Home Style Green - Sustainable Design and Building (Heating)
One of the most common questions I get asked is "what's the best form of heating?"
Much to the frustration of most people, I usually answer "it depends…" The best type of heater for you and your home does depend on many factors, however there are some guiding principles that apply to all cases.
  1. The most sustainable form of heating is passive
  2. The second most sustainable form of heating is wood
  3. Heat pumps (split-system, reverse-cycle air conditioners) are single room heaters
  4. Homes with solid fuel burners are generally warmer than those with electric heating
  5. Your roof won't heat your home
  6. Water is much better at moving heat around then air it
  7. Insulation is always the first step
  8. Insulation is not heating
Useful links:
CCANZ design guide:
Otago Univserity study on heating potential of home ventilation systems:
Direct download: 17_Heating_Guidelines.mp3
Category:Heating -- posted at: 12:55pm NZDT

In today's cast, I complete our introduction to heating systems with a look at central heating. 

Common to all central heating systems are three main components:

1. The fuel

2. The engine or heater

3. The distribution system - pipes, ducts and outlets

There are two main mediums for transfering heat. Air is common with gas-fired heaters and large ducts but is not as effective as water based systems.

Air ducts can lose up to 1 degree per m of duct. 

Heating that is not true central heating includes inslab or undertile electric element heating, heat transfer and ventilation system. 

Direct download: 5_Central_Heating.mp3
Category:Heating -- posted at: 7:31am NZDT

1