In our last post, we discussed when to decide to replace an aging heater. But making the decision to replace a heating system is only step one. Now you must think about what type of heater to install.
“But aren’t all heaters basically the same?” you might ask. At one time, this was semi-true, but today you’ll find a range of heating systems available with unique features and methods of delivering comfort. We’ll look over the different options to help you get a better understanding of the choice ahead of you.
The Gas Furnace
This is the most common type of residential heating system, and likely the type you’re currently looking to have replaced. Gas furnaces have many benefits: They provide powerful heating, allowing them to overcome the cold even in drafty old houses. They heat up spaces quickly. The cost of natural gas is often less than electricity, so gas furnaces can help save money compared to an electric furnace.
But they have some drawbacks: They only work in homes with natural gas lines. They won’t last as long as electric furnaces. Burning natural gas can create safety hazards, although with proper maintenance few gas furnaces will become unsafe. But some homeowners feel safer not using natural gas at all.
The Electric Furnace
The biggest advantage of electric furnaces is that any home can use one as long as it has electricity. Gas furnaces often enjoy longer service lives than other heating systems, lasting for around 20 years and having fewer repairs during that time.
The downside of electric furnaces is the price of electricity—gas furnaces can rack up large costs for heating during the winter. This isn’t as tough here in Conway, however, because our winters aren’t extreme.
The Heat Pump
Heat pumps are two-in-one systems that operate as both air conditioners and heaters. Essentially, they’re air conditioners that can switch the direction they move heat. Heat pumps have excellent energy efficiency and use less electricity than electric furnaces when in heating mode. This makes them popular alternatives for all-electric homes.
However, for a heat pump to be worth the installation, it must replace both the current AC and heater. If you don’t have an air conditioning system ready to retire along with the heater, a heat pump is not as attractive a choice.
The Radiant Heater
These systems don’t heat air and blow it around to distribute warmth, but instead, heat up objects in a room (such as in-floor elements and baseboard heaters) and let warmth radiate off them into the space. Radiant heating is becoming more popular because of the quality of the warmth, they eliminate cold spots, and they keep down levels of dust and air pollutants. They’re major installations, however, and can require big changes to a house, such as removing the floor to put in the heating elements.
We’re Here to Help!
When it comes to heating installation in Little Rock, AR, we’re the pros you can trust to find the best choice for you. Call us today and get the process going of enjoying great home heating.
Dewees HVAC proudly serves the Conway area. Schedule a water heater replacement with our team: we are here to keep you comfortable.