Modern technology affords us so many daily comforts and joys; from accessing the world at our fingertips in the form of a cell phone to hot water flowing through the faucet for our early morning shower… science and technology surely improve our daily living. While we snuggle in our comforts and amenities, improved technology comes with many choices; and choices require decisions!

 

As we walk into the chilly winter months, we are reminded of a piece of modern technology that we often take for granted: HEAT! Gone are the days of relying on a wood-burning stove and fireplaces in each room, we now depend on a tiny thermostat to handle our comforts.

When it comes to heating your home, there are several decisions to be made, and unless you are part of a new construction, those decisions have often been made for you, years before you arrived. It might be time to rethink your heat source in your home? Perhaps it’s time for an update for the sake of efficiency and reliability?

 

There are several different types of residential heating systems; some that have been present on the market for decades, some that are newer technology. Understanding the main concepts of the 3 most prevalent options will help you make the best decision for your heat source.

 

Furnaces: Running on gas, propane, or oil furnaces are generally categorized into 3 efficiency types.

  • Base Model: Working well in milder climates, these operate with minimum efficiency as they are often not ‘over-worked’ or required for extended periods of time
  • Mid-Efficiency: a level above the base mode, has more advanced heat exchangers
  • High-Efficiency: Using a second heat exchanger, this option is most cost-effective in extreme climates or large homes.

Heat Pumps: Heat pumps use the same refrigerant system as air conditioning units, but are able to reverse the rotation to emit heat instead of cool air. They transfer heat from one place to another; in summer months, the heat pump takes warm air from inside the house and pumps it outside, in the cooler months, doing the opposite; taking warmth out of the outside air and pushing it inside the house. Perfect for milder climates as a heat pump does not generate heat, it moves already established heat energy into different spaces.

 

Hybrid Dual Fuel Heating Systems: This is a system that pairs an electric heat pump with a gas furnace and alternates between the two fuel sources to maximize efficiency and comfort. During the summer months, the heat pump works like an air conditioner, in the milder spring or fall weather, it continues to provide comfort with cost effective and efficient heat; however, as temperatures drop in winter months, the pumps disengages and the furnace does the heavy lifting of generating heat.

 

It is essential to engage professional Heating and Cooling experts, such as River View Heating and Cooling to help you make the best decision for your home. Especially if you are in a pre established residence, and are looking to make a change, an upgrade, or an update to your heat source, expert technicians will be able to quickly calculate multiple factors that will determine which heat source system is best. They will look at things like your power source, your distribution system, your efficiency goals, and your long-term budget.

 

Contact River View Heating and Cooling today; we’re staffed with trusted and trained professionals who work with each client to ensure satisfaction and comfort. It’s easy to take our modern technology for granted, but when it’s time to make a change, an upgrade, or an update, River View is there to help. Contact us today.

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