Whether you need to replace your furnace because it's outdated or your old one has officially gone out and you need a replacement, it can be difficult to determine which type of furnace is right for your home. While you should always contact an HVAC company to ask about the different types of furnace installation services they offer, you can also do a little bit of your own research to determine which make and model is right for you.

Central Heat

By far, the most popular choice among homeowners in the United States for the furnace is a central heating system. The systems work hand-in-hand with the central air conditioning system, which also utilizes ductwork to send warm air throughout your home. They're relatively easy to install and inexpensive to maintain and last for anywhere from 18 to 20 years. They're a nice middle-of-the-road option for homeowners that want maximum efficiency at minimal cost.

Boiler

Although not nearly as popular as it used to be, boilers are still seen in older apartment buildings and office spaces. This system works by literally heating up the water and running the steam through a series of pipes throughout the rooms. While the radiant heating is significantly more comfortable than most other systems on this list, they're not very energy efficient and require pipes to be visible inside the room to operate efficiently. Unless you're into a more industrial aesthetic for your space, you should ask your contractor about a different type of furnace installation.

Ductless Mini-Split

If you don't need to heat up a very big space or you're looking to just expand onto your current system, a ductless mini-split may be exactly what you need. These standalone systems deviate the hot air from the existing set up to warm up an auxiliary space, such as a garage that's been converted into an office or even an outdoor shed. They're not very expensive, and they require almost no maintenance, so it's perfect for an expansion or even a small studio apartment.

Geothermal

One of the most recent innovations to hit the market today is geothermal energy. While harnessing the power from the earth is nothing new, a geothermal system can actually replace both your furnace and air conditioning system by running pipes to the ground and using the Earth's energy to heat and cool your air. Installation is expensive, but maintenance and energy costs are virtually nonexistent, and since it can last for 20 to 50 years, you'll most likely forget that it's even there once you pay the initial fee.  

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