| Central heating systems are one of the more | | | | throughout the structure. Units in the outlying |
| common standard heating systems used in public | | | | spaces such as ductwork, piping or radiators may |
| buildings and homes. These heating systems are | | | | be part of the system. |
| typically used in colder climates. The components | | | | In larger buildings, the furnace or boiler is placed in |
| of the system usually includes a heating unit such | | | | a central location, usually a furnace room, boiler |
| as a heat pump, furnace or boiler in a central | | | | room or mechanical room. Private homes may |
| location. | | | | have basement unit or closet called the furnace |
| The fuel for the heating unit can be oil, coal, | | | | room. Heat pumps may be located inside or |
| electricity, natural gas or other fuels. The central | | | | outside the home or building. They are sometimes |
| unit heats air, steam or water and disperses it | | | | placed on the flat roof of a building. |