Which system is one of the broad categories describing furnace heating systems?

One of the broad categories describing furnace heating systems is gravity warm-air furnaces. Gravity warm-air heating systems rely on the principle that warmer air rises and cooler air sinks, which creates a natural circulation of air within a space. This type of system typically uses a large furnace to heat the air and distribute it through ducts or vents by the force of gravity.

The functioning of gravity warm-air furnaces is simple and effective in many applications, especially in older buildings where ductwork is designed to take advantage of this natural movement of air. They often require less mechanical assistance compared to other types of heating systems, such as forced air systems.

While hydronic systems, radiant heat, and electric furnaces also serve as methods for heating, each of them falls into different categories of heating technologies. Hydronic systems use water to transfer heat, while radiant heat relies on infrared energy to warm objects directly in a space. Electric furnaces utilize electric resistance coils to generate heat. Each of these systems has its own benefits and application contexts, but gravity warm-air systems represent a distinct category that can effectively serve specific heating needs.