When building a new home, it’s important to consider home heating early in the process as it can save time and money to install it before the house is finished. But with so many options, where do you start?
Start by considering all types of home heating systems: gas or wood fires, heat pumps, or ducted systems. You should also consider if you want underfloor heating.
Heat pumps are a great energy-efficient way to heat your home, and are generally the most cost-effective way to warm your home. They can be installed just about anywhere in the home and with modern designs can blend in and be non-intrusive. With a heat pump you also get the added bonus of air conditioning, meaning that during New Zealand’s hot summers you can keep your home cool.
Other benefits:
• Safe for children
• Thermostatically controlled
• Improved air quality for asthma and allergy suffers
• Cooling / dry mode can help reduce condensation
Wood fires are one of the most affordable forms of home heating. They have minimal running cost -- especially if you have access to free fire wood. They can heat the entire home, and are particularly efficient for homes with an open floor plan. A wood fire can also provide beautiful ambience and a warm crackling sound in the room – perfect for those cold winter nights.
Other benefits:
• Not dependent on electricity
• Some wood burners have wetback systems which heat the household’s hot water
• Lots of different options and styles
• Renewable energy source
Gas fires are a great way to enjoy the ambience a fire creates without the hassle and mess of firewood. They are a versatile and convenient way to heat your home, and are much more user friendly than a wood fire. There are no limitations as to where a gas fire can be installed, and they can be designed to fit into any style of home.
Other benefits:
• Wood effect without manual work or labour
• Thermostat controlled
• Quick to heat
• Gas is often cheaper than electricity
Ducted home heating systems provide heat throughout the house and offer both heating and cooling. The location of the ducts is dependent on the space available. A ducted system can also be hidden with only small vents visible.
Other benefits:
• Thermostatically controlled
• Energy efficient
• Safe for children
• Healthy home
• Improved air quality for asthma and allergy suffers
• Cooling / dry mood can help reduce condensation
Now you know what your options are, you can consider what type of heating will be right for your home, or if you'll need multiply systems. Do your homework and talk to specialist heating professionals. Together you can make sure your new system will make your home more comfortable and reduce energy costs. At Custom Construction we work with Climate, they offer a wide range of home-heating systems and are our “go to guys” for any home heating. Lastly don't forget to ask about insulation, to keep all that warm air in!