Whether you’re considering the gentle warmth of radiant heat, the versatility of ductless heat pumps, the durability of boilers, or the reliability of furnaces, each option brings unique benefits to the table. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of system to help you determine which choice is best to bring warmth and comfort to your home’s heating zones during colder months.

Cozy In-Floor Radiant Heating

Radiant heating systems can be either electric, hydronic or a hybrid of both, and these in-floor installations use electromagnetic waves and thermal radiation to heat your home. Many homeowners in our service areas in Kentucky claim that radiant heat is their first choice due to its benefits with minimal drawbacks.

Pros:

  • More efficient and cleaner than forced air units
  • Improved comfort
  • Less allergens
  • No ducts or grills
  • Quiet operation
  • Higher resale value

Cons:

  • Limited to certain spaces, preferably with high ceilings or sizable open rooms
  • Floor replacement during installation is required.
  • Has a higher up-front cost than most heating system types

Ductless Heat Pump Options

There are three primary types of heat pumps: air-to-air, geothermal and water-sourced. Depending on the type, the unit may use refrigerant and electricity to collect heat from the ground, air or water and deliver it to your home. These heat pumps can function as a mini-split, ductless system.

Pros:

  • Works in reverse in summer to transfer heat out
  • More energy-efficient than a gas furnace
  • Does not burn fossil fuels
  • Does not require ductwork

Cons:

  • May require supplemental heat in colder climates
  • Higher-than-average up-front installation cost

Traditional Boilers

This type of heating system heats water in a central boiler using electricity, natural gas, propane or fuel oil. Water or steam heated by boilers travels into the home through several pipes or baseboard heaters and displaces cold air. Cooled water returns to the boiler and continues the process until optimal temperatures are achieved.

Pros:

  • Easy to control heat distribution through zones
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Distributes heat evenly throughout the home

Cons:

  • More expensive replacement parts
  • Takes longer to respond after changing the thermostat
  • May leak water, but not commonly
  • Requires a separate system for cooling

Forced-Air Furnace Heating Systems

A furnace heats the home by burning fuel, such as natural gas, propane, oil or electricity. The air is forced into a metal heat exchanger, which transfers warmth through the home’s vents and ducts. Furnaces are the most common HVAC choices in the United States today.

Pros:

  • Requires less maintenance than other heating systems
  • Uses ductwork that is sharable with air conditioning systems
  • Affordable due to energy efficiency and lower fuel costs

Cons:

  • Has a potential risk of fire and explosions
  • Elevated risk of carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Can carry allergens through fans and ductwork

Looking For Winter Warmth Solutions?

Stay warm and comfortable during the Kentucky winter with a new heating system from Knight’s Mechanical. We can also assist with routine maintenance of your existing installation. Contact us to learn more.

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