There are a lot of great things about California, but cold winter nights definitely aren’t on the brochure. You’re not paying to live in SoCal to put up with 40°F nights! Say goodbye to having to crawl under a mile of blankets each night just to stay warm. You can enjoy the toasty, cozy winter you’ve always dreamed of with a fully functional heating system.
In this article, we detail everything you need to know about HVAC heating systems and provide pro advice for selecting the best system for your home. We also share helpful resources for repairing your heater. Let’s get started!
How Do HVAC Heaters Work?
After a long, hot summer, it’s easy to forget what the H stands for in HVAC. But it’s the heating component that makes these machines a temperature control system and not just a glorified fan.
HVACs are not a single unit but a whole network of different parts working together to provide a comfortable living environment. Your heater is just one part of this system, which also includes a thermostat, filter, fan, humidifier, and possibly a network of ducts.
Two popular types of HVAC heating systems are furnaces and heat pumps.
Furnaces
Furnaces are the most common heating system. These systems can run on a variety of fuel sources, including oil, natural gas, and electricity. The heating process begins when fuel enters the furnace and ignites the burner. The burner then creates heat, which moves through a heat exchanger, warming the air moving through your ducts. A blower fan disperses the warm air throughout the entirety of your home, ensuring even heating. Once your home reaches the desired temperature, the furnace shuts off until more heat is needed.
Furnaces are particularly effective in colder climates, especially when outdoor temperatures dip below 50°F, as they generate heat quickly.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are versatile systems that provide both heating and cooling, making them ideal for year-round use. These units can seamlessly switch between heating and cooling modes without homeowner intervention.
In summer months, heat pumps work as air conditioners, removing heat from your home. When it gets colder, a reversing valve switches on and pulls heat energy from the outside air, which it transfers inside your home. This process is fully automated—the system determines when to switch modes on its own.
Heat pumps share components with split-system air conditioners and use the same tech to cool your home.
Choosing the Best Heating System for Your Home
- Furnaces: Best suited for colder conditions, especially when nighttime temperatures fall below 50°F.
- Heat Pumps: Energy-efficient and suitable for a range of climates, providing both heating and cooling in one system.
Heating System Services
At Norwalk—La Mirada Plumbing, Heating & Air, our technicians work hard to ensure that your HVAC keeps your home nice and cozy all winter long. From full-service repairs to installations for heat pumps, furnaces, and more, our certified technicians have you covered. Say goodbye to freezing mornings and hello to reliable warmth.
Ready for an estimate? Call us at (562) 219-4085 today!