You likely have a lot of questions when it comes to putting in a new heating system. Fortunately, an installer should be able to guide you through any questions or concerns.
1. You Don't Need Existing Ducts
In homes without existing ductwork, there may be concerns about whether you can add a heating system. Fortunately, there are several options. You can choose a ductless heating system, such as radiant floor heaters or wall heaters. There is also the option to add ducts if there is enough space in your walls. External ducts that run along the junction where the wall meets the ceiling are another alternative to traditional built-in ducts.
2. There's More Than One Type of Furnace
Your installer will be able to show you many different types of furnaces. There are the standard forced air central heating units that most people are familiar with, as well as the standard radiator types of units such as wall radiant heaters and electric baseboard heaters. Floor heating, whether through an electric or heated water system, is another option. A less familiar but climbing in popularity option to consider are heat pumps, which can also be used to cool your home in summer.
3. Always Check Energy Usage
Before making the final decision on any type of heating system, make sure you are aware of its average energy usage and cost to run. This means considering the fuel type, whether it's gas, electric, or oil, as well as its energy efficiency. All furnaces and heating systems have an Energy Star rating, which is a label that will allow you to quickly compare energy usage across different types and models.
4. Consider Air Quality Issues
There are many reasons to be concerned about the air quality in your home. Allergies to pollen, pet dander, and dust mites can be exacerbated when a heating system moves the allergens around the home. Smoke and pollutants from outside can also be a concern. Fortunately, there are inline air purification and filtration systems that can be added to your new heating system to ensure your home has the best air quality.
5. Size Really Does Matter
Heating systems aren't one size fits all. Output is typically measured in British thermal units (BTU) to square feet. Your installer will measure your home's heatable space and help you determine the size and capacity of the heating system required. A too small system won't heat the house well, while an overly large system will result in high bills, increased maintenance needs, and overheating.
Contact a heating system installation service to learn more about putting in a new furnace.