As you look for efficient and reliable options for Des Moines heating, you have several types of heating systems to consider installing. The right choice for you depends on your budget, home’s size and layout, and personal heating preferences. Below you can learn about some top options for heating appliances that work well for many Des Moines households.
Furnace
A furnace is likely the most common and affordable heating system used in Des Moines homes. This heating appliance sits in a central location and uses natural gas, propane, or electricity to heat air and circulate it through ductwork into different areas of your home. Furnaces are available in a range of efficiency ratings and advanced smart controls allow you to closely regulate temperature and airflow.
When properly sized and installed, a furnace provides reliable and fairly energy-efficient heating. Upfront costs tend to be lower than some heating systems too. Most homeowners find furnaces strike a good balance between performance and value. Just be sure to have your furnace serviced annually to keep it running efficiently for years to come.
Boiler
Boilers are another popular heating appliance in households. Unlike a furnace though, a boiler heats water rather than air. This hot water then circulates through pipes and radiators or in-floor tubing to heat your home.
The main benefit of a boiler is it provides consistent and comfortable radiant heating without using ductwork. You also get zonable temperature control, allowing you to customize heat in different rooms. Natural gas boilers offer the best efficiency and value for most homeowners. An electric boiler could suit homes without gas access.
Heat Pump
As an electrically-powered heating and cooling system in one, a heat pump is a versatile option to install in your home. During warmer months, it operates just like a central air conditioner. But a heat pump can also extract latent heat from outdoor air in winter and pump it indoors to maintain comfortable temperatures.
Ductless mini-split heat pumps allow for affordable zone heating and cooling too. While heat pumps often cost more upfront than some heating systems, their year-round functionality and long-term savings on energy bills make them a smart investment for many homeowners.
Geothermal Heat Pump
For the most energy efficient and environmentally-friendly heating available, a geothermal heat pump is worth considering. This type of system relies on underground loops that transfer heat between the earth and your home. Unlike air temperatures that fluctuate greatly, the temperature just below the earth’s surface stays fairly constant year-round.
A geothermal heat pump uses a liquid solution circulating through underground pipes to absorb warmth from the earth in winter and discharge heat back into the ground in summer. This provides exceptionally efficient heating and cooling. While geothermal systems require higher upfront costs for installation, they can reduce energy bills by up to 60% over decades of reliable operation.
As you explore good heating options for your Des Moines home, weigh the pros and cons of different systems based on performance, energy savings, features, and budget. Consult with qualified local HVAC professionals as well to decide what type of heating appliance makes the most sense for your needs and comfort preferences. They can assess your home and provide tailored advice on the best system to install.