Types of Home Heating Systems

Hot Water Baseboard System
Similar to radiant heat, this system uses hot water heated by a boiler to heat a space by a combination of radiation and convection.

Distribution

Hot water heated by boiler and piped to "fin-tube" baseboard units mounted along walls. The fins increase the surface area of heat dissipation making the unit more efficient.

Air is distributed by convection as air rises and is heated by the baseboard unit.

Fuel Sources

Boiler may be fueled by natural gas, propane, oil or electricity

Advantages

Energy efficient

Quiet

Close temperature control

Disadvantages

Baseboard radiation / convection units must remain unobstructed and can provide challenges in furniture placement and drape design.

Slow temperature increase.

Air conditioning requires a separate ductwork distribution and cooling system.