The most efficient and cost-effective heating system is always going to be the one that offers some degree of radiant heat. Compared to convection, radiant heat lasts longer and isn't affected by air movement, and yet does a similarly stellar job at keeping us cosy.
Simply put, natural gas fired units are the least expensive to operate of all central heating units. When efficiency is considered, both gas and oil boilers are less efficient than electric ones. Of course the cost of electricity continues to increase so the overall cost may not be less than fossil fuel fired units.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Even a few feet underground, temperatures remain between about 45 to 60 degrees all year. Either water or a refrigerant solution circulates through the loop, picking up heat or releasing it as necessary. Geothermal systems provide the most efficient type of heating.
You can easily save energy in the winter by setting the thermostat to around 68°F to 70°F while you're awake and setting it lower while you're asleep or away from home.
To save energy and save on heating costs, the Department of Energy (DOE) says to set the indoor temperature between 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit when you're home, and drop the temperature at night or when you're away.
This shows natural gas is the cheapest type of heating to run and heating oil is the most expensive way to heat a home.
As gas is generally cheaper than electricity – and modern gas boilers are more energy-efficient than their older counterparts – gas central heating systems are often the most cost-effective solution for heating your home.
Electric resistance heating is 100% energy efficient in the sense that all the incoming electric energy is converted to heat. However, most electricity is produced from coal, gas, or oil generators that convert only about 30% of the fuel's energy into electricity.
What type of heater puts out the most heat? The type of heater that puts out the most heat depends on various factors, but generally, infrared heaters (such as the radiant heaters in this article) are known for emitting a significant amount of heat.
Conclusion. So, after looking at the different types of electric heaters available, due to its lower power-output, halogen heaters are the cheapest electric heaters to run. Shop our range of Halogen Heaters here .
Reverse cycle air-conditioners provide convective heat and are the most energy-efficient heater and cooler of all types, irrespective of fuel source.
Furnace and Boiler Systems
The U.S. Energy Department says furnaces and boilers are the most common heating systems in the country. According to David, they're also the most economical – at least those powered by natural gas. “Natural gas is still the least costly form of energy in most of the country,” David says.
Using electricity as a fuel source eliminates the risk of harmful or noxious byproducts, such as carbon monoxide, as the furnace doesn't use any products that can result in their production. Efficient. Strictly from a heat-loss perspective, electric heating is one of the most efficient sources on the market.
Oil-filled heaters
According to technical service manager at Pimlico Plumbers Bennett, these are the most efficient on the whole. They use an electrical current within thermal oil, heating the oil and circulating it around the heater, a bit like water in a radiator.
Heat pump heaters and reverse cycle air conditioning units are the most energy efficient heating system you can buy, compared to a conventional electric heater.
In colder climates, the heat pump works harder to extract heat from the outside air, leading to higher energy use and increased bills. Similarly, in hotter climates, the cooling function of the heat pump will be used more frequently, resulting in higher electricity consumption.