Heating expenses can affect almost half of an average household energy budget, making energy efficiency a vital task for reducing home heating expenses. For this, you can choose a high-efficiency heating system to help you cut down your energy bill by up to 70%. 

The HVAC market is full of a variety of different home heating options. However, before choosing the best heating system for your home, you have to consider the overall heating requirements, building dynamics, system size, feature set associated with the system, and most importantly, the cost. But with so many options, it could be pretty overwhelming to choose a system that provides enough heat for the house and reduces energy usage.

Geothermal Heat Pumps 

Geothermal heat pumps use the renewable heat within the earth to produce efficient heating. The pump collects heat from the sun that is stored in water or soil that maintains a constant temperature all year-round.

These pumps are easy on the environment, use less electricity, yet provide efficient heating. Moreover, they are safe to operate and produce no hazardous gases like carbon monoxide. However, these pumps can only be in the areas where the temperature is more constant throughout the year. 

Air Source Heat Pumps 

Air source heat pumps take heat from the air and release heat into the air surrounding the equipment. These pumps can deliver up to three times more heat energy to a home than the electrical energy it consumes when appropriately installed. Also, these are way cheaper than any oil or LPG boilers. 

However, it’s best to choose a pump with an energy star label. Air heat pumps will be installed like any other central air conditioner and cost you less than geothermal heat pumps. 

Furnace

A furnace is one of the most efficient heating systems you can bring home, especially if you have natural gas. It works by heating the air with a heat exchanger component and spreading it into the home through a duct system. Along with energy efficiency, one of the most significant advantages you’ll get is relative affordability. Many homeowners avoid installing furnaces as the fan makes them very loud. 

Boiler

Yes, you heard it right; boilers are still a thing. As the name implies, a boiler system heats the water present and uses that hot water to heat your home by pumping water from the tank through pipes to individual radiators. The radiators then work and circulate heat around various parts of the house. 

Another reason homeowners opt for a boiler is that they are quiet and since they don’t use ductwork and forced air, meaning no allergens around the house. However, oil or electric boilers are not preferred in American households. 

Ductless Heating Systems

The ductless heating system, also known as the ductless pump, doesn’t require a web of ducts and vents to keep your home warm. The system can be installed quickly and doesn’t strain your pocket like a central heating system. Though, you’ll require a separate system for each room. Ductless heating systems have an outdoor compressor installed outside your house with an indoor unit installed inside your home. 

Direct Heating Systems

As the name suggests, the direct heating system is the traditional way of directly acquiring heat from the heat source. This means you won’t need to install ducts and vents or an outdoor unit to keep your home warm. But this system is ideal only for a small space or room due to the limited heating output. 

Make Your Home Energy Efficient For This Winter Season

Insulate Your Attic And Walls 

To make your home an energy-efficient home, make sure your home is adequately insulated. This is beneficial during the winters as the chances are that you’re letting out heat due to poor insulation. You might not know this, but it also increases your energy bill.

Use Natural Sunlight 

There’s no need to spend extra when nature provides many free resources? You might not find the bright and shiny sun during the winter months, but it’s not gone completely. So, on sunny days, you can open up your curtains or blinds to take advantage of the sun’s warmth. But make sure you draw them again before it gets dark. 

Tune-Up Your HVAC System 

An annual tune-up will ensure that your AC and furnace work efficiently. Also, a yearly tune-up will save you from spending a lot of money on buying a new furnace. 

The Bottom Line

Choosing a system will largely depend on the size and requirement of your home. If cost is not a problem, you can go for a central heating system. However, if you want a cost-effective option and control the heating for a particular room, then a ductless heating system should be your choice. Either way, go for an alternative that is easy to handle, energy-efficient, safe, and cost-effective for you.