Comparing Heating Options for Oklahoma City, OK Homes: Furnaces, Heat Pumps, and More

01/18/2024

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Oklahoma’s winter lows are ranked the 33rd coldest in the United States, with record temperatures going as low as -31 Fahrenheit. With Oklahoma City facing such chilly temperatures, understanding good heating maintenance is critical.

One of the best ways to do so is to know what heating maintenance services you’ll need. To that end, it’s best to understand your home’s heating system. That way, you know you’re contacting the best Oklahoma City HVAC company for the job.

If you’re curious about the different types of heaters, we’re here to help. Read on to learn more about some of the most common types of home heaters you’ll find in Oklahoma.

Furnaces

Furnaces seem old-fashioned to some, but they’re still in many homes. Older homes more often have furnaces in them, as removing them and installing central air conditioning is a costly process.

Furnaces typically use natural gas, though there are different types available. These heaters use a heat exchanger to heat the air before pushing it through the ducts of the home. From there, a fan called a blower will help disperse the heat throughout your home.

Pros of Furnaces

One of the biggest upsides is that furnaces are among the most efficient types of heaters. In short, this means that they won’t need as much energy or fuel to generate heat as other types of heaters will.

Furnaces are also affordable. You’ll have options between electric and natural gas furnaces.

Natural gas furnaces are more expensive, but are the most efficient. Electric furnaces are more affordable and fit most modern households better.

Downsides of Furnaces

One primary con of furnaces comes from choosing natural gas. Some homes aren’t already set up for natural gas, meaning you’ll need to install a pipeline into your home.

Doing so can raise safety issues for some homeowners. Some don’t prefer natural gas as it can pose a risk of leaking or explosion. There are also environmental concerns about natural gas.

With an electric furnace, there aren’t as many concerns or downsides. A single furnace may not be enough to keep your home warm during intense winters.

Furnaces are also louder than most options. If you use a furnace, try to keep it far away from common or sleeping areas.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps function similarly to air conditioning, and in many cases, they’re the same. Heat pumps are typically AC units and heating units mixed into one. As such, many homeowners prefer heat pumps as they serve a dual purpose.

When it’s hot, a heat pump will grab the air from inside your home and run it through the pump. The heat is removed using a refrigerant and is then pumped back into your home.

During cold days, the same process is followed for heating the air. Heat pumps never pull air from outside regardless of the temperature.

Pros of Heat Pumps

A primary upside of heat pumps is that they’re virtually silent. These pumps pull in and push out air, but need little more than a fan to do so.

They also excel at filtering air in comparison to others. For people with respiratory issues like asthma, this makes heat pumps a great choice.

Downsides of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are also more expensive than other options. They can reach well into the five-digit sums depending on what you choose.

You’ll have plenty of choices, namely air-source, split-duct, and geothermal. However, heat pumps are not as efficient as furnaces. In some cases, they could increase the amount you spend on your monthly electric bill.

Other Methods of Heating

Heat pumps, central heating, and furnaces are the most common, but not the only options. Here are some other options sometimes offered by HVAC companies in Oklahoma City.

Radiators

Radiators are less common in Oklahoma. These were popular in New England and some other areas, especially in complex living situations like condos or apartments.

Radiators are constructions in the common area of your home, usually made of metal. Your heating system will heat the radiator, which will then generate heat into the room. They pose a safety risk, aren’t as efficient, and have widely been replaced.

Boilers

Boilers, as the name suggests, boil water in a tank. They then pump that water through to small radiators throughout your home.

Boilers are less efficient than most options. They also aren’t ideal for heating large areas. Additionally, they can increase your water bill along with your electricity.

If you live in a smaller space, boilers are a good option. Make sure you’re practicing proper heating maintenance to ensure the boiler is running effectively.

Space Heaters

Space heaters are not a good replacement for a whole-home heating system. Space heaters are small, portable heaters that usually plug into an outlet. From there, they heat up a relative space.

Space heaters are often used in small rooms, such as bathrooms, offices, and bedrooms. They’re great for keeping these areas warm, but do not suffice in larger areas.

There are also large-scale space heaters. These are good temporary solutions, but shouldn’t replace your primary central heating.

Performing Heating Maintenance

No matter what heating option you choose, heating maintenance is critical. Your maintenance will change depending on what type of heater you have.

One common maintenance act is to make sure your vents are clean and your filters are changed. Clogged filters and vents can make it so air doesn’t travel through your property as quickly. They also can cause a fire hazard in extreme cases.

If you’re unsure of what maintenance to perform, trust in professionals. Looking into your favorite Oklahoma City HVAC company’s services can help make sure your home is properly cared for.

Finding the Best Companies

At Advantage, we’re experts in handling your plumbing, heating, and cooling. We have offices in Sapulpa, Stillwater, and Oklahoma City to service your every need.

Advantage Plumbing Heating and Cooling has served Stillwater and the surrounding area for more than five decades. Contact us today to see how our skilled technicians can service you.

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