Forced Air Heating System Advantages and Disadvantages

Forced air heating systems have become widely popular in the United States for a variety of reasons, but are they really the best choice? Forced air heating systems are popular because they are relatively easy to install and highly effective at heating an entire house. However alternative heating methods have become popular due to the rising costs of natural gas and electricity. This article will take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of using a forced air heating system.

Advantages of using a forced air heating system

1. Easy installation of central air condition

The biggest advantage of using a forced air heating system is the fact that a central air conditioning unit can be installed without having additional vents or duct work. Central air can bring up the value of any home due to the convenience it poses.

2. Quickly heats up the entire house

Forced air heating keeps a relatively even temperature throughout the house, but some spots may become warmer or cooler than others depending on location near vents.

3. Forced air heating systems are energy efficient

Forced air heating systems work by using a thermostat to determine when they are turned on or shut off; this allows them to be energy efficient.

4. Air can be filtered

Forced heating systems allow for air to be filtered before it is dispersed throughout the house, thus eliminating the need for an additional filtration system.

Disadvantages of using a forced air heating system

1. Regular maintenance

Forced air heating systems require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Maintenance includes changing air filters, duct maintenance, and regular maintenance on the heat source.

2. Noisy

When a forced air system turns on the sound travels through the vents and is noisy throughout the house.

3. Price

Although the initial cost of a forced air heating system is relatively inexpensive the rise of natural gas and oil prices makes for an expensive heating system. Depending on location other heating methods are more cost efficient, but they cannot deliver central air during the warmer months. Older forced air systems are not energy efficient and could be a costly repair if you are considering purchasing a home with forced air heating.

4. Heat is not evenly distributed

Although forced air heating systems are great at heating the entire house they do not offer uniformity. The reason or the uneven heating is due to the location of vents, some areas in one room may be cooler or warmer than others.

Sources:

Personal experience working at a hardware store

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forced-air