As the temperatures decrease in the winter months, we know comfort and warmth become a priority. From traditional heating systems to innovative options, we will explore the most efficient ways to keep your house warm that will keep utility costs down. Although some options don’t need a heater in a house to keep things cozy, we are sure you will find a system that will work best for your home and family.
1. Central Heating Systems
Central heating systems are the most common way to heat a house and the most efficient. By distributing heat throughout a home from a central point, central heating systems provide consistent warmth throughout various rooms. Two options stand out in this category:
- Furnaces: Furnaces are one of the most popular ways to heat a house. They use a fuel source like natural gas, propane, or oil to generate heat. The system then distributes heat through a ductwork system and a blower motor.
- Boilers: Water is used to disperse heat throughout a building by using steam. The heated water is circulated through radiators, baseboard heaters, or in-floor radiant heaters. Boilers are known for their even heat distribution.
2. Space Heaters
Space Heaters are portable devices designed to provide localized heating in a designated area at the discretion of the user. They offer flexibility and are used to supplement central heating systems and heat areas where traditional systems may fall short. It is important to know caution is necessary when using space heaters as they require a great deal of power. Common outlets are not intended for space heater usage. Contact us to learn more about how to safely use outlets if you decide to have a space heater in your home. The two common types of space heaters are:
- Electric: These heaters come in many different forms like ceramic, infrared, and radiant. These are efficient for spot heating a house but can become costly depending on quantity and amount of use.
- Gas: Gas heaters are fueled by propane or natural gas and are more cost-effective than electric. Because gas heaters must be used in well-ventilated areas, you can place them outdoors or in larger spaces.
3. Fireplaces
Known for being the poster child of warmth and comfort, fireplaces come in all types and styles, giving both heat and a cozy aesthetic. Here are two common types of fireplaces:
- Wood-Burning Fireplaces: While traditional and cozy, these fireplaces burn wood logs to produce heat. Although these fireplaces are a beautiful, warm addition to any home, they require regular cleaning and maintenance.
- Gas Fireplaces: Offering convenience and efficiency, gas fireplaces are a cleaner alternative to their wood-burning counterparts. Gas fireplaces often have features like remote control and are available in vented or ventless options.
4. Radiant Heating
Radiant heating systems warm surfaces within a room like the floors, walls, or ceilings. This method of heating is beneficial as it provides even heat distribution, increased energy efficiency, and reduced air circulation. Two examples of heating systems are:
- In-Floor Radiant Heating: The most common type of radiant heating can be found in bathrooms. Installation requires electric cables or water-filled pipes beneath the floor. As the system heats the floor, warmth is transferred into the room.
- Radiant Panels: Installed on walls or ceilings, radiant panels emit heat directly to objects and people in the room. These also can use electric cables or water-filled pipes.
5. Solar Heating
Solar heating is a sustainable and environmentally friendly method of using the sun’s energy to provide warmth for residential, commercial, or industrial spaces. There are two main types of solar heating:
- Passive Solar Heating: This type of heating requires designing your home to maximize sunlight for a long-term, eco-friendly heating solution. Key elements of this type of heating include south-facing windows, thermal mass (which are materials that store and release heat), and proper insulation.
- Active Solar Heating: Active Solar Heating harnesses the sun’s energy to heat water for space heating, reducing reliance on traditional heating sources. These heaters consist of solar collectors, a heat exchanger, a fluid circulation system, and a storage tank.
Staying Warm is Easy with Landis Electric
A warm and cost-effective home is very much achievable. Whether you choose a traditional heating system, a fireplace, or jump into the future with solar heating, there is an option for you. We at Landis can assist with your heating and electric needs to make sure you stay warm and cozy during these blistery cold months. Visit our website to learn how we can help. If you are having an electrical emergency or need a Master electrician, schedule our service today, we’ll be glad to serve you.