Are Induction Furnaces Cheaper to Operate Than Forced Air?

General Information

• Forced-air furnaces are a common part of a heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system for home use. Induction furnaces are used in industrial manufacturing applications to heat, harden or soften metal. Radiant heat can be used in your home through heated flooring systems.

Forced-Air System

• A forced-air furnace is part of an HVAC system that also includes air conditioning. It includes a forced-air furnace and ductwork that sends heat or air to rooms. Once the thermostat registers that the rooms are below a comfortable temperature, the heating element or heat pump turns on to send heat through the ductwork to the rooms. Heat continues to flow until the desired temperature is met and the system automatically turns off.

Induction Heating

• Induction heating is a process that produces heat by inducing electrical currents within a specific material, such as coils. Induction heating includes
  an induction furnace that serves as the main power source that generates the power frequency. The system also includes matching components, a copper tube coil assembly, a water cooling system and a material handling method. The coil is cooled by water in a cooling tower. Induction heating is used to heat an item that is surrounded by the coil, making it useful in manufacturing applications.

Induction Heating Efficiency

• Induction heating is a no-contact type of heating that is environmentally sound and consistent. Heating is generated at a specified area, making induction heating more efficient than other manufacturing heating methods. Induction heating can be up to 90 percent energy-efficient, in contrast with 45 percent efficiency in batch furnaces.

Radiant Heating

• Radiant heating is similar to induction heating because it uses tubing to provide heat. Water-filled tubes are placed in the floor or walls. The water is heated in a boiler. The temperature is regulated through zoning valves that can be adjusted to increase or decrease the heat flow.

Cost

• Radiant heating is often more energy efficient than forced-air furnaces because energy is not lost through ducts as it is with forced-air furnaces. A typical 1,500 square foot home with a 70 percent system delivery efficiency costs $783 a year to heat, assuming a $.04015 rate per kWh. This amount would be higher if the cost of electricity in your area is higher. Radiant heating can cost 25 to 50 percent less to operate. Factors such as the amount of heat loss, insulation level and an inefficient water boiler can decrease this rate.