Whether you’re building a home and need to decide on a heat source, or you are interested in replacing your current heating system, you’re faced with a big decision. Which heating system is right for your home? To answer that, you need to know what the main benefits and drawbacks are for each of the different heating systems. Last time we introduced the different options available to the homeowner. This time we’ll dive a little deeper into their differences.
1. NATURAL GAS FURNACES
PROS
- Not only is Natural gas extremely reliable, it is less expensive than other fossil fuels. It also burns cleaner than other fossil fuels making it environmentally friendly and is safer and easier to store when compared to other fossil fuels.
- Lower fuel costs and improved energy efficiency make natural gas furnaces typically cheaper to run. Desired temperatures are reached faster than an electrically powered furnace, using significantly less fuel while heating-up.
CONS
- A Natural gas furnace is generally more expensive upfront and may be more expensive to install if it requires plumbing into a supply line.
- The main disadvantage of natural gas furnaces is the generation of emissions.
2. LP GAS FURNACE
PROS
- LPG burns clean which means LPG furnaces usually do not need as much maintenance and last longer.
- They are safe. One of the biggest benefits being that propane is non-toxic.
- You can run your stove or water heater on propane as well other appliances.
CONS
- They produce less heat per gallon than oil which means that although the cost of propane might be better than oil, you are going to have to use more to get the same temperature.
- It can be extremely expensive to convert another type of heating system to propane.
- If you own the tank, maintenance is the biggest disadvantage, or a monthly rental fee will have to be paid if it is owned by the energy company.
3. ELECTRIC HEAT PUMPS
PROS
- They are cheaper to run than systems based on combustion.
- Less maintenance is required than the combustion heating systems.
- Heat Pumps are safer than combustion systems.
- Carbon emissions are significantly reduced. .
- Heat pumps can conveniently be switched to cooling mode during the summers.
- They are exceptionally reliable and provide a steady source of heat.
CONS
- The outdoor unit of a heat pump is just as noisy as a conventional air conditioner, so you should plan placement of the unit with the comfort of your neighbors in mind.
- Proper installation by a technician who is up to date with the latest installation and maintenance standards is critical.
4. HEATING-OIL SYSTEMS
PROS
- Heating oil is not explosive like gas even though it is flammable, and it does not produce carbon monoxide. This makes its use a safer option.
- Because heating oil burns at a higher temperature than natural gas and delivers more heat than other heating sources, it is more efficient.
- Deliveries of heating oil can be arranged. This is ideal for remote locations.
- Lower up-front costs – boilers that run on oil tend to be cheaper than those that burn gas.
CONS
- Heating oil costs much more than natural gas with the price of oil fluctuating all the time.
- Heating oil additives are required to keep the boiler running efficiently.
- Requires more maintenance because oil produces a lot of soot and dirt, which needs regular cleaning.
It is best to have the support of a trained professional to choose the right system for your needs. Kings Heating & Air Conditioning would love to talk to you and help you choose from the different heating systems. We’re your heating experts in Lynnwood, Edmonds, Shoreline and throughout the northern Puget Sound area. Contact us today.
