If we want to understand what modern central heating actually does, the clue is in the name. Years ago heating homes was accomplished by warming rooms by means of wood or coal fires. In 1855, the radiator was invented, and just 30 years later the thermostat was patented for use. Central heating systems enable us to utilise one point of power to warm an entire area. It’s a process that allows heat to distribute through your home (even under floors), usually through pipes from a generator or boiler. Think of it as ‘smart heating’ as most of the systems allow us to control the exact temperature as well as when we want it running.
Heating the nation
The vast majority of households in the UK have installed central heating in one form or another (only approximately 5% are without). If you’re one of the few that don’t have central heating, chances are you’re using more ‘local’ heating methods throughout your home that work independently. Central heating is vastly utilised by ‘wet systems’, the most common in the UK, but if you live in an older property you may find district, air or even storage heat systems.
The better deal?
The wet system remains the most popular in the UK as these boilers are still an efficient and cost-effective form of energy. Normally these are gas-powered but true to their name, this system uses water which is heated by a boiler and then disperses through a series of pipes into radiators.
We’ll always advise you of the best system based on your energy needs, but just like your car, your boiler needs a little TLC from time to time to get the best from it. Talk to us about giving your boiler a boost or alternatively have a chat with a member of our team about the best system for you.
