The Different Types of Heating Systems - Which is Right for Your Home?
Your climate and your home size will impact what type of heating system you choose. You may also have other factors in mind like maintenance costs, fuel availability and efficiency.
The three main types of home heating systems are furnaces, boilers and heat pumps. Some combine heating with air conditioning (AC). Others distribute heat via ductwork.
Furnace
Furnaces heat air using fuel, electricity or both and then distribute that heated air through ducts to different rooms of the house. This type of system can be controlled by a thermostat and is generally very easy to install. Some homeowners prefer gas furnaces since they work more quickly and efficiently. However, gas furnaces require a gas line, which can add to the cost of installation and can increase your heating bills. They also produce carbon monoxide which can build up in your home if there are any problems with the system.
Some furnaces can be equipped with a two-stage valve that allows the blower to operate at reduced capacity, which reduces your energy costs. However, electric furnaces can dry out the air in your home and may require humidifiers to combat this. Furnaces should be properly cleaned and maintained to avoid problems such as flammable grime building up in your ductwork, carbon monoxide poisoning and gas leaks.
Boiler
This system uses the remarkable ability of water to absorb and transport heat all through your home. Boilers heat up to a specific temperature and then push that heated water through specialized lines either to radiant tubing for in floor heating or to radiators positioned in rooms throughout the house.
Conventional boiler systems, unlike combis, store the hot water they produce in a tank and supply it on demand. These units are better suited to larger homes with high demands for hot water. They also require more specialized maintenance and if the tank leaks it will result in serious damage.
Another drawback to conventional boiler systems is that they do not distribute air and thus cannot provide cooling. They also use more fuel than forced air furnaces and are not as efficient. However, they have the advantage of improving indoor air quality because they do not circulate dust and other debris through HVAC ductwork. They are also generally more cost effective than forced air furnaces.
Radiant Heating
Many homeowners are choosing radiant heating as a way to heat their homes. This system can be more expensive to install than a furnace, boiler or forced air, but it can save money on energy bills over time. There are a few things to keep in mind before installing this system, however.
First, make sure that your home has proper insulation levels, as this is key to a comfortable home. In addition, you’ll need to consider the size of your home and how often it will be used.
Radiant systems are efficient and quiet, as they avoid the duct leakage and energy loss that can occur in forced air systems. Additionally, radiant heat is safer and healthier than traditional forced air systems, as it doesn’t recirculate allergens. Radiant systems also require a boiler to supply the hot water that provides comfort, so this can add to the initial project cost. However, radiant heating can be installed without replacing your flooring and is available in both electric and hydronic options.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are more efficient than furnaces, and they can also be used for cooling in summer. They scavenge heat from the air or, in some cases (ground source heat pumps), water vapor in the ground, even in very cold climates.
Because they use a fraction of the electricity or gas that other systems require to convert their energy source into heat, they are much more energy-efficient and can help you reduce your carbon footprint. However, they don’t function as well in very cold weather, and you will need an additional heating source for subzero temperatures.
The best type of heating system for your home depends on a number of factors, including the climate in your region and the cost of fuel. A qualified professional can help you decide which heating system is right for your home. They can also inspect your ductwork to ensure there are no leaks that could compromise your home’s comfort and efficiency.