Heating costs can be a burden for homeowners, especially if you live in a cold climate. If you’re looking to install a heating system, efficiency is usually a top priority. A system should be an investment that saves you money and effort in the long run in addition to making your house more comfortable.

But which one can do that for you? In this day and age, new technologies are making temperature control more accessible than ever. With so many choices, it can be difficult to determine which is best for your situation. To help you, here are three common heating systems and how they work.

DUCTLESS HEAT PUMPS

Developed over 30 years ago in Japan, heat pumps are an excellent option for many homes, especially those constructed without internal ductwork. Rather than generating heat, these systems move it between indoor and outdoor units via a refrigerant line to achieve maximum comfort. Mini-split heat pump cold climate options are popular all over the world and have recently gained traction in the Northwestern United States.

Ductless heat pump installation can be less expensive than options that contain ductwork or tubing and is less intrusive by far. Because they’re only moving heat, not creating it, mini-split heat pumps may also lower your energy costs. As a bonus to individuals who are environmentally conscious, this system doesn’t produce harmful byproducts like a traditional furnace.

SOLAR HEATING

Solar heating is a prime choice for people concerned with their carbon footprint. The core premise is to use the sun to heat your home – not through electricity generated by solar panels, but with the actual sunshine itself. This system requires strategically planning a house’s layout to maximize the amount of sun it receives through the windows. Insolation then keeps the heat trapped and the rooms cozy.

The lack of artificially generated heat means you don’t have to be concerned with any byproducts from fossil fuels or environmentally harmful extraction. It can also have a significant impact on your wallet since you’re not paying for energy.

However, there are a few drawbacks to this option. For instance, if your house is already built, redesigning it to include solar heating can be expensive or impractical. Relying on windows and sun also has its limitations, as some portions of the house may not receive enough light. Many homeowners with solar heating still rely on secondary appliances at least part of the time.

ELECTRIC HEATING

While electric heating is the option you’re most likely to be familiar with, it’s also the most expensive, least efficient, and even potentially harmful, depending on the equipment you’re using. Electric heating covers a variety of systems and equipment, including:

  • Space heaters
  • Furnaces
  • Boilers

These either supply direct heat (space heaters) or heat another substance to be spread throughout the house via a network of vents or radiators (furnaces and boilers). While still commonly used, these systems expend an enormous amount of energy to heat rooms. Central heating systems also require regular maintenance, such as cleaning out ductwork, that may rarely be done due to cost and inconvenience.

RELIABLE & AFFORDABLE HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS IN OREGON & WASHINGTON

The Heat Pump Store is your source for ductless mini split heat pumps. We offer the best brands in the business, including Panasonic, Daikin, Mitsubishi, LG, and Fujitsu. All of these are available for installation by skilled professionals to increase the comfort of your home. We’re also able to service heat pumps from these companies and are happy to be your choice for regular maintenance. We encourage you to consider us for any of your heat pump needs. For more information on our products and services, or to schedule an installation, cleaning, or repair, call us at (877) 509-2961 or contact us online.