One of the trials that many homeowners face is trying to find the best heating system for their house. Should you go with electric baseboard heat or heating oil with a tank outside?
Even if you have a basic understanding of how heating systems work, you may not know which will work best in your home. Especially in newer homes, understanding which type of heating system can be installed can be downright overwhelming.
Where you live, the age of your home and several other factors determine the type of heating system you can install. The key is understanding your options and which heating systems work best in your type of home.
To make the decision a little easier, we’ve broken down some of the most common types of heating systems below:
Boilers
A common misconception is that boilers and furnaces are the same thing. However, this is not the case as they are two totally different heating systems. Boilers require a fuel source in order to heat the water within the system. Of course, the fuel source does vary on the type of boiler it is. For example, some boilers use electricity, while others require natural gas or propane.
Radiant Heat Systems
Radiant heat systems are able to transfer heat without the need for air ducts. This is a great option for those who suffer from allergies. So, if you’re looking for an allergy-free way to heat your home, look no further than radiant heat systems.
Furnaces
Many homeowners these days go with furnaces, which are one of the most popular and common heating systems today. There are two types of furnaces to choose from; gas or electric.
Furnaces distribute heat by blowing it through the air ducts of your house. Furnaces, also referred to as a forced air heating system, require energy sources such as gas, electricity and heating oil.
If you want to find the best furnace for your home, check the AFUE rating. If the rating is at least 80 or above, then you’ll have an efficient system. Also, the higher the rating is, the more you’ll be able to save on your bills.
Deciding which heating system is best isn’t always easy. If you’e still unsure, why not enlist the help of an HVAC professional. They can review the pros and cons of each type, explain their functionality and help you make an educated final decision.
