When it comes to heating installation, you may think that there are only a few options available to you. However, with the advancements in HVAC technology over the past ten years, there are now more options available to you than ever before. 

Gas and Electric Furnaces 

Furnaces are one of the most popular heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in homes across the United States. Available in both gas and electric models, they're a reliable way to keep your home warm during the cold Philadelphia winter months. Many homeowners looking for a new heating system know they want a furnace, but they're torn between gas and electric.

While the cost of gas vs. electric varies, most people consider gas furnaces to be more energy efficient than electric furnaces. Gas furnaces will heat your home much faster than an electric furnace, making them a great choice for regions with colder winter temperatures.

If you're determined to invest in a furnace, you'll need to select an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating for your furnace. A minimum AFUE rating of 80 means that 80% of the energy used is heat and 20% is wasted. A mid-efficiency furnace has an AFUE rating between 90% and 93%, while a high-efficiency system is rated between 94% and 98.5%. A furnace with a higher AFUE rating will cost more , but in the long run it will save you money on your utility bills over the life of the furnace. So if you're planning on living in your home for many years, a high-efficiency system will give you the best financial return and should be your choice. 

Traditional Heat Pump 

What is a heat pump? A heat pump is a type of heating/cooling system that uses electricity instead of fossil fuels. It uses about 50% less energy than a typical electric furnace. A heat pump transfers or "pumps" heat rather than generating it, making it highly efficient as both a heating and cooling system. A ducted heat pump works like a central furnace, circulating conditioned air through ducts. 

Mini Split Technology 

The ductless mini-split uses the same technology as the heat pump. The only real difference is that the mini-split doesn't have ductwork. If your home has poor ductwork, or if you're in a newer home that doesn't have ductwork, this can be a great option.

Ductless air handlers are wall-mounted and can be installed in different rooms of your home. They offer great zone control, allowing your family members to adjust the temperature of rooms or zones to their liking. This eliminates the hassle of arguing over the temperature of a room or zone.

If you're still in doubt about which system is best for your home, don't hesitate to ask the professionals for help. Leave your request for a free consultation and our experts will contact you to help you make the right choice.