to par and won’t let you down when you need it. For more heater information, feel free to reach out to Global Heating & Air Conditioning.