Are you looking to install a new heating system in your home before winter? Homeowners have more options than ever for heating systems from furnaces to boilers or ductless systems, but how do you determine which one is right for you? Here are the benefits to both types of heating units.
Benefits of a Furnace
Furnaces are a very efficient heating system for your home. Furnace efficiency is denoted by an AFUE rating. AFUE stands for “Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency,” and the higher the AFUE percentage, the more heat the furnace delivers to the relative amount of fuel consumed. A standard, natural gas burning furnace typically has an AFUE rating of 78-84% though they can go even higher.
A furnace is a great system because they heat your home so quickly. They have faster start times and quickly provide comfort to the entirety of your home within a matter of minutes.
Most furnace systems are fueled by natural gas and this type of fuel source is incredibly cost-effective. Furnace systems do have a higher initial cost but since they are so cost-effective and do have an average life expectancy of 15-20 years, you will offset this cost quickly. To get the full value of your furnace system, you’ll need ongoing professional maintenance services to maintain high efficiency.
The great thing about a furnace is that you can improve your indoor air quality through this system. Since this is a forced air system that uses your ductwork, you can install an air purifier, dehumidifier, humidifier or an air filtration system right into your furnace system. This is a great option because you can condition all the air in your home at once rather than using small, spot conditioning systems like portable room humidifiers. Improving your indoor air quality should not be an afterthought. Your indoor air quality affects your personal health and your home’s comfort.
Benefits of a Heat Pump
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You will only need one heating and cooling system instead of two.
Rather than having an air conditioner for summer and a furnace for winter, heat pumps keep you comfortable whether it is hot outside or cold.
- Heat pumps are “greener” and more economical than furnaces.
Rather than burning fuels like oil or gas to create heat, they use electricity to move heat from one place to another. This process is cheaper than burning fuel, and most people see a corresponding reduction in utility bills. Heat pumps can deliver the same degree of indoor comfort as air conditioners and furnaces, but the operational costs can be 30-75% less.
- Heat pumps can economically heat hot tubs, hot water heaters and swimming pools.
This can reduce utility bills as well.
- Heat pumps perform very well in moderate climates like South Carolina.
In climates with severe, extreme winters; however, a furnace would be a better option.
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Heat pumps reduce indoor humidity more efficiently than central air conditioners.
This means greater indoor comfort at a lower monthly price.
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Mini-split heat pumps can be used in homes that do not have pre-existing duct work.
Installing a mini-split heat pump or air conditioner may be a more cost effective option over the construction costs of installing ductwork.
- Cool or heat only the rooms you use.
With a zoned mini-split system, you can condition the air in specific rooms without heating and cooling the entire house. This can greatly reduce your utility bills.
- You can qualify for a 30% tax rebate.
When you purchase a geothermal heat pump installation, you will qualify for a tax rebate of 30% with no limits. This can reduce installation costs considerably.
To determine which system is right for your home, please give us a call at 803.772.7715 to schedule an appointment!
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