subject: Choosing an Alternative Heating System [print this page] Choosing an Alternative Heating System Choosing an Alternative Heating System
Most people, when choosing a heating system for their home, decide upon a standard gas, propane or electric furnace. But, just because these are often the most popular choices doesn't mean they are the only game in town. There are also alternative heating systems which can be quite useful and energy efficient under certain circumstances. Here are a few heating system choices that you might not have thought about.
Hot Water Boilers
Hot water boiler heating systems have been around for a long time. However, just as is the case with most other heating systems, they have undergone a gradual evolution that has made them more desirable and efficient for home heating needs. There are both gas-fired and steam boilers available, but the most popular and efficient choice is the gas fired hot-water boiler. These systems use either baseboard or slab-style radiators to deliver the heat throughout the home. Water is heated at the boiler unit. Then it travels throughout the home through the pipe and radiator system, warming the home. This style of heating system is very quiet and many people prefer this system because they don't create drafts, noise or dust. There is also no need for ductwork with this kind of heating system. However, the lack of ductwork can also cause some difficulties if there is a desire for whole-house air conditioning.
Wood Stoves
Wood stoves tend to be most popular as auxiliary heating systems. People look at them as a way to help save money on traditional fuel costs, especially if they have easy access to a supply of wood. They also can create a pleasant atmosphere and ambiance within a home, which many people enjoy. There have been dramatic improvements in wood stoves over the years. In 1988, there were regulations passed by the EPA that govern the emissions and efficiency of wood stoves. The wood stoves currently on the market include pellet, catalytic and non-catalytic stoves. The most common variety is the non-catalytic stove, which generally has an efficiency rating somewhere between 50 and 60 percent. However, catalytic stoves are usually much more fuel efficient, with an 80 percent efficiency rating being quite commonplace. When choosing a wood stove, you will want to make sure it is properly sized for the living space you wish to heat. If the stove is too large, the room will get too hot unless you run it in a constantly choked condition. While running it in this mode will help control the level of heat, it also will increase emissions and reduce overall performance and fuel efficiency. If a stove is too small, the room will of course feel too cold.
Room Heaters
Room heaters are also becoming a popular choice, especially for situations where it is desirable to keep one room in the house warmer than the rest. These heaters are also popular for rooms that have been purposely shut off from the main heating system because they are seldom used. These small room-sized heaters can be used whenever needed to keep a single room comfortably warm, even if the rest of the home is cooler.
