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What’s the Cheapest Way to Heat a Home During Winter?

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What’s the Cheapest Way to Heat a Home During Winter?

Are you tired of your heating bill spiking every time the winter weather hits? If only you knew the cheapest and most efficient way to heat your home, you could save some money each month. Lucky for you, Fenwick Home Services is home to your local heating experts. You can’t heat your home for free, but our tips below outline the cheapest way to heat a home during winter.

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What Are the Different Heating System Types?

Gas Furnace

Gas furnaces are a popular heating appliance throughout the U.S. because gas is a widely available and affordable fuel source. They’re also a reliable heat source in the case of a power outage, as they don’t rely on electricity. Unfortunately, these systems have a few downsides too:

  • They require routine maintenance
  • They pose the health hazard of gas and carbon monoxide leaks
  • They are not environmentally friendly, as gas isn’t a renewable resource

The average gas furnace is more affordable to install and operate monthly, but routine furnace maintenance costs can add up quickly.

Electric Furnace

Since electric furnaces run on electricity—which is a renewable energy source—they are known for being energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Unlike gas furnaces, electric furnaces are not a reliable source of heat during a power emergency. If the electricity goes out, your electric furnace can only run with the help of a backup generator.

The average electric furnace installation and maintenance is affordable, but it is more expensive to operate monthly due to electricity rates.

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Portable Electric Heater

A portable electric heater is a quick and convenient solution for your home heating needs. These appliances are extremely affordable and require no installation, which is great for renters who either can’t or don’t want to install an entire heating system. However, portable heaters are designed for short-term use in small spaces—so they aren’t a great long-term solution.

The average portable electric heater has a small upfront price, is free to install, and requires minimal maintenance. It does, however, cost more to operate monthly. It’s also important to make sure you do not leave these running while unattended, as they are a potential fire hazard.

Reverse-Cycle Air Conditioner

Reverse-cycle air conditioners—also called heat pumps—feature dual heating and cooling operations. Since this appliance is a single unit and doesn’t require separate heating and cooling units, you can save money on maintenance and repairs. The only downside is purchasing and installing a heat pump costs more upfront. They tend to cost significantly less to maintain and operate monthly.

heat pump outside a home

What’s the Cheapest Way to Heat a House Without Using Gas?

When determining the cheapest way to heat your home without gas, you must consider both the upfront cost and the operating cost. While electric furnaces are relatively inexpensive to install, the electricity they require to operate is less cost-effective over time. On the other hand, reverse-cycle air conditioners are the most expensive appliance to install, but their energy efficiency offers better long-term cost savings. The decision all comes down to how much you’re willing to pay upfront vs. down the line.

At the end of the day, a reverse-cycle air conditioner is the most cost-efficient way to heat a home. Although this gas heating alternative has the highest upfront cost by far, its optimal energy efficiency makes monthly operation costs low. These long-term operation cost savings will eventually offset the initial purchase and installation costs.

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3 Tips to Keep Your House Warm in the Winter

Here are three things homeowners can do to keep heating costs down during the winter months.

  1. Install a programmable thermostat: Programmable thermostats offer optimal temperature control so you only use heat when you need it.
  2. Keep doors and windows sealed: Keep doors closed, and windows sealed to prevent heat from escaping your home.
  3. Use rugs and curtains: Heat is easily lost through insulated floors and windows. Place rugs throughout your home to absorb the heat, so it sticks around longer. You can also hang thick curtains to prevent heat from leaking through your windows.

living room with rug and curtains

Florida’s Leading Home Heating Contractor

Are you ready to make the switch to a new home heating system? Fenwick Home Services has you covered with top-notch heating maintenance, repairs, and installations. Our HVAC technicians are even available 24/7 in case of a heating emergency. Book with us today to get started.

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