Lower Fuel Costs Without Compromising Home Comfort

With the economy in the doldrums, everyone is looking for ways to lower their heating and cooling costs

. After you have already done the small things to save money, like turning down the thermostat, installing energy-efficient window dressings, and sealed up those drafty spaces, you may want to go further. If you want to experience long-term savings, you should consider replacing or retrofitting your existing heating and cooling system. Three systems that are gaining popularity are: hybrid, geothermal heating and cooling, and solar heating and cooling.

Hybrid Systems Basics

A hybrid system, the most popular of the three systems, is also called a dual-fuel system because it utilizes two fuel sources. It uses an electric heat pump coupled with either a gas boiler, oil furnace, or a gas furnace. The system will automatically switch between fuel sources to use the most cost-efficient fuel. The settings for the automation depend upon the home comfort you desire, the seasonal temperature range, and the utility rate patterns. These settings are done by your dealer or installer, so be sure to communicate to them your expectations for home comfort. During the colder months, the system uses a unit located outside the home to absorb heat and pull it inside. The warm air is then circulated throughout the house. During the warm months, it transfers the warm inside air to the outside to create a cooler atmosphere indoors.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems Basics

A geothermal heating and cooling system consists of a heat pump that uses the earth's temperature to heat or cool water or refrigerant that cycle through underground pipes. It uses the constant temperature of the earth, which is independent of the air temperature which fluctuates. The heat pump is installed indoors while conventional air-to-air heat pumps are installed outdoors. Because geothermal heating and cooling systems do not use air, it does not need fans to circulate air over the compressor coils. It uses a quiet circulation pump and a compressor to move the refrigerant; therefore, it operates quietly and more efficiently. Geothermal heating and cooler systems tend to last longer and they require very little maintenance.

Solar Heating and Cooling Systems Basics

You can choose between two types of solar heating and cooling systems. An active solar heating and cooling system uses either liquid or air that collects in a hydronic collector. This system collects and absorbs heat from the sun and transfers it directly into the home or a storage system to be distributed throughout the home where it is needed. Solar systems can be used with absorption heat pumps and coolers, boilers with hot water radiators, or radiant heating systems.

People have used the active solar heating and cooling systems to reduce and even eliminate their need for electricity, propane, and oil heating. A passive solar heating and cooling system uses the power of the sun in a more indirect manner. You can create a passive system by installing precisely-designed overhangs, a white reflective roof, and reflective double-glazed windows. You can also incorporate landscaping that would provide a copious amount of shading and even install a photoelectric panel. One drawback to this system is that it is not as effective if you do not have adequate exposure to the sun. Solar heating and cooling systems require that you adhere to a regular maintenance schedule to keep the system from breaking down.

by: Scott Coster

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