Heating and cooling systems may be classified as central or local. Central heating and cooling is the most standard method, and is defined by a system that produces warmth or cool in 1 central area and then distributes it throughout the home. There are many types of systems that work as central systems, from traditional split systems to packaged product systems. Products typically used in central heating and cooling systems include:

• Heat Pumps
• Air Conditioners
• Gas Furnaces
• Fan Coils
• Evaporator Coils
• Controls and Thermostats

Heating systems keep your home warm and comfortable. If you live in a particularly cold climate, the function of your heating system is a high priority. Most central heating and cooling systems are classified as forced air systems, because they send air through ductwork for distribution. The ductwork can contain products that filter or clean the air.nnRadiant systems create heat and deliver it components such as radiators that radiate the heat into the home. Boilers are a traditional radiant heat source.nnTypical heating products include:

• Heat Pumps
• Gas Furnaces
• Fan Coils

Whole-home air conditioning systems are central systems that rely on ducts to deliver cooled air throughout the home. An air-conditioning system provides cooling, ventilation, humidity control and even heating (if using a Heat Pump) for a home. Air conditioning units cool refrigerants and deliver them to evaporator coils, which dissipate the refrigerant and blow it into ducts for delivery throughout the home.nnProducts such as room air conditioners or "window shakers" are local cooling options for smaller areas within homes. Instead of delivering cooled refrigerant to a coil and then to ductwork, a room air conditioner contains all the components in a single unit and blows air directly into a room.nnAir-conditioned homes often have sealed windows, because open windows would disrupt the attempts of the control system to maintain constant temperature.nnTypical air conditioning products include:

• Heat Pumps
• Central Air Conditioners
• Evaporator Coils
• Room Air Conditioner

The term "thermostat" commonly refers to any unit that controls the operation of a heating and cooling system. Thermostats are used to turn on heating or cooling systems to bring the home to a set temperature. In addition to basic temperature control, programmable thermostats can be used to manage the timing of the system's functions, which can control overall energy use and costs.

Learn more about the many aspects of heating and cooling, including the types of systems available, how to find the ideal system for your home, how health and air quality impact your home, how energy efficiency can save you money, how heating and cooling impacts the environment, and the many terms and phrases of heating and cooling