shutterstock_166297982As people become more conscious of green ways to heat their home, an increasing number of environmentally and budget-friendly options have become available. If you are looking for ways to make your home more energy efficient, here are some things to consider. Space Heaters are NOT Your Friend

Many people think that using a space heater is an energy efficient way to heat a home. They can heat the small area that they are currently in while leaving the rest of the home that does not need to be heated, cold. This, however, is a myth. Space heaters are not only energy suckers, but they are also dangerous when left unattended. A space heater should never be a permanent heating solution – it should always be something for the short term to either use for portable heat or until you get a permanent heating solution.

Furnaces and Boilers Have Evolved

If your furnace of boiler is more than ten years old, it might be time for an upgrade. While the upfront cost might be hefty, the money you will save in the long run and the green aspect of the way new furnaces and boilers work will be well worth the cost. The upgraded design of boilers and furnaces are more energy efficient and environmentally sound. Newer models will cut your heating and cooling bills while giving optimum performance for your home. Any time a new heating system is being considered, have your home evaluated and updated for maximum energy efficiency. Choose a system that has an electronic ignition versus a pilot light. An electronic ignition alone is more energy efficient and will cut your heating bill in the long run.

The Skinny on Other Heating Sources

There are several different energy efficient options for heating your home as well.  Wood stoves are great but take a lot of work. Solar heat, while an incredibly green and energy efficient method, is more dependable as a secondary heating source rather than the primary. Heat pumps are the most energy-efficient option on the market but vary in cost dependent on the source of the heat (ground or air). When making decisions that make your home heating more energy efficient, there are lots of options to choose from.

Choosing the best heating options for your home can be confusing. When attempting to navigate these choices, it’s best to engage a heating contractor with expertise in new heating systems. They can outline the pros and cons of each choice and how that particular system will fit your need and your budget. Engaging a heating specialist for advice on a heating system choice can save you money and give you peace of mind in what you have installed in your home.