Are you thinking about getting a heating system for your home? When it comes to heating, there are number of choices available today. Trying to decide which system is best for your home can seem daunting. In order to make the selection process easier to navigate, here is a rundown of the most common types of heating system.
#1 Forced Air Heating and Cooling Systems
One of the most popular HVAC systems is forced air. This one has a furnace and a blower fan that delivers warmed air into your home via a network of ducts. This is an excellent system since it can adjust the temperature quickly. The furnaces that power the forced air heating and cooling systems are fueled with gas, fuel oil, electricity, or liquid propane. An advantage of this HVAC system is that you can use it with humidifier equipment to improve your home’s comfort. Also, it can combine smooth cooling with heating capability, offering a lot of versatility to homeowners.
#2 Gravity Air Furnace Systems
Before forced air systems became popular, gravity air furnace systems were the go-to solution. These are no longer installed, but they continue to be found in older homes. This system’s principle is simple: a gravity air furnace in a basement heats the air, which rises into your living space.
This system is fueled by natural gas, electricity, or fuel oil. A major advantage of gravity air furnace systems is that these require little to no maintenance. The downside is that air can’t be filtered effectively.
#3 In-Floor Radiant Heating Systems
A modern approach to heating systems is complex in-floor radiant heating. It is distinct from other heating solutions because it heats objects and materials, like the flooring or furniture in your home. Most systems distribute heat with the help of hot water heated in a boiler or water heater. An in-floor radiant heating system is powered by a tubing system heated by a central boiler. This boiler is fueled by natural gas, electricity, or liquid propane. Radiant systems offer a lot of comfort and represent cost-effective solutions. The downside might be that the installation of in-floor systems can be labor intensive and lead to serious expenses.
#4 Traditional Radiator And Boiler Systems
Older homes still use this approach, and some say it can still meet a family’s needs with ease. This system features a central boiler that circulates steam or hot water via pipes to radiator units. The radiator units radiate heat throughout the room.
It is fueled by natural gas, fuel oil, electricity, or liquid propane. The downside of this system is that the radiator location may interfere with furniture placement. Also, this system can’t be combined with air conditioning.
#5 Heat Pump Heating Systems
This is the newest home heating technology, and many homeowners opt to install it. It uses a system similar to an air conditioner, and it can deliver reliable heat into your home. The main benefit is that it provides both heating and cooling. It is powered by electricity, but you can also find heat pump heating systems that function on natural gas.
Final Word
These are the five most common home heating systems. All can offer the comfort you’re looking for during winter, so choose a system that matches your budget and your home’s requirements.