Welcome to the Rural Energy "S" Glossary Terms!

A valve in heating systems that opens automatically to release excess pressure, preventing damage or hazards.

A measure of the efficiency of heat pumps, representing the ratio of heating output to energy input over an entire heating season.

The total cooling of a central unitary air conditioner or unitary heat pump in Btu’s during its normal annual usage period for cooling divided by the total electric energy input in watt-hours during the same period.

Heat that can be measured or felt. Sensible heat always causes a temperature rise.

The desired temperature set by the user on a thermostat or heating control system.

The temperature to which a thermostat is set to result in a desired heated space temperature.

A sine wave is a smooth, continuous waveform that oscillates between positive and negative values, representing a pure form of alternating current (AC) electricity. In the context of generators, a "pure sine wave" output refers to electrical power that closely resembles the standard utility grid power, providing stable and reliable electricity without distortion or fluctuations. This high-quality power output is essential for sensitive electronic devices and appliances, ensuring their proper operation and longevity.

The procedure a heating contractor goes through to determine how large a furnace (measured in BTUH) is needed to heat a house efficiently.

A type of radiant heating system installed beneath concrete slabs to provide even and efficient heating for floors.

A thermostat equipped with advanced features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and programmable schedules for efficient heating control.

Water which contains little or no calcium or magnesium salts, or water from which scale forming impurities have been removed or reduced.

A portable heating device designed to heat a small area or room, commonly used for supplemental heating.

Heat Pump or air conditioning installation, which places condensing unit outside or away from evaporator. These unit are connected together by a supply and return refrigerant lines.

A type of boiler that uses steam as the primary heat carrier to provide heating or power generation.

A stove insert is designed to fit into an existing or new hole/opening in a wall or fireplace. The face of the stove usually sits flush or slightly proud of the wall. These types of stoves can give a neat finish, especially if you do not want the stove to take up space in the room

The heated or conditioned air delivered from heating systems to various zones or rooms within a building.