Types Of Home Heating Systems

Trying to decide which type of heating system to choose for your home can be overwhelming and we understand. Choosing a heating system is a big, complicated and expensive decision to make. But you don’t have to make the decision alone. Just take a look at this quick and easy guide to the top types of home heating systems and you should have a much clearer idea of what your options are and how they may be suited to your particular home:

• Furnaces: Furnaces are the most common type of home heating system in America. They work by heating air that is then circulated throughout the home through a system of ducts. The heat is often created by the burning of fuel such as oil or natural gas, but it can also be powered by electricity. Furnaces can range widely in their efficiency, typically landing somewhere between 59% and just above 98%. They can cost you anywhere from $2,500 to over $6,000 and they will typically last between 15 to 30 years.
• Boilers: Boilers are less commonly used in new homes but can still be found frequently in older buildings. They work by burning oil or natural gas in order to heat water or create steam which is then distributed through piping in your home to radiators or floor systems. Boilers also offer a wide range of efficiencies. Depending on how old the boiler is you can get anywhere from 50-90% efficiency from one. They are significantly more expensive than a furnace typically is, ranging in price from around $3,500 to more than $7,500. Like a furnace, a boiler will last you anywhere from 15 to 30 years on average.
• Heat Pumps: A heat pump is an air conditioning system that works in reverse. They pull heat from the air or ground and then distribute it around your home to warm it. They require very little energy to run and can also double as an air conditioner when the weather warms up. The only catch is that they are best suited for a more mild climate, as they are not as effective in extreme temperatures. The efficiency of a heat pump is measured in HSPF or Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. The HSPF of a typical heat pump ranges from 6.8 to 10. Keep in mind that the minimum HSPF for a device to earn the Energy Star label is 7.7. Heat Pumps can be costly, ranging in price from about $4,000 to more than $7,000, but their efficiency can potentially save you money in the long run. They typically last around 15 years.