In reality, there are two types of systems used with these older radiators. The classic radiator-a cast-iron upright unit usually positioned near windows-is often called a steam radiator, although this term is sometimes inaccurate. Older homes and apartment buildings in North America often are heated with these systems. Traditional boiler and radiator systems include a central boiler that circulates steam or hot water through pipes to radiator units positioned strategically around the house. Hot water also can be provided by solar hot water systems, which are commonly used to supplement fuel-based systems.ĭistribution: In-floor systems are usually distributed by hot water flowing through plastic tubing. Installing radiant floor heating typically costs between $1,800 and $6,000, while costs gradually decrease as more square footage is added.įuel sources: Hot water tubing systems are usually heated by a central boiler, which can be fueled by natural gas, liquid propane (LP), or electricity. They primarily heat the floor in such a way as to keep your feet warm, but not so much the room itself. These are less energy-efficient than hot water systems and are typically used only in small rooms such as bathrooms. There are also in-floor systems that use electrical wiring installed under flooring materials, typically ceramic or stone tile. However, boiler-based systems cannot be combined with air conditioning. Most whole-home radiant systems distribute heat via hot water heated in a boiler or hot water heater. Radiant heating is different from forced air heat in that it heats objects and materials, such as furniture and flooring, rather than just the air. While maintenance can be difficult to reach the hidden pipes, in-floor radiant heating units should last for several decades. It tends to heat slower and takes longer to adjust than forced air heat, but its heat is more consistent. It is quiet and generally energy-efficient. Modern in-floor radiant heating involves plastic water tubing, which is installed inside concrete slab floors or attached to the top or bottom of wood floors. Best for: Modern radiant heating in regions with mild winters.They are seldom fueled by electricity since these systems are older and electricity was rarely used in their era.ĭistribution: Conditioned air is circulated through a network of metal ducts. In many older homes, they continue to perform effectively.įuel source: Gravity air furnaces can be fueled by natural gas, liquid propane (LP), or fuel oil. Gravity air systems are no longer installed, and the cost of maintaining them should be minimal. Cool air returns to the furnace via a system of cold-air return ducts. The so-called "octopus" furnaces found in many older homes are gravity air furnaces. However, the temperature adjustments are slow because the systems operate by simple convection currents.Ī gravity air furnace in a basement heats the air, which then rises into the various rooms through ducts. Best for: Long-lasting heating system with little maintenanceĪ precursor to forced air systems, gravity air furnaces also distribute air through a system of metal ducts-but rather than forcing the air via a blower, gravity air systems operate by the simple physics of warm air rising and cool air sinking.Another system of ducts returns the air back to the furnace through cold-air returns. These systems can last up to 25 years before needing replacement units.įuel sources: The furnaces that power forced air systems can be fueled by natural gas, liquid propane (LP), fuel oil, or electricity.ĭistribution: Air that is warmed by the furnace's burner or the heating element is distributed through a network of ducts to heating registers in individual rooms. This is based on the square footage of your home, and larger houses will require stronger units that may increase costs. Installing a new forced air HVAC system typically costs between $5,000 and $10,000.
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