Forced-air heating systems aren't right for everyone because they can be noisy, depending on the equipment location in the home, and they come with added maintenance for ductwork.

Heat sources are energy-efficient: Modern heating systems, such as an all-electric furnace and forced-air heating system, have an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) between 95% and 100% (according to Energy.gov). This means almost 100% of the fuel becomes heat for the home while 5% or less is lost.

How Does Warm Air Heating Work? Warm air heating systems typically work by drawing in cool air from the outside using a vent and warming it up by passing it over a gas flame or to a heat exchanger. The warm air is then circulated throughout the entire house through air ducts, vents or grills in each room.

Forced air heating relies on a furnace or heat pump to distribute warm air through a network of ducts, while central heating uses a central heating unit, such as a boiler, to circulate heated water or air through pipes or ducts to radiators, baseboard heaters, or underfloor heating systems.