The best way to keep your house warm during the winter is to have a working heating system. There are many different electrical heating systems available, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for your home.
This post will explore the different types of electrical heating systems and help you decide which system is best for your needs. So, whether you are in the market for a new heating system or just want to learn more about them, keep reading.
The Main Types of Electrical Heating Systems
1. Furnace
The most common type of home heating system is forced air. It uses a furnace with an extractor fan that delivers heated, conditioned air to the house’s various rooms through networks of ducts and louvers, including those found on window frames.
This same technology can also be used during the summer months when you need refrigerant for your AC unit.
- Fuel source: electricity, oil, propane, or natural gas
- Pro: They combine heating and cooling capabilities
- Con: These furnaces can pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, or explosions
2. Boiler
The traditional style of heating and cooling is with boilers, which use a central unit to send steam or water through pipes.
Radiator systems work well in homes where people need zoning heat-cooling throughout their living spaces but aren’t efficient for larger rooms that only require one type of warmth at a time, like those on higher floors.
- Fuel Source: Fuel oil, propane, natural gas, or biodiesel blends.
- Pro: Its heat is comfortable and doesn’t dry out
- Con: They cannot be combined with air conditioning in an HVAC system
Read: Universal engine block heater
3. Heat Pump
The heat pump is a new technology that many people use to save money on their electric bills. It works by extracting the air’s temperature and transferring it into your home, just like an AC system but without all of those pesky condensation pipes running through walls.
One popular type for this type of device has been mini-splits or ductless systems where they’re installed close enough so you can feel airflow across them.
This system is a great way to keep your house cool during the hot summer months. It has an outdoor compressor unit and indoor air handler that can be placed in different rooms, automatically switching into a cooling mode when needed.
- Fuel Source: Natural gas or electricity
- Pro: Wall units allow you to control the temperature in every room, and it doesn’t require ductwork
- Con: It’s inefficient when it comes to frigid climates
4. In-floor Radiant
There’s something about in-floor radiant heating systems that just makes them irresistible. They’re quick and easy to install, with no need for complicated machinery or piping; all you’ll need are some tiles or concrete. The best part is you can put your feet up while this cozy system takes care of business.
The in-floor radiant heating system is a slow starter, but once it gets going, you’ll be glad to know that this energy-efficient option provides heated comfort for every inch of your house.
- Fuel Source: Natural gas, electricity, propane, or solar hot water systems
- Pro: They provide comfortable, even, and steady heat in your home
- Con: Difficult to maintain once damaged
Read: Electric wall heaters with thermostat
5. Electric Resistance
Electric resistance heating systems are not used as the primary home heating System due to their high cost. However, they make for an excellent supplemental system in homes without any other form of heat.
The electric heater is a must-have for any home. It’s easy to install and can be taken from room to room, requiring virtually no maintenance or ductwork.
- Fuel Source: Electricity
- Pro: They are versatile
- Con: Electricity costs can be expensive
6. Baseboard Heater
Hydronic systems are a modernized form of radiant heat that can be highly efficient. Using an indoor boiler, these baseboard units heat water which circulates through pipes to low-profile Immersion Heaters for distribution throughout your home.
The update on this traditionally upright radiator system helps heated air rise while pushing cold down below, so you’re always warm in every room.
- Fuel Source: electricity, natural gas, propane, or fuel oil
- Pro: They have an accurate temperature control mechanism
- Con: They cannot be combined with air conditioners
7. Electric Space Heater
An electric space heater is an excellent temporary solution for people who live in cold weather. It provides targeted and controlled heat within minutes of being plugged into the electricity.
Some modern models also come equipped with cooling fans, making them perfect choices, especially during warmer days when you need extra warmth but don’t want to turn up your thermostat.
- Fuel Source: Electricity
- Pro: They offer an immediate heat source
- Con: They won’t heat a whole room
Read: Is electric heater harmful?
8. Active Solar Heating
The recent shift to more modern, sustainable home heating systems that use solar energy instead of fossil fuels is becoming more popular.
These Active Solar Heating Systems can either heat fluids in a centralized system for later use or directly transfer the warmth into your interior space with radiant floor tiles alone.
- Fuel Source: Solar energy
- Pro: It is friendly to the environment
- Con: It relies on traditional heating to operate
Frequently Asked Questions on Electric Heating Systems
What Is the Most Efficient Electric Heating System?
With infrared panels and an electric radiator, you can enjoy an energy-efficient way to keep your home at just the right temperature.
Are Electric Radiators Expensive to Run?
Electric radiators are as effective as thermal comfort, but they’re not cheap. It’s been estimated that running costs for an electric radiator can be up to three-and-a-half times more expensive than heating with a gas boiler and standard heaters.
So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to the different electric heating systems. Hopefully, this has helped demystify things a little and armed you with the information you need to decide which system is best for your home.
Keep in mind that, as with all things related to home improvement, it’s always best to consult with a professional before making any decisions – they will be able to assess your specific needs and give you tailored advice. With that in mind, happy heating.
Read: Are kerosene heaters safe to breathe?