Warm Air Heating - should you convert to central heating?

Warm air heating systems in the UK aren’t terribly commonplace, and many of these systems are being replaced with central heating.  But do you really need to convert it completely, or is it just time for an update?

How do warm air systems work?

Warm air systems work by drawing cold external air in through ducts.  This is then pulled into a warm air heating unit and blown across a heat exchanger by an electric fan.  The warmed air is circulated around the rooms via ducts, with vents in each room instead of radiators.

What are the disadvantages?

One of the main criticisms of warm air heating systems is that rooms can be heated unevenly, creating some spots which are warmer than others.  It can also be the case that pollen and allergens are drawn in with the air from outside, so if you are an allergy sufferer, this type of heating may irritate your allergies.  It has also been said that the ducts take up wall space and the systems can be noisy, so this is something to consider, particularly if wall space is precious in your home.

But what are the advantages?

It has to be said that many of the above criticisms are now seen as outdated.  Indeed, in America, warm air heating is often the heating system of choice!  Modern systems now have electronic controls which provide stable room temperatures and a quieter operation.  They also often feature an electronic filtration system which cuts down on the allergens being passed into your home, removing up to 95% of particles, and have improved fuel efficiency.  It may be time to ask your professional plumber to update, rather than replace, your warm air heating system!

Everything AND the kitchen sink!

When it comes to kitchen design, a sink isn’t just a sink – there’s lots of choice for the modern kitchen nowadays, and this choice doesn’t revolve around washing up either!  If you’re having a professional plumber remodel your kitchen, here are some novel sink ideas to consider:

Oversized kitchen sinks

Does exactly what it says on the tin: these oversized sinks are perfect for big families or those that like entertaining.  Got a large wok or baking tray that needs washing?  Stick it in your oversized singular bowl sink, or opt for an extra wide double sink!

Stone bowl sinks

The durability of stone means that it is becoming an increasingly popular material of choice for kitchen sinks.  Stone sinks also add form and style to a kitchen, often coming in two types: vintage farmhouse-style or boutique-hotel-type stone bowl prep sinks – something, therefore, for the traditional and the contemporary.

Staging sinks

What could offer better convenience than a sink with interchangeable preparation areas?  Colanders which fit neatly over the side of the sink to keep hands free, stepped side platforms for preparation of fresh produce and even in-built chopping boards: that’s exactly what staging sinks are all about.

Steamer sinks

The ultimate in kitchen gadgetry, combined sink-cook centres offer an integrated cooking vessel for steaming, poaching, boiling and blanching – perfect therefore for both healthy eating and serious home chefs!

Party sinks

Ok, so this sink’s probably not for everyone, but if you’re a serious entertainer, what could be more fun than a narrow  prep sink installed in an island countertop which can be filled with ice ready to store lemon and drinks?!  It really is time to ‘sink’ again when it comes to kitchen sinks!