Selecting a Heating Source for Your Home
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
There are two main types of home heating sources--gas and electricity--and several variations within each. Before choosing a heating system, talk with some heating contractors and spend some time understanding how each one operates.
Before deciding between electric and gas heat, talk with a heating and air conditioning contractor and consider:
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has written home improvement columns for 15 years.
Gas a Popular Heating Choice
Natural gas is the most popular choice for home heating in the United States, according to the American Gas Association. As selecting a new heating type is an important home improvement project, consider the types of gas heating carefully.Types of Gas Heating Systems
The common types of gas heating systems are:- Forced-air heating systems, where cool air is drawn into the system, moved into a heat exchanger then warmed by the gas burner. The air is then circulating by a blower or fan through the home's ductwork. These systems can also include a humidifier or dehumidifier, as well as an air conditioning system.
- Radiant heating systems have a gas boiler that creates steam or hot water and circulates it through pipes or tubes. A heating and air conditioning contractor can explain how these heating systems use radiators, radiant floor systems, or baseboard units to heat your home.
An Overview of Electric Heating
In some parts of the country, electric heat is a popular option. Electric heat is fuelled by a boiler or furnace. Smaller electric heaters are wall or baseboard mounted. One downside to electric heating is that it may not produce the same level of warmth as gas heat.Electric Heat for Small Areas
If your home improvement project involves adding heat for one room or small area, consider an electric baseboard or wall heater. These heaters are "hard wired" and connect directly to the electrical system. This saves the expense of expanding or connecting to the existing boiler or furnace system. These heaters typically have their own thermostat and safety cut-off switch.Consider Maintenance on Any Heating System
A heating system is like any major house component--it will require periodic maintenance. In many cases, this involves changing filters (when applicable) and having a "tune up" every year or two to check and possibly replace parts. The cost for tune ups will vary, but often is $50 to $85.Before deciding between electric and gas heat, talk with a heating and air conditioning contractor and consider:
- The cost of the system and installation
- The energy rates in your area
- Your typical energy usage, based on your comfort level and climate
- Your current heating system--in many cases it is less expensive to replace your current heating system with the same type of system. Conversely, if you are unhappy with your current system, then perhaps a change is worth the extra cost.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has written home improvement columns for 15 years.
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