How a Central Gas Furnace Works

Simply put, a central gas heating system creates a cycle of increasing the temperature of cooler air. Here is the simple version:

Burning propane or natural gas generates heat in the furnace’s burner.
The heat produced passes through a heat exchanger, making it hot.
Air from the home’s ductwork is blown over the heat exchanger, warming the air.
The furnace’s blower then forces the heated air into the supply ductwork, distributing it throughout the home.

Parts of a Central Gas Furnace

Of course, the central heating system components must work together to keep you comfortable.

Temperature Control – The temperature control, which is regulated by the furnace control board, turns on the ignition switch and starts the heating process when the thermostat or control system calls for heat.
Draft Induced Fan – The draft induced fan draws air into the burner assembly. The air also allows the burners to warm the heat exchanger then is exhausted outside of the home.
Gas Burners – When the thermostat or control system calls for heat, the gas burners valves are open to deliver gas and burn fuel.
Ignition switch – Gas flows over the igniter to establish a flame. This flame is drawn through the burners and used to heat the heat exchanger.
Heat exchanger – The part of a gas furnace that adds heat to the indoor air. The gas combusts inside the heat exchanger, creating heat that is used to heat the passing air. The design of the heat exchanger can add energy efficient operation of a gas furnace.
Draft-Induced Fan – Draws air into the burner assembly. The air allows the burners to warm the heat exchanger.
Blower Fan – Uses the return venting to blow air over the hot heat exchanger. The conditioned air is then sent throughout your home via ductwork. Some furnace models offer a blower fan that can run at multiple speeds to improve efficiency.
Flue – A flue or chimney acts as an exhaust for gaseous by-products of combustion used to create heat.

Gas furnaces come in a variety of shapes to fit your space. However, they can also be categorized by one of the following:

Non-condensing furnaces – vent exhaust gases out of the home, typically through the roof.
Condensing furnaces – uses a second heat exchanger to heat the air from condensed exhaust gases to reach higher efficiencies.
A modulating gas furnace – continuously regulates the amount of fuel burned to maintain the set temperature of your thermostat. This modulating component can minimize indoor temperature fluctuations.