Heating Systems

Forced Air Systems

A forced air system is a type of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that distributes air through ducts using a blower or fan. This air is heated or cooled by a furnace or air conditioner, and then pushed into different areas of a building through vents. The airflow creates warmth or cooling by changing the temperature of the air around the room.

There are a few key components of forced air systems:

• Furnace or AC unit: Heats or cools the air.
• Ductwork: Carries the air to different rooms.
• Blower/Fan: Forces air through the system.
• Thermostat: Controls the temperature settings.

This system is commonly used because it can combine heating and cooling functions and is relatively efficient for distributing air evenly throughout a space.

Boiler Systems

A boiler system is a type of heating system that uses water or steam to generate heat. A boiler heats water, typically using gas, oil, or electricity. The heated water or steam is then distributed through a network of pipes to radiators, baseboard heaters, or radiant floor systems, providing heat to different rooms. A boiler  helps create warmth by warming objects within the room; this helps create a radiant heat that warms the surroundings but not the air within the room.

Key components of a boiler system include:

• Boiler unit: Heats water or generates steam.
• Pipes: Circulates water or steam.
• Radiators: Emits heat into the space.

Boiler systems are known for providing consistent and comfortable heat, but they have their drawbacks as boiler systems do not allow a way to cool the air and a secondary ductless system is needed to provide air conditioning.

Ductless Systems

A ductless system, also known as a mini-split system, is a type of HVAC system that provides heating and cooling without using traditional ductwork. It consists of two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air-handling units, which are typically mounted on walls. Refrigerant lines connect the indoor and outdoor units, allowing heat transfer.

Key benefits of ductless systems include:

• Zoned Heating/Cooling: Each indoor unit can control the temperature of a specific area.
• Energy Efficiency: Reduces energy loss since no ducts are involved.
• Flexibility: Ideal for homes without existing ducts or for room additions.

Ductless systems are popular for their flexibility, quiet operation, and ability to control temperatures in individual rooms.

Heating Maintenance

Just like your vehicle, your furnace and boiler require annual maintenance. Routine maintenance helps avoid the nuisance breakdowns that always happen during Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

Reasons for Annual Maintenance:

• Efficiency: Regular maintenance keeps your furnace running at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering your bills.
• Longevity: It helps extend the life of the system by addressing minor issues before they become major problems.
• Safety: Maintenance ensures that components like heat exchangers and burners are functioning safely, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks or other hazards.
• Consistent Heating: A well-maintained furnace provides even, reliable heat during colder months.

Heating Repair

It never fails, your heating system breaks down in the most inopportune time. Your furnace and

boiler systems are machines that run without you noticing. But when you do start to notice that your home is not maintaining temperature, then you should call us.

Ambient Air Solutions has 24/7 emergency service and has real local people answering the phones. We are dedicated to providing dependability and commitment, while also providing an amazing client experience.

When to Call Your Local HVAC Company

• Unusual Noises: Grinding, banging, or squealing sounds.
• Inconsistent Heating: Certain areas are cold while others are warm.
• Frequent Cycling: The system turns on and off frequently.
• Increased Energy Bills: Higher bills without increased usage.
• Strange Odors: Musty or burning smells.
• Old Age: If your system is over 10–15 years old and not performing well.

Replacement of Heating System

Replacing a heating system is one of the biggest decisions a homeowner can make. Your heating system provides comfort and safety, making the right decision can be daunting and feel overwhelming. A new system is an investment and understanding what you’re looking for can provide a sense of relief. Ambient Air Solutions is committed to simplifying your heating and cooling needs by providing you with multiple options, that make sense for you.

Efficiency of Furnaces:

The efficiency of a furnace is expressed as a percentage called AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). The higher the percentage, the more environmentally friendly the system.

95%, 96%, 98% AFUE – Mid Efficiency

• Higher AFUE furnaces lose less heat, meaning they use 95%, 96%, or 98% of fuel for heating with minimal energy wasted. Higher-efficiency furnaces save more on energy bills but tend to be more expensive upfront.

98% AFUE – Highest Efficiency – Modulating Furnace

• A modulating furnace operates by adjusting its heat output incrementally to match the precise heating needs of your home. Instead of running at full capacity or completely turning off like traditional furnaces, a modulating furnace can vary its output, often between 40% and 100% of its capacity. This allows for more consistent indoor temperatures, greater energy efficiency, and improved comfort because it eliminates the wide temperature swings associated with conventional systems. It also reduces wear and tear by running more frequently at lower speeds.

96% AFUE – High Efficiency – Two-Stage Furnace

• A two-stage furnace operates at two different levels of heating output: a lower stage (about 60–70% capacity) for mild heating needs, and a higher stage (100% capacity) for colder conditions. Most of the time, the furnace runs on the lower stage, providing more consistent heating and reducing energy consumption. When it gets colder, it switches to the higher stage to provide additional warmth. This design enhances energy efficiency, improves comfort by minimizing temperature swings, and reduces wear on the system compared to single-stage furnaces.

95% AFUE – High Efficiency – Single-Stage Furnace

• A single-stage furnace operates at one heating capacity: 100%. It either runs at full power or is completely off, meaning it cycles on and off more frequently to maintain the desired temperature. While this type of furnace is typically less expensive upfront, it can lead to less efficient energy usage and more noticeable temperature fluctuations compared to two-stage or modulating furnaces. It’s suitable for smaller homes or areas with mild climates where advanced heating control isn’t as crucial.

80% AFUE – Low Efficiency – Single-Stage Furnace

• All 80% efficiency furnaces are single-stage furnaces that only operate in one mode, either on or off. These are being phased out by the federal government due to their low efficiency.
  • 80% efficient furnaces are being phased out primarily due to more stringent energy efficiency standards and the push for more environmentally friendly options. These furnaces lose 20% of energy during operation, which contributes to higher fuel consumption and increased greenhouse gas emissions. As energy efficiency becomes a key focus for both homeowners and regulatory bodies, higher efficiency furnaces (like 95% or above) are being encouraged because they offer better energy savings, reduce carbon footprints, and meet modern energy standards designed to lower overall energy consumption.

The Efficiency of Boilers

Boilers have efficiency ratings, which are typically expressed as AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). The AFUE measures how efficiently a boiler converts fuel into heat:

• High-Efficiency Boilers: Condensing boilers can achieve AFUE ratings of 90% or higher by capturing additional heat from exhaust gases, making them much more efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional models.
• Standard Boilers: Usually have an AFUE rating between 80–85%, meaning 80–85% of the fuel is converted into heat, with the rest lost. Higher efficiency ratings lead to better energy savings.

The Efficiency of Ductless Systems

Ductless systems, such as mini-splits, are known for their high efficiency. Their SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for cooling can range from 16 to over 30, and their HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) for heating is typically between 8 and 12.

These systems are often much more efficient than traditional HVAC systems because they avoid energy losses associated with ductwork. Their ability to provide zoned heating and cooling also improves overall energy usage, making them a popular choice for both energy savings and comfort.

The Efficiency of Heat Pumps

A heat pump is an HVAC system that provides both heating and cooling by transferring heat between the indoors and outdoors. In cooling mode, it works like an air conditioner by removing heat from the inside and releasing it outside. In heating mode, it reverses the process, pulling heat from the outside air (even in colder conditions) and transferring it indoors.

Heat pumps are highly efficient because they move heat rather than generate it, and they are often used in harsh climates for year-round comfort.