Choosing a heating system is an important decision to make, as it locks in your heating costs for over a decade. A system’s energy performance depends on the fuel available to you and how much space you need to heat.
For most Victorians, electric reverse cycle split systems are the most energy efficient, lowest cost heating option available that generates the lowest greenhouse emissions. If your house has a rooftop solar PV system, the benefits of heating with electric reverse cycle systems can be even greater.
There are two types of heating systems, central heating or room (or space) heating. If you need to heat your whole house, central heating would be more efficient. Ideally with a zoning capability, that allows you to heat only certain areas of your home.
If you only want to heat a certain area, a room heater would be best.
Generally, it’s cheaper to use a room heater. But it really depends on how big a space you’re heating. The larger the area, the larger the system you’ll need. The wrong sized system won’t heat your home efficiently and will cost you more money.
If you can, get a supplier to visit and measure your home for a quote. If that’s not possible, provide them with a plan of your house, showing dimensions of the areas you want to heat. Also provide information about the insulation you use in your home.
Common central heating options include gas ducted heating, gas hydronic heating, electric ducted reverse cycle air conditioning, electric multi-split reverse-cycle, or electric in-slab heating.
Common room heating options include gas room heating, electric room reverse-cycle air conditioners, electric portable heater, electric fixed heater and finally, a wood fire.
For anyone who lives in this region, a wood fire offers a great alternative, provided you have access to a good source of firewood. There is nothing more relaxing than sitting front of a fire place watching the flames dance about as they warm your feet.
It is my preferred option. I keep two fires going to warm the entire house, one in the lounge and one in the kitchen.
If you are looking at wood fires as your preferred option, drop into Barbeques Galore in Corio Street, Shepparton or call on 5821 0550, they have an excellent range at great prices.
