What are the different types of central heating systems?

Understanding the various different types of central heating systems can be pivotal in choosing the best option for your building or property. Each system offers unique benefits and considerations. In this blog we’ll explain the diversity of central heating systems, unravelling their workings and helping you make informed decisions for efficient and comfortable heating solutions.

Different types of central heating systems

There are four main types of central heating systems available in the UK. It’s important to distinguish these systems from the fuel types (such as gas, oil, electricity etc.) used to generate heat within them.

Central heating systems themselves generate heat in a centralised location within a building or property and distribute it throughout the space via pipes, ducts or radiators. The heat source can be a boiler, furnace, heat pump or other centralised unit that heats water, air or another medium. This set-up enables consistent and adjustable heating throughout the building or property from a single point.

The four different types of central heating systems include:

Wet system

A wet heating system distributes heated water throughout your home or building. This type of heating system relies on using:

A boiler – heats the water to a desired temperature.
Pipes – the heated water is then circulated through pipes installed in floors or walls, or via radiators throughout the building.
Heat emission – this heat from the circulating water is emitted into the rooms, warming the space.
Return – once cooled, the water returns to the boiler to be reheated and recirculated.

From amongst the different types of central heating systems, wet systems are generally the most cost effective and efficient way to provide heat and hot water because they provide even heat distribution. These systems also allow for independent control of settings in different areas of the property. The 2021-2022 English Housing Survey reports that 89% of UK homes use boiler systems with radiators, with oil or gas as their fuel source.

Warm air system

In contrast to a wet system, a warm air system uses the circulation of warm air to distribute heat. The key components of this type of central heating system are:

A heat source – typically a furnace or heat exchanger (i.e. a device transferring heat between fluids) to heat the air to a desired temperature.
Air distribution – the heated air is then pushed through an air duct system using a fan or blower system.
Grates – the heated air is released into individual rooms or areas through grates or vents located in floors, walls or ceilings.
Return – once the air cools down, it returns to the furnace or heat exchanger via return ducts to be reheated and recirculated.

The principal benefit of warm air heating systems is their ability to quickly distribute heat throughout a building. Similar to other types of central heating systems, they can be powered by a variety of different sources, including natural gas, oil, electricity or even solar energy. These systems are often found in both residential and commercial buildings and can provide both heating and sometimes cooling functions through the same ductwork system, known as a forced-air system.

Storage heater system

A storage heater system uses electricity to take advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs. The main features of this type of central heating system include:

Storage units – electric heaters that contain bricks or other dense materials capable of storing heat. During the off-peak period (usually at night), electricity is used to heat up these bricks.
Heat retention – once the bricks are heated, they retain the heat for an extended period during the day. This stored heat is slowly released into the room, emitting continuous warmth even when the electricity is turned off.
Controls – modern storage heaters include built-in controls or timers that allow users to adjust the amount of heat stored and released to match occupants’ heating needs and lifestyle.
Supplementary heating – some storage heater systems may also include instant electric heaters for on-demand heating when additional warmth is needed or during peak hours.

Storage heater systems are known for their energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. They’re commonly used in homes, especially in areas where access to natural gas or other heating fuels may be limited or costly. However, their effectiveness can vary depending on factors such as the insulation of the heater itself (newer models offer better levels of insulation), the size of the property and, of course, user behaviour. It’s worth noting that updating your older storage heater system to a high heat retention model can help improve the Energy Performance Certificate rating of your building or property.

District heating system

A district heating system is a centralised network that distributes heat that has been produced in a central location to a network of buildings or properties in order to provide space heating and hot water. This type of central heating system consists of:

A central heat source – a heat and power plant, biomass plant or waste-to-energy plant to generate heat
District heating network – a network of insulated pipes to carry the hot water
Heat substations – heat distribution control systems in the building or property use heat exchangers to transfer the heat to the building’s own heating system which distributes it to radiators, underfloor heating or hot water systems.

District heating systems are efficient because they centralise heat production, enabling economies of scale and efficient use of primary energy sources. They can utilise waste heat from industrial processes or power generation, improving overall energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to individual heating systems. In alignment with the government’s initiative for a low-carbon lifestyle, the Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) has been made available for the development of new and existing low and zero-carbon heat networks. It aims to expand and develop the heat network market while tackling challenges in decarbonising the UK’s heat sector.

What is the best type of heating system for your home or building?

When deciding on the best heating system for your home or building, several factors need to be considered.

Location – this is important, as it determines the availability and cost-effectiveness of different energy sources. For example, being connected to the grid guarantees access to fuel sources such as gas and electricity, or heating systems like district heating.
Number of occupants – taking into consideration how many people use a space, as well as their preferences and needs is essential. Some people may prefer floor heating, while others may prioritise the convenience of a warm air system.
Lifestyle – this factor influences the number of hours and timing of when heating and hot water is required. In addition, it is essential to assess the level of insulation and energy efficiency of your building or home to ensure the system meets heating demands without excessive energy consumption.

Ultimately, the best heating system balances these factors to provide reliable warmth while aligning with environmental and economic considerations unique to your location and building characteristics.

Paine Manwaring is an established, professional and highly experienced supplier of plumbing, heating and electrical services to domestic and commercial customers throughout Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire.

For more information about the heating, plumbing and electrical services which we provide for both homes and businesses get in touch with a member of our expert and friendly team today on 01903 237522 or enquiries@painemanwaring.co.uk (Worthing) or 01243 784711 or info@painemanwaring.co.uk (Chichester).