As a homeowner, choosing the right heating and cooling system is pivotal to ensure consistent comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. Beyond the system itself is also the choice of energy source, which given the hike in utility bills is another important consideration.
We’ve compiled the pros and cons of various system options and energy sources to help you to make an informed decision on which is best for your home. Whether you’re exploring options for your primary place of residence, or an investment property, it pays to do your research.
Let’s check out the following systems:
- Hydronic heating system
- Central heating (aka ducted heating)
- Free standing heating and cooling
Hydronic heating system
Used widely throughout Europe, hydronic heating is fast becoming the go-to choice for Australian homeowners for heating and cooling. In a nutshell, water is warmed and circulated through sealed pipes to warm products such as radiators, underfloor heating, and towel rails. Radiant heat is produced, which warms the objects in a space rather than the air itself, resulting in a long lasting, comfortable warmth.
A primary energy source for hydronic heating is often a high efficiency gas boiler, with some models also instantly heating domestic water. Electric powered heat pumps are another option for powering hydronic systems, which can further increase efficiency and maximise the reduction of running costs.
The pros of hydronic heating
There are many benefits to this sustainable approach to home heating and cooling, but the top three big hitters are:
- Efficiency: up to 35 percent more energy efficient than ducted heating, hydronic definitely leads the pack. There is less wastage overall, which also reduces bills.
- Healthiest heating: with no fans blowing dust particles and other airborne pollutants around the home, there’s no surprise that many people with allergies and asthma choose hydronic heating as their preferred system for temperature control. It’s also why health care settings increasingly have this system installed as it reduces the spread of bacteria and viruses.
- Lower running costs: As hydronic is more efficient, your operation costs are reduced. You can further lower your bills by considering an electric heat pump to power your system and pairing it with solar panels and a battery for maximum efficiency. It’s entirely possible with this set up to not have any energy bills to pay at all.
The downside to hydronic systems
The main challenge people face with hydronic heating and cooling is the initial investment required to purchase and install the products needed. The costs are generally higher than other options due to the requirements of the system. Underfloor heating and radiator installation and the associated pipework to new or existing homes can be costly, especially if you are retrofitting into an existing property.
Central heating
Also referred to as ducted heating, this system is widely used in homes across Australia for heating and cooling. Many homeowners look to ducted heating and cooling over hydronic systems because it is usually cheaper to purchase and install. In terms of energy sources, central heating can be powered by gas or electricity.
The pros of central heating
- Zoning: Many ducted systems can be zoned so you are able to adjust the temperature via thermostat for each space your system supports. This can increase the efficiency.
- Whole home comfort: The biggest perk of central heating is that you can have heating and cooling throughout your entire home.
The downsides to central heating
- Running costs: Depending on the fuel type (gas or electric), operation costs can be high and less efficient than other systems, such as hydronic.
- Maintenance: Ducted systems require regular cleaning and servicing of ducts to maintain efficiency and safety as build up of dust and debris can be a potential fire hazard and impact how well your system runs.
- Air quality: As this approach relies on fans to circulate warm or cool air, there is a higher chance of dust and other airborne pollutants being spread around your home, which can compromise general wellbeing.
Free standing heating and cooling
Portable electric or gas heating and cooling products is another option for shifting the temperature in your home. Be mindful that some states have regulations in place for new builds where they are no longer to be hooked up to gas supply, but electricity only. Check with your local council to confirm which energy sources are accessible at locations you are considering purchasing or building at.
Free standing products include blow heaters and fans, portable air conditioning units, gas and oil radiators.
The pros of free standing products
- Affordability: Upfront purchase prices for a blow heater or fan are much cheaper than installing complete systems.
- Flexibility: It’s easy to move products around from room to room as needed and if you’re renting or not planning on being in a property longer term, you can take your fans and heaters with you.
The downsides to free standing heating and cooling products
- Safety concerns: There’s a risk of carbon monoxide leakage if gas heaters aren’t properly maintained and electric blow heaters are still a high risk for home fires. Free standing solutions can also pose as trip hazards.
- Less efficient: Where you might save on your initial purchase, you’ll likely pay for it in energy bills. Blow heaters and fans for example are not particularly energy efficient in most cases.
- Inconsistent temperatures: A small stand alone unit won’t be able to heat or cool your entire home, usually just the immediate area around it.
Which heating option is best for your home?
When it comes to selecting a heating and cooling system for your home, hydronic heating emerges as a frontrunner on many fronts, especially for those prioritising energy efficiency, environmental impact, and long-term savings. However, the best choice depends on individual needs, including immediate budget constraints, maintenance willingness, and environmental priorities.
While the initial set up costs can often be a higherfor a hydronic heating system than a free standing solution or ducted heating system, you really need to consider the ongoing maintenance and running costs of any option. It’s also vital that you investigate the heat sources available to you in your local area.
The team at Hunt Heating have been providing expert advice and premium products for home heating and cooling for over twenty years and are Australia’s leaders in hydronic climate control. Get in touch today to discuss your home heating requirements.
