Did your heating system just break down? Or, do you need to replace your old one? Whether the pilot light won't stay lit, the heater smells like it's burning, or the system makes frightening noises, it's probably time for an upgrade. With cold weather still upon us, it's natural to rush the buying process. However, it's best to take things slow and do your research first. Here are four things you should do before installing a new heating system:
1. Research Different Options
When it comes to heating, you have options. Don't be so quick to settle on the first one you see. There are furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, fireplaces, old-fashioned wood-burning stoves, and even radiant floor heat. Another option is to invest in a few electric space heaters. For more information about your options, speak with a qualified heating installation technician.
2. Consider Your Budget
Obviously, heating systems aren't cheap. They use lots of energy, and energy costs money. Of course, you must also factor in the price of installation. While you don't need to buy the most expensive heating system on the market, you shouldn't buy the cheapest either. Heating that's less expensive probably won't be as long-lasting as a more expensive system. Try to find a balance between a high-quality heating system and cost-efficiency.
3. Determine Efficiency Level
Different heating systems put out different energy levels. Efficiency is the ability to produce as much heat as possible at the lowest possible cost. When it comes to achieving efficiency, it's best to go with a heat pump as they use less electricity yet are still effective in heating your home. Although a high-efficiency heating system will have a higher initial cost, you'll save more money in terms of gas or electricity usage.
4. Conduct a Heating Load Calculation
Consult with an HVAC technician to perform a consultation to determine the type of heater is best and how much heating is needed based on the size of your home. If you avoid this step, you run the risk of installing a heating system that won't be effective in heating your home.
Contact us today if you have any questions about your existing heating system or would like to learn about installing a new one.
