The Benefits of a Central Heating System at Home

In countries with harsh winters, like Canada, central heating systems are a must. Central heating is a system where warmth is generated in a central location and distributed throughout a building or home.

While it may not be the most affordable option for Canadian homeowners, this type of home heating system has many benefits that easily outweigh the initial upfront cost. We’re here to break down the benefits of centralized heating and why it’s the best option for your home.

Read on to find out more.

8 Advantages of a Central Heating System

1. Enhanced Comfort

Some Canadian households experience unbalanced heating from room to room during the winter season. Usually, this issue stems from an incorrectly sized heating system; its size and output can’t keep up with the house’s layout, producing inefficiencies.

You won’t have to worry about this issue when you switch to central heaters—these ensure all nooks and crannies of your home are heated evenly, regardless of the outdoor temperature.

2. Improved Energy Efficiency

Annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) is a rating system that measures how furnaces and boilers burn fuel efficiently to heat a home. Central heaters with a gas furnace or boiler system have an AFUE rating of 90% and 85%, respectively. These values indicate that every time a central heater burns fuel, only 10% and 15% of energy turns into waste!

3. Easy to Control

A centrally heated home’s temperature is easier to control and set with a programmable thermostat. This allows you to regulate the entire home’s temperature without having to go from room to room to turn on, turn off or regulate the heat. It also helps optimize energy usage!

4. Reduced Noise

Unlike individual space heaters or window units, central heating systems operate quietly, minimizing disruptive noise levels in the home.

5. Better Air Quality

Central heat systems often incorporate air filtration and ventilation components, effective removing dust, allergens, and pollutants from the air. This results in cleaner and healthier indoor air, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and improving overall well-being for occupants.

6. More Cost Savings

While central heating systems are initially more expensive than other types, they can help you save money in the long run. The energy efficiency of central heaters lowers energy consumption, thus reducing your expenses.

7. Smart Feature Upgrades

Your centralized heating system could be compatible with smart devices like a smart thermostat, energy usage monitoring, and remote access controls. These upgrades offer convenience and customization options, allowing homeowners to easily adjust settings, optimize energy usage, and monitor system performance from anywhere via smartphone apps or web interfaces.

8. Increased Property Value

If you’re considering selling your home, central heating can increase the value of your property. Using your central heater as a selling point will attract buyers looking to save money without sacrificing comfort.

Types of Central Heating Systems

There are three major central heating systems that are widely used in Canada:

Furnaces

Furnaces are the most common type of centralized heating system in Canada. They are also the oldest residential heating system, which used to be fuelled by coal and wood. These days, furnaces are powered by natural gas, oil, or electricity.

Boilers

Boilers are another type of centralized heating system. They work by heating water and circulating the hot water or steam through a network of pipes to different parts of your home. The hot water or steam is then used to heat the rooms in your home.

Typically, the boiler sits on top of the furnace in the basement. The two systems share a flue, which is a pipe that carries exhaust gases out of your home. Boilers are often powered by natural gas or oil. They’re less common than furnaces, but are gaining popularity because they are generally more energy efficient and last longer, but are also more expensive.

Heat Pumps

A heat pump is more eco-friendly than other central heating systems because it doesn’t burn natural gas or any fuel to warm your home. It works by transferring heat from the air outside into your home. In the winter, it brings warm air into your home, and in the summer, it removes warm air from your home.

Install a New Central Heating System Today!

A central heating system can be a great addition to your home if you live in a region that experiences very cold winters. While they may be expensive to purchase and install, they offer many benefits that outweigh the initial cost.

LG Home Comfort is one of Ontario’s top providers of professional heating and cooling solutions. We’ll install, repair, and maintain your central heater to ensure it stays efficient and durable for years to come. Our team of expert technicians and are ready to offer the support you need—we even offer same-day services!

Get started with a free quote!

Frequently Asked Questions About Central Heat Systems

1. How much does it cost to install a central heating system?

The cost of installing central heating depends on the size of your home and the type of system you choose. Generally, expect to pay between $5,000 to $8,000 for the labour. It’s best to ask your contractor for a more accurate quote.

2. Is it worth installing a central heating system?

If you are concerned about your energy bills, installing a central heating system is worth the investment. These systems can be expensive to install but offer many benefits that will improve your quality of life. For example, a central heating system can help keep babies or small children warm and comfortable during the colder months.

3. How often should I have my central heating system maintained?

You should have your central heating system serviced at least once a year by a qualified technician. It helps ensure that your system runs efficiently and has no safety hazards. They can also determine if any parts need to be replaced before they become a bigger problem, which may cost you more money.

LG Home Comfort Furnace Maintenance Plans

4. How long does a central heating system last?

A central heating system’s average lifespan is about 15 to 20 years, depending on your system type and how well it’s maintained. If you live in an area with mild winters, your system may last longer than someone who lives in an area with cold winters because the central heater won’t be used as often.