With so many more options available today than in years past, it is easier than ever to improve effectiveness of home heating and cut fuel costs. Due in part to the growing trend toward more energy efficient alternative heating choices, for the most cost effective heating solution possible. And enhanced environmentally friendly living, for an eco friendly house based on green building principles.
A Geothermal Heat System is a Good Place to Start
One great way to have an environmentally friendly house is to incorporate a geothermal heat system into home design. Naturally occurring geothermal activity provides one of the most energy efficient heat sources available.
This can be done by drilling a well and tapping into the underground water strata. And then circulating the already warm or hot water through the house via radiators - whether forced or passive - before returning it back to the ground. Providing geothermal heating flowing through the house by means of cost effective heating radiator units; a highly efficient eco friendly alternative to more conventional options.
Radiant Heat; Another Great Option!
Using a radiant heat product is another way to effectively heat a home. And because radiant heat is instantly absorbed by objects without having to heat the surrounding air - it provides quick warmth. Whether to spot treat a drafty area of a poorly insulated home, or heat the whole house through some type heating system controlled by a thermostat.
Radiant heat is nothing new; it has been used for centuries. In fact, it is the basis used for all heating systems. But because it does not use forced air - such as a forced air furnace or forced air heater, it is less drying - to wood furniture as well as a person's skin. It is also a healthier alternative because it does not spread germs, dust, pollen, and other hazardous airborne particles the way a forced air hot system can.
Consider the following options for radiant heat:
- In floor radiant heat - a silent out of sight heat source installed under flooring; using electric resistant cables, or else tubing that circulates heated water. Warming the room from the floor up, with less heat loss; allowing you to run room thermostat at a lower temperature - reducing energy costs up to whopping 40%!
- Radiant heaters - whether a radiant natural gas heater or an electric radiant heater; portable or wall mount. A radiant space heater is more cost-effective than an electric forced air heater, and temperature easier to control. Designed to independently spot-heat zones in the home, a portable radiant heater or one that is wall mounted can help supplement heat while saving the homeowner discomfort and money.
- Special bathroom warming radiant heat units - such as a heated toilet seat or bathroom heater towel warmer. Common luxuries used in European bathrooms for decades, such features are becoming increasingly popular in America. Designed to add aesthetic appeal and ambient heat; to the room as well as the object of its intended use.
- Radiant baseboard heating - an electric radiant baseboard heater system, considered a rival for traditional gas furnaces as a primary home heating source. Saving on natural resources while providing cost-effective direct heat that is easier to control.
- Replace halogen spotlights with LED spotlights instead. Why? They are more energy efficient, and last longer.
- Recent studies show that by using less hot water to wash laundry you can reduce electric consumption by 20% to 40%; depending upon family size and amount of laundry washed. Note: towels, underwear, baby clothes, sportswear, and bedding should still be washed in hotter water to ensure proper cleaning.
- Use cold cathode fluorescent light bulbs (CCFL) whenever possible; more beneficial than regular fluorescent. Just as energy efficient, CCFL lighting also has a longer lifespan, runs cooler, and requires less mercury than conventional fluorescent lighting. And unlike other types of fluorescent bulbs, they also can be used with dimmer switches. A big plus! Available in standard tubes, bulbs, and spotlights. As well as car headlamps, and lanterns.
- Monitor electricity use in your home with the help of an energy meter or monitor; designed to reveal how much electricity each appliance and household electronic device uses.
- Make sure your home is adequately weatherized to keep cold out during winter months, and heat from entering the home during hot summer months. This alone can save hundreds of dollars each year.
- Opt for double or triple paned windows instead of single. Or even if you keep single paned windows, add storm panels during the winter; increasing window energy efficiency by 50 percent. Note: the federal government and many cities offer some type of home improvement tax credit to help defray costs, for updating windows to be more energy-efficient. Check to see if this is true in your area.
When purchasing heating systems for your home - geothermal, radiant, or otherwise - always look for energy star, energy efficient units. You'll not only save money on consumed energy, but might qualify for an energy star tax credit, incentive rebate, or other type incentive reward.
More Ways to Cut Down on Energy and Heating Costs
Of course there are many other ways to cut down on fuel costs and make your home more energy efficient. Visit our extensive article data base for more articles relating to this subject.
How to Find Just the Right Contractor for your House Heating Project
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