Heating your home makes up 42% of your utility bill. You can lower your utility costs by buying an energy efficient furnace. Shopping for home heating systems is a daunting task for beginners.

The good news is you can make your shopping experience pleasant. How? By checking energy facts sheets before buying a heating system.

Facts sheets for different models help you compare energy usage. Not only will you know the power rating but if the heating system is ENERGY STAR certified.

There are hundreds of models out there. Read on to find out how to choose the right home heating system for you. You may also seek the help of experts in boiler installation Nottingham, for specifically tailored advise.

1. Energy Source

The most popular type of energy source for the heating system is natural gas. Natural gas is available and most homes are already connected. There are areas where natural gas is not connected to homes. In such areas, homeowners usually opt for residential propane tanks.

Another fuel source that is popular is electricity. Most electric heating systems are available as a combo – AC and heating system. In summer, the AC moves heat from indoors to outdoors and in winter, the opposite happens. Heat pumps use warm air delivery systems to distribute heat around the house.

2. Type of Home Heating Systems

A popular type of home heating systems includes boiler heating system and electric heat pumps. Others are hybrid dual fuel heating systems and forced air furnaces.

Forced air furnace is available in three models:

• Base model
• Middle efficiency
• High efficiency

Powered by propane, they work by heating water.

Electric heat pumps use the same refrigerant cycle as an AC. In winter, the system draws heat from outdoors via the heat exchanger and distributes it in the home. You also have the new space heating boiler which provides efficient heating.

Hybrid dual fuel heating systems use a heat pump and furnace to distribute heat in your home.

3. System Efficiency Level

A system that is efficient lowers the cost of operation and annual energy costs. Not only that. It has a long lifespan. Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency is one of the standard ratings for heating systems.

This rating system is for heating systems powered by fuel oil, propane, and natural gas. For electric heating systems, the Heating Season performance Factor is normally used. Both efficiency rating systems measure the variations in temperatures and normal operating losses.

4. Heating System Compatibility

Are you remodeling your home? Shopping for an energy efficient heating system? Buy one that is compatible with the existing distribution system. For instance, if you had a forced air heating system with ductwork, buy a compatible model.

In case you want to replace your entire system, you don’t have to consider compatibility.

5. Ease of Management

Electric heating systems are compatible with a modern thermostat. As such, they are easy to manage and control compared to a traditional heater. As a homeowner, you have the choice of a smart thermostat and a programmable thermostat.

Programmable thermostats are advanced than manual ones. They can be programmed for different uses. With a programmable thermostat, you can save between 15% to 20% of your energy costs.

Smart thermostats are WiFi enabled. This means you can control the device from your smartphone or tablet. Using your smartphone, adjust your temperature and set heating schedules from your couch. You can click here to know more.

Buying the Right Home Heating System

Choosing the right home heating systems guarantees you savings on energy costs. When shopping, not only should you look for a system that is ENERGY STAR certified. But one that complements your home and needs.

Looking for more shopping tips on how to buy the best heating system for house? Check out our blog.