Warm Air Heating
Contents |
Introduction
Warm air heating is used in a variety of buildings where heating systems that use boilers or radiators are not suitable. While warm air heating systems can be used in a huge range of applications, they are particularly popular in large, non-domestic buildings such as factories and warehouses.
It is thought that we can trace warm air heating as far back as the 3rd century when the Roman Emperor Heliogabalus ruled and his palace was said to be heated with warm air. This was achieved through the use of a stove which was located in a brick chamber under the rooms of the palace. Air from outside was then channelled through ducts and then filtered through the palace, warming the rooms as it travelled.
Types of warm air heating
There are a number of different warm air heating systems which use a variety of techniques for warming the air. However, all of these systems push the warm air around a duct network using fans.
- Gas-Fired – this is the most popular type of warm air heating system and involves the use of a gas flame which cold air is drawn across.
- Air-to-Air Heat Pumps – these work in much the same way as air conditioning units, but can be inefficient.
- Heated Ventilation – this is usually a small heat source, so it is unsuitable for large buildings. It can involve an air-to-air heat pump, a wet heat exchanger or an electric-resistance heater.
- In-Ground Pre-Heating – this system uses warm air from underground, which is typically 8-12°C at depths below 1.5m. The air is drawn up through pipes and the pre-heated air is used in an air-source heat pump connected to the ventilation system.
Benefits of warm air heating
Warm air heating is a popular choice for a number of reasons, including:
- Reduced Fuel Usage – gas-fired warm air heating systems are particularly fuel-efficient, making them relatively inexpensive to run.
- Quick Warm-Up Times – a system that allows for quick warm-up times is particularly appealing for businesses where a large space needs to be heated to a comfortable level before staff arrive for work.
- Help to Prevent Damp – by moving hot air around a space, the likelihood of damp can be reduced, improving working conditions.
- Space Efficient – as there is no need for radiators to heat the space, warm air heating systems can be a good choice for factories or warehouses where space is precious.
- Quiet Operation – the ability to operate quietly is often important in buildings used for work. Warm air heating systems are typically much quieter than some other heating options.
Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki:
Featured articles and news
The 5 elements of seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu and shitsuke.
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.