Homeowners that are looking to upgrade their current heating systems may find it challenging to figure out which system best suits their needs. While some homeowners decide to install radiant heating systems in their homes, there are many other options available that most have never heard of. Whether you choose a traditional system or go a more unconventional route, it’s important to consider the different heating possibilities.
The Guide to Heating Your Home
Each heating system comes with its pros and cons depending on your budget and personal preferences. Read on for seven of the most common types of heating systems.
1. Forced Air System
Forced air systems are a popular heating solution for many homeowners. A forced-air system circulates air throughout the home via a large fan, which is typically housed in an attic or a ceiling. These systems require air to be filtered for dust and small particles, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. With proper upkeep and regular maintenance checks, forced air systems can provide effective heating to your home for many years. If you’re concerned about cost and energy efficiency, look into adding radiant panels or a heat-pump system to supplement your existing forced-air system.
2. Radiant Heat System
Radiant heating systems are another heating solution to consider for your home. These systems circulate water through pipes embedded in your floors or ceilings. The heat is then distributed through convection, radiating from your floor or ceiling to warm up your room.
Since radiant heat warms both people and objects rather than moving air around, it’s better for home energy conservation in cold climates, where it’s best to keep rooms at a constant temperature during changing weather conditions. Electric floor heating is also ideal for areas with wooden floors or surfaces susceptible to being heated unevenly. Radiant heating systems are less common than forced-air systems because they are more expensive to install, though more efficient in their energy use.
3. Steam Radiator
Another heating system to consider is the steam radiator. With this heating solution, a boiler produces water that becomes steam when it’s pressurized. This high-pressure steam then travels through pipes, heating air, or other materials along its path to radiate heat throughout a house. Steam radiators are primarily used in residential homes, especially in colder climates where better energy efficiency is desired.
4. Warm Air Furnace
A warm-air furnace is also an effective heating system for homes as it produces warm air from using a fan and a heater. This type of heating system is a little old-fashioned in that it heats rooms or areas of a house by sending heated air through ductwork. Since warm air furnaces don’t require vents for combustion, they are considered safer than their gas-powered counterparts.
5. Geothermal Heat Pump
There are several types of home heating systems that are considered green, but geothermal heat pumps are certainly among the top contenders. If you want to heat your house without relying on fossil fuels, geothermal heat pumps are an excellent alternative. Geothermal heat pumps draw energy from renewable sources like air and groundwater to create warm air for your home and cool air in warmer months. While these systems do require an initial investment, they’re highly cost-effective over time.
6. Hot Water Boiler
A hot water boiler is an additional type of domestic central heating system, used to heat water and provide domestic hot water. The energy source used can be either electricity or gas. The heat produced from burning fuel is then transferred to a heat exchanger (often called an economizer), where it heats water flowing through it. This heated water is then circulated through radiators within your home while warming it.
7. Infrared Heater
Infrared heaters are great for warming cold hands or toes on chilly winter days, but they can also heat an entire room. These units have no exposed element, so there’s less chance of burning yourself if you reach for something on its surface. These systems are also more cost-effective than other options, as they emit radiant heat rather than releasing hot air that warms up after it leaves a fan or element.
Make sure your home stays warm and cozy as the colder months approach. Whether you opt for traditional heating systems or consider alternate ones, be sure to keep this guide in mind.
