It can be hard to let go of your old heating system, especially when you don’t know much about the new options available. Although, it can be exciting to explore the variety of different heating technologies that are available as replacement options. There are a variety of heating systems available on the market, in different sizes and models to suit any home. If you’re thinking of installing or replacing a heating system, it’s best to consult with a professional HVAC company for more information.
1. Furnace (forced air distribution system)
Furnaces work by heating air and then distributing it throughout a home using a series of ducts. Furnaces can be powered by different types of fuel, including electricity, propane, or oil, but natural gas is the most common type of fuel used in furnaces in the United States. Gas furnaces are better than other heating systems because the air conditioner can use the ductwork in the summer.
2. Boiler (Radiator distribution system)
Boilers are another type of heating system that uses hot water or steam to heat your home through pipes. While they are more expensive to install, they can be more efficient than other systems and allow you to practice zoned heating and cooling. By generating the heat in a central area of the home, furnaces and boilers make it possible to distribute the heat more evenly throughout the entire house, which is why they’re known as central heating systems.
3. Heat Pump
Heat pumps are a great way to heat and cool your home. They use refrigerant and electricity to transfer heat, which is more efficient than generating heat directly like a gas furnace. Since they are often more efficient than other types of heating systems, they work best in moderate climates where temperatures infrequently drop below freezing.
4. Hybrid Heating
Hybrid heating is a combination of a heat pump and a gas furnace, providing a more efficient way to heat your home. The heat pump is designed to operate most of the time to heat and cool your home. However, during extreme temperatures, the furnace will automatically kick on to help maintain a comfortable temperature. When you use both systems, it significantly reduces the strain on each one, meaning you won’t need to replace or repair them as often.
5. Ductless Mini-Splits
By getting rid of the need for tons of ductwork, mini-split units give you a complete HVAC system with its own thermostat. Ductless mini-splits are perfect for homes that don’t have enough space for a traditional central system or don’t have enough need for a traditional central system, and they’re a great option for individuals who want. This is very helpful in larger homes and add-on areas that do not have ductwork installed.
6. Radiant Heating
Radiant heating sends hot water or electricity through special tubes located in the floor and sometimes in the ceilings or walls. The heat can be generated by the following types of fuels: oil, gas, or electricity. The radiant heating distribution system can last many years, but repairs can become more costly if there are major problems with the system. The lifespan of radiant heat is dependent on how it is used and not on its heat source system.
7. Baseboard Heaters
Typically, baseboard heaters are installed as an addition to an installed heating system for added comfort. Speak with your HVAC contractor you’ll find more information on baseboard heaters.