When it comes to home appliances, no fixture is quite as essential as your HVAC system. Providing heating and cooling comfort, regulating humidity levels, and maintaining indoor air quality are just a few things that heating systems do for you on a daily basis.
Choosing a Furnace
Which type of furnace installation services are right for you? Read on for more information about the different heating options available to homeowners.
Gas Furnaces
A gas furnace uses natural gas as fuel to heat a home. The furnace works by drawing air into the system, heating it with a burner, and distributing the warm air throughout your home via a series of ducts. Gas furnaces are energy efficient and reliable, with many models lasting between 15 and 20 years with proper care and maintenance. Natural gas tends to be less expensive than other fuel sources, so gas furnaces are a more cost-effective option for heating. Gas furnaces are also very quiet during operation. Regular inspections, cleaning, and filter changes are needed to optimize function and minimize potential safety hazards of gas furnaces.
Electric Furnaces
Electric furnaces use an ignition system to heat air and distribute it through ductwork, much like a gas furnace would. Modern electric furnaces use less energy than their older counterparts. Since electricity can be generated from renewable resources, electric furnaces are an environmentally friendly choice for many homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Electric furnaces do not produce emissions or dangerous by-products as part of their ignition process, making them a safer option for heating your home. They are also relatively low maintenance. Choosing an electric furnace with a higher energy efficiency rating will yield significant savings on monthly energy costs, although you must keep up with regular maintenance and filter replacements to keep your system in good working order.
Propane furnaces
Like gas furnaces, a propane furnace uses propane gas as a fuel source to heat a home. Propane tends to be more expensive than natural gas, though it can be a good option for homes without reliable access to natural gas. A portable propane tank can be installed outside the home to make the fuel supply readily accessible.
Dual-Fuel Furnaces
Dual-fuel furnaces use electricity and gas as fuel sources, allowing them to switch between the two as needed. This results in higher energy savings and improved efficiency when natural gas is scarce. Conversely, natural gas may continue working if you are prone to power outages in your area, making the dual-fuel furnace an attractive option for those who want a backup heat source.
Heat Pumps
A heat pump is a device that transfers heat from one location to another in order to heat a space. It uses a refrigerant to absorb heat from the outside air or ground and transfers it inside to heat your home. Heat pumps are highly energy efficient because it uses less energy to transfer heat than to generate it. They do not burn fossil fuels, making them another environmentally friendly option compared to other heating systems. Heat pumps are also durable and have a long lifespan.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing the right furnace installation depends on a number of factors, including:
• Size of the unit
• Desired fuel type
• Efficiency ratings
• Climate
• Ventilation system
• Installation and potential furnace repair costs
• Finding a reputable HVAC contractor
Still Have Questions?
Let the professionals at Atlantic Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning Inc. help you navigate the furnace installation process. Quality furnace installation services, furnace repair services, replacement, boiler and thermostat repair, plumbing services, and ventilation services are just a few of the many things we provide valued customers in Hampton and beyond. Contact Atlantic Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning Inc. now for more information.