The secret to a super warm home isn't in your heating system itself but in its design. The best heating system designs are modern, efficient, and provide more comfort when constantly adjusting your thermostat or firing up the fireplace. Also, having modern comfort systems is good for the environment.
Understand the Different Types of Systems to Heat A Home
Different heating systems range from the traditional forced-air system to the more efficient and environmentally friendly geothermal heating and cooling system. There are also radiant heating and hydro-air systems that use boilers to provide heat.
When choosing your home heating system, it is important to understand that all systems have pros and cons. Choosing a heating system depends on your needs, style, and comfort level with the different options.
Forced Air Systems: Traditional and Efficient Heating System Designs
These systems work by using a furnace or boiler to heat air that is then distributed throughout your home via ducts. The air is heated with either natural gas or oil. Forced air systems are economical because they can be controlled by a thermostat. It is also possible to control the temperature in each room of your house individually. Forced air systems are very reliable because they do not use electricity to operate, so you aren't at risk of power outages that may cause your heating system to fail during cold weather.
When choosing this type of heating system, it is important to know that you will need natural gas service or access to an available area for the storage of fuel. The fuels can vary between heating oil and gas to firewood and biomass.
Consider Heating Fuel and Energy Options
Several key differences between different heating systems and fuels are cost, efficiency, and environmental impact. The right fuel option depends on your needs and preferences. Some things to consider for heating fuels or energy when installing a new system include:
- Cost—The cost of installing a new heating system will vary depending on the type of fuel you use and the type of furnace you install. For example, over the life of an electric furnace, you may spend thousands more than a gas furnace with comparable efficiency.
- Efficiency—Heating systems are rated by their energy efficiency using the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating system. This rating is based on the amount of heat generated for every dollar spent on energy over a given period. Higher ratings mean your heating system is more efficient in comparison to similar units with lower ratings. It is important to consider that other design factors will affect the overall efficiency of your heating system.
- Environmental Impact—Some heating systems have a lower carbon footprint than others due to differences in manufacturing processes, sources of fuel, and emissions generated when in use.
Modern heating systems can also use a variety of energy solutions to provide you with a cost-effective system design that meets your needs.
When installing a new heating system, consider how it will work with your home. Selecting a modern heating system design is essential since you want to lower winter energy costs while maintaining the comfort of your home. Contact a heating service to discuss the best options for the specific needs of your home and the design of your new system.
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