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Which are the three major configurations of furnaces?

  1. Up-flow, down-flow and lowboy

  2. Up-flow, down-flow and horizontal

  3. Up-flow, down-flow and cross-flow

  4. None of these is correct

The correct answer is: Up-flow, down-flow and horizontal

The three major configurations of furnaces are indeed up-flow, down-flow, and horizontal. Up-flow refers to a furnace design where air is drawn from the space below the furnace, heated, and then distributed upwards through ducts into the living areas. This configuration is ideal for homes with basements, as it effectively utilizes the available space for air movement. Down-flow systems, on the other hand, operate by pulling air in from above the furnace and directing it downwards into the ductwork. This is commonly used in situations where the furnace is installed in a basement or an attic and is advantageous for directing warm air into lower areas of the home. Horizontal furnaces are designed to accommodate spaces with limited vertical clearance, such as low crawl spaces or tight-fitting installations. They typically have side ducts for air return and supply, making them versatile for various applications where height is restricted. These three configurations accommodate different installation scenarios and building designs, allowing for effective heating based on the specific layout and airflow requirements of a home.