Types of Home Heating Systems in Fredericksburg, VA
With winter nearly upon us, the coldest temperatures of the year are soon to hit home. If you’d like to avoid freezing in your living room, consider your home heating system. Ask questions like these: How old is my system? Does it turn on and off frequently? Do I have a properly-sized heating system for my home? Almost every home in the country has some form of heating, and some types are more efficient and cost-effective than others. Here are the most common types of home heating systems in Fredericksburg, VA in case you’re considering upgrading or installing a new unit.
Types of Home Heating Systems
First, know that home heating systems can be broken down into two categories: central heating and direct heat. Both offer their own unique systems, advantages, and disadvantages. Determining which of the two you would prefer in your home, or can even install, is the first step. You’ll likely want to hire a professional heating technician for the assessment and installation process. This investment pays for itself.
Central Heat
We’ll begin with central heating – arguably the most common form of home heating on the market. In the central heating category, you have:
- Furnaces – Most households in the country rely on a central furnace for their heating needs year-round. A furnace delivers hot air by blowing this air through the ducts, which are attached to each room in the house. Often, these systems use electricity, natural gas, or oil to operate.
- Boilers – Boilers are considered special-purpose water heaters. A furnace will carry heat in the air, while a boiler uses hot water to deliver heat through radiators in each room of the house.
- Heat Pumps – A heat pump is both an air conditioning system and a heater. During the summer, the system draws heat from the indoors to the outdoors. During winter, the heat pump reverses the process to bring hot air into the house.
Direct Heat
Now, let’s take a look at direct heating systems, which are relatively straightforward. You have:
- Space Heaters – A space heater that’s typically operated by electricity or gas is a popular choice. These systems are often portable, wall-mounted, or floor-based furnaces. The relatively small heat output and lack of ductwork make them a popular choice for regions without too severe winters.
- Stoves – If you operate a wood-burning or pellet stove, then you’re taking advantage of direct heat. The cost of fuel (in this case, wood) is generally cheaper than gas or oil. Pollutants are an issue, though.
- Fireplace – Nothing beats curling up beside a fireplace during winter. A fireplace adds aesthetic as well as heat during the coldest months of the year. However, like a stove, the pollutants and cleaning can be troublesome for many homeowners.
If winter is coming and you’re fighting back the cold, consider your home heating system. When you want professional installation, or need expert maintenance or repairs, call Robert B. Payne, Inc. at 540-373-5876. We provide the community with top-of-the-line heating system services, no matter the time of year. Keep your home warm with Robert B. Payne, Inc.