There are a few key points to consider when you are faced with choosing a new heating system. Just like Goldilocks – you want to select one that will be just right! A new system needs to fit the size of your house, compliment your space, and be efficient to save on energy costs. Here’s what you need to consider:
A new heating system is a big investment, one of the biggest made in a house, so you want to spend your money wisely. You also don’t want to break the bank. While you may not need the Cadillac of heating systems, trying to save money up front isn’t wise either. Choose a quality system instead of focusing only on price. Cheap systems installed by less experienced technicians is probably not a smart use of your money. A good quality system will last longer and be more energy efficient so it will save you money in the long run.
Every furnace or boiler has a different efficiency levels, and this should be clearly publicized on the product spec sheets. A quality system will have a high rating of “annual fuel utilization efficiency” (AFUE). AFUE is the percent of heat produced for every dollar of fuel consumed. Just like the miles-per-gallon rating on your car, the higher the AFUE rating, the lower your fuel costs. Look for AFUE ratings of more than 80%. Considering the operating efficiency of the heating system you are going to install in your house is very important.
Figuring out the right sized system for the square footage of your heated space, along with your unique demands on a heating system is vital. This pertains not only to the physical size of the unit, but it’s capacity and output levels.
Heating system sizing, called a “load calculation”, is a series of measurements of your home. These measurements help determine the right size unit for keeping your home comfortable. Other factors are considered when choosing a heating unit size as well. Details such as natural solar gain, and how much insulation the building has, name a few factors.
The larger the system, the larger the price tag, usually. Because this is such a vital decision, you should definitely have a trained professional work up this information for you. The right sized system will ensure your system will give you many years of comfort.
The location of your new heating system doesn’t necessarily need to be where your current system is installed. You want to select a place where you can easily access the main unit, install the necessary heat registers throughout the living spaces, and where operation noise won’t disturb you. Don’t compromise on size just because you don’t want to accommodate the required space.
Deciding on the best heating system for your house is not a simple task. As you can see, you need to plan properly before you decide on a system type and make the purchase. Contact an experienced, licensed heating contractor so that your investment is made wisely. 207 Plumbing & Heating is the best choice you can make. We can help you with all the information you need to select the best heating system for your home. We are experienced and professional technicians who will help you every step of the way!
