Friday, 20 March 2020

How to Select a Heating System

Types of Home Heating Systems

There are a lot of choices for heating systems when the winter comes. Whether you want to replace your old, noisy heating system or want to purchase a new one for a new home, you should be aware of the factors that you will need to consider before you have a heating system installed such as:

  • Climate – the climate in your area is a very important factor to consider. For instance, households in Victoria have different needs than Winnipeg.
  • Insulation – assess your home’s insulation. Make your house well-insulated by caulking you windows, and inspecting your ductwork.
  • Available energy sources – There are areas which have natural gas and there are some that don’t. Identify the available source to narrow down your system choices.

Types of heating systems:

  1. Forced-air systems. Among all the heating systems, this is the most popular. This system heats air then forces it through the ducts then to your rooms. Most heating systems of this kind are fueled by natural gas, but they’re also available in propane, oil, and electric. The electric types are less expensive but they consume the most energy. In choosing a system, you will also need to check the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating. This will tell you how efficient a system is. A yellow energy star sticker are also included in systems that are highly efficient.
  2. Heat pump. A common heat pump is the electric air source system. This type offers air conditioning and heating in just one unit. Heat pumps work by taking outside heat and transferring it inside for warmth. In reverse, it takes inside heat outside to cool your rooms. In times where the outside temperature is 40 degrees F, heat pumps are most efficient. The heating efficiency of this system is measured by the HSPF or the Heating Season Performance Factor; while the cooling efficiency is rated by the SEER or the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. An Energy Star logo would also be included in heat pumps that are highly efficient.
  3. Geothermal heating systems are for those who are pro-green. The heat comes from the earth and not air. This makes it efficient and accurate. A ground loop system is being used for a geothermal system which makes a complex and a costly installation. Don’t worry since the benefits will outweigh the costs. This heating system does not require much maintenance, eliminates noise, and has longer lifespan. If you’re having second thoughts in having a geothermal heating system, you can have a dual-source unit which is a combination of a ground-source system and an air-source system in one heat pump. These units are less costly but still have great efficiency.

Once you’ve identified all the necessary information to have the right heating system, call a HVAC professional and consult with them. They will be able to tell you the right size of system for your home and answer other questions that you have regarding a heating system.

There are many choices to choose from and you’ll be blinded by how one can be very efficient. But always consider the factors above so you’ll know the best heating system for you. Remember that there are systems that can have the highest efficiency rating but those aren’t always the best for your home which experiences a particular climate.

The post How to Select a Heating System appeared first on Furnace Repair Mississauga.

Sunday, 15 March 2020

A Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Garage Heater

garage heater Most people make use of their garage as a work place, a “man cave”, a place for recreational hobbies, or a place where they can have some time for themselves. These reasons compel homeowners to make sure that the garage is as comfortable as the rest of their home. If you’re thinking about purchasing the right garage heater to meet your needs, here are three main types of garage heaters you can choose from.

Electric Garage Heaters

The most common garage heater used in most home garages is the electric heater. Electric garage heaters make use of electricity, converts it to heat, and the heat is pushed out from the device by a motorized fan. This is the ideal choice for homeowners who make use of their garage for automotive work or for those who store combustible materials.

Advantages

  • They are very easy to set up and install
  • They do not require fuel refilling
  • They require very little maintenance
  • Electric garage heaters are generally quiet and can be controlled by a thermostat
  • They can be mounted to the wall to avoid tipping over
  • They come in portable and compact designs.

Disadvantages

  • Because they rely on electricity, they can be expensive to run
  • Power outage means no heat from your device
  • The heater’s fan speed cannot be controlled.

Propane Garage Heaters

As the name implies, this heater makes use of propane. The fuel is released from the tank, ignited by the pilot flame, heated and kept in the heat exchanger and released through a vent when the temperature is correct. If you’re using your garage as an extra living space, this could be a great option for you.

Advantages

  • Propane heaters are generally efficient and long-lasting
  • Power outages do not affect their performance
  • They can easily warm a space or your garage

Disadvantages

  • Propane garage heaters require that the garage has proper ventilation
  • Propane heaters need to be vented properly; otherwise, you run the risk of having dangerous fumes escape into your garage
  • Your garage has to be clear of combustible materials
  • You have to consider installation of heater and gas fitter, including the cost of gas for your expenses.

Natural Gas Heaters

Natural gas heaters make use of a gas line that flows through the gas valve within the heater. These work by getting the fuel ignited and warmed up until it reaches the set temperature. A fan blows out the heated air and circulates it around the garage.

Advantages

  • Natural gas heaters are the least expensive to run
  • They can easily heat a room in a short amount of time
  • They work in power outages

Disadvantages

  • Just like propane gas heaters, natural gas heaters need to be properly vented to avoid gas fumes from escaping into your garage
  • Your garage will need proper ventilation
  • You must make sure that your garage is free from combustible materials
  • Natural gas heaters leave an odour
  • Require a gas line for your garage

With all three garage heaters, you also have to consider the size of the heater you need for your garage. That being said, be aware of your garage’s size in square footage, the height of your garage ceiling, insulation, and other details that will affect the overall performance of your garage heater.

As always, you can reach out to your trusted company if you have questions or concerns about your heating needs.

The post A Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Garage Heater appeared first on Furnace Repair Mississauga.

How to Select a Heating System

There are a lot of choices for heating systems when the winter comes. Whether you want to replace your old, noisy heating system or want to...