If you’re a homeowner who prioritizes comfort and cost-efficiency, deciding on the right heating system can be an overwhelming decision. Today, most consumers use furnaces, boiler, or hydro-air systems. But not all of these appliances are right for everyone. To help you weigh your options, here are a few basic points to know about how these systems work—and what pros and cons they offer.
A Guide to Your HVAC Options
What Is a Furnace?
Furnaces take cooler air and pass it through a heat exchanger powered fuel or electricity. Fans distribute this warm air throughout the home via a series of air ducts and vents.
Furnaces are among the least expensive options to maintain but offer an average life span of only 15 years. They also result in some level of heat loss, which may make it less efficient than other equipment options. Regarding comfort, furnaces and HVAC systems can produce cold spots and reduce humidity.
What Is a Boiler?
Boilers heat up water with fuel or electricity. The hot water passes through a series of pipes that connect to individual radiators or in-floor radiant heat systems found throughout the home. The warmth distributes into the room to raise the temperature, and the cool water is recycled to the boiler where it is re-heated.
Of all systems, boilers are among the most costly to repair and maintain. However, they generally do not require as much upkeep as other systems and can last up to 30 years. They are also incredibly efficient and result in no heat loss, allowing homeowners to save on energy costs. Boilers can leak, however, which presents a risk of water damage.
What Is a Hydro-Air System?
Powered by fuel or electricity, a hydro-air system utilizes a tankless water heater or boiler to warm up cold water. The hot water can be used for indoor plumbing purposes—such as when taking a shower or washing laundry. Fans also blow the hot air produced by the pipes to distribute heat throughout the home, similar in a way to a ducted warm-air system.
Hydro-air systems don’t require much space and are fairly easy to install. Thanks to its dual purposes, these systems provide an unlimited source of hot water and make it easy to adjust temperatures. However, if you currently don’t have a forced-air system, you will have to install ductwork and ventilation.
Whatever type of system is right for you, Servco Oil & Propane is here to make sure your home heating equipment runs reliably and efficiently. Providing clean-burning heating oil and propane in the Wilton, CT, area, this team will provide on-time fuel deliveries at affordable prices. These experienced technicians are also trained to provide maintenance and repairs on equipment to make sure your climate control system is safe and effective. Visit this Fairfield County propane and heating oil supplier online to learn more about these services or call (203) 762-7994 to request assistance.
