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If you live in a cold climate, you know how important it is to install an efficient heating system at home. Unfortunately, many of these heating mechanisms are either outdated or too expensive.
So, if you wish to save on your energy bills and switch to a smarter heating system, you need to be aware of the different types of heating methods available and which one will work best for you. So, come on, let’s get started!
1. General Heating System Considerations
Before deciding on a heating system for your house, you need to know the different fuel sources available and the amount of space that you want to be heated.
There are three main fuel sources: electricity, wood, and natural gas (LPG).
Again, you need to figure out which source is the most cost-efficient and whether your local authorities allow that specific type of source to be utilised for private heating systems or not.
For example, many environmentally-conscious areas may not allow wood to be used as a source of fuel.
When it comes to the amount of space you need to heat, you can go for either a central heating system or room heating.
If you want to heat the entire household at once, it is better to opt for a central system. But if you wish to save money and heat only one room at a time, getting a room heater would be the better choice.
2. Central vs Electric Heating System
A central heating system is also known as a wet heating system because it generates heat through traditional boilers or heat pumps.
These systems dissipate water and then send the hot water to heat your household through radiators or underfloor heating systems.
Most commonly, central heating systems use boiler systems that are fueled by natural gas or LPG, or biomass boilers. Many central heating systems also use heat pumps that generate heat through an air or ground source.
Conversely, electric heating systems use electricity to heat your room. Unlike central heating systems, electric systems can only heat a small area or room at a time. This is typically done through electric storage heaters or electric radiators.
Electric storage heaters can store high amounts of heat in their internal clay storage blocks, whereas electric radiators have to operate from a main power supply to convert energy into heat.
3. Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are affordable, easy to operate, and portable, so they can be easily carried from one room to another.
A portable heater is an affordable solution if your house or room is small and you need to heat it for a short period.
They don’t require installation. Just plug it into an electrical socket. This makes them a great option for those on a tight budget or living in a rented place.
You can also move the portable heater from one room to another to avoid unnecessary heating of rooms that are not occupied in the house.
Moreover, the average cost of a portable heater is only about $30, which makes it one of the best options for people looking to heat their homes without spending too much.
Choose one with automatic tip-over protection, automatic shut-off, and a cool-to-touch body. Better go for one that can be used even overnight.
4. Heat Pump Hydronic Systems
Typically, a hydronic heating system circulates hot water through radiator panels either within the room or underneath the floor.
It takes in the air from outside and converts it into hot water, which is then flown into special pipes to provide a radiator-based heating system throughout the house.
Hydronic heating systems are one of the best options for people who want an energy-efficient solution to their heating problems. It’s also the preferred heating choice for households that have patients suffering from respiratory issues like asthma or COPD.
However, if you’re planning to install a heat pump hydronic system in your house, you need to get in touch with a professional and check whether your house has proper insulation for the pipes.
This system also requires a significant initial investment, so be ready to splurge. But it will last for a very long time.
5. Low-Carbon Heating Systems
Low-carbon heating systems comprise heat pumps and solar water heating systems because they generate affordable rates of electric bills and are more efficient than conventional heating systems.
These don’t use carbon-based fossil fuels to generate heat, reducing carbon footprint. You can combine a low-carbon heating system with sustainable options like solar panels to further reduce your carbon footprint and electricity bills.
Conclusion
While choosing the right heating system for your home, consider your specific needs, the house’s existing condition, and your budget. This will help you figure out the best-suited option in no time!
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