Regarding your natural gas furnace, you have a number of options. Natural gas heating comes in many forms, and finding the system to fit your size and style of home is important for optimizing your costs and your heating efficiency in the winter months.
More Americans use natural gas heating systems than any other kind — 50% of the nation relies on gas exclusively for their heat utilities. Natural gas heats your home by creating warmth through hot water or forced air. Many years back, families had radiators attached to the wall with hot steam rushing through the pipes. The concept has remained the same but the technology has gotten more advanced.
So here’s the list of options you have now when you convert:
Natural Gas Heating Options:
- Forced Air – This common central heating system uses a natural gas burner to heat air. Cool air is channeled into a heat exchanger where it is warmed by a gas burner. This warm air is circulated through ductwork with blowers or fans.
- Hydronic – A hot water system that uses a gas boiler to create steam or hot water. The steam or hot water is circulated through pipes or tubes. These systems are typically baseboard components, radiators, or tubes built into the floor.
- Fireplace – Usually used in smaller spaces, a gas fireplace keeps a constant temperature but also presents a cosmetic upgrade. This system is preferable to a wood based stove or wood fireplace in that it is safer and more efficient.
- Space Heaters – Like gas fireplaces, these small units are designed for smaller spaces and areas of a larger house that isn’t tied into the central heating system (an addition for example). They can be wall-mounted or free standing and don’t necessarily need an outside vent.
A natural gas heating system might cost more to install but overall, the savings are found in the operating costs. Natural gas heating systems are warmer and don’t require as much energy to create heat. Contact your local installation company for recommendations on what system will minimize your cost and maximize your efficiency. Your home and your lifestyle will benefit dramatically from a switch to a more modern, more manageable natural gas heating system sooner rather than later.