Learn About the Different Types of Heating Systems

Many of us likely don’t think much about the ways our heating and cooling systems work. As long as we can regulate our home’s temperature, we can focus on other tasks and leave the heating/cooling to the system. However, heating and cooling — especially heating — becomes important during these winter months. If your heating system is not up to par, it’s time to consider replacing it and getting something you can rely on for years.

When you look at heating systems, you should first decide what type of heating system you want. Consumers Energy Management can install gas furnaces, heat pumps and dual fuel systems.

Gas Furnaces

A gas furnace is a common heating system that many Americans use. The burners in a furnace generate combustion gases that pass over a heat exchanger. Then, the gas is distributed throughout your home via various ducts.

Gas furnaces heat up your home more quickly than heat pumps, but are generally less cost- and energy -efficient than dual fuel systems and heat pumps.

Heat Pumps

Unlike gas furnaces, heat pumps can work to heat and cool your home, so the name is a bit of a misnomer. During the winter, the heat pump’s outdoor coil acts as an evaporator to absorb heat from the outside air. The heat energy from the air is transformed into warm air as it moves through the pump’s coil.
The air handler pushes the air into your home through the vents. You can enjoy the heat in the winter and the cool air in the summer. Plus, heat pumps are more efficient than gas furnaces. They are useful for the moderate climates.

Another advantage is that we at Consumer Energy Management offer free estimates and in-home surveys for those looking at installing heat pumps.

Dual Fuel Systems

The dual fuel systems have it all. They function as both an air conditioning unit and as a heating unit in a neat, small system. They also contain a furnace and a heat pump. During the winter, the dual fuel system uses the heat pump to capture the outside air with electricity, and the furnace burns its own natural gas to heat your home.

The dual fuel system provides even more control over your HVAC system and the source of your home’s heat. That means you get lower energy bills overall, and installation is generally less expensive than if you ordered a separate heating and cooling unit.

The Decision

Overall, you should look at your home’s needs and what you would like to gain from a heating system. If you want a compact, combined system, look no further than the dual fuel setup. If you just need a cost-effective heating source, the heat pump may be for you. Or, if you suffer greatly in the winter, you could use the warmer gas furnace.

Whatever you decide, Consumer Energy Management can help you move forward and consider the factors involved. Contact us for a free estimate today.

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