Radiant Heating vs Furnace Heating in Barrington: Which is Best for You?

With summer coming to a close, the weather is likely going to cool down substantially in the coming weeks.

What does this mean? For most of us it means that it’s almost time to battle test our heating systems. It also means that, if you are thinking about installing a new heating system in your Barrington, Illinois home, now would be the perfect time to install one.

Two of the more popular heating options are furnaces and radiant heating. Both options have their benefits and their drawbacks. Are you trying to balance the advantages of installing either in your home? If so, then continue reading!

Installation Cost

The installation costs of furnaces are almost always cheaper than installation costs for radiant heating. This is true regardless of whether or not you already have air ducts in your home.

However, it should be noted that, over time, radiant heating systems will pay for themselves. Substantially more efficient than furnaces, radiant heating systems cost much less to power.

In the long run, radiant heating systems often end up being less expensive than furnaces. However, their high upfront costs might make them difficult for some individuals to purchase.

Lifespan

In terms of lifespan, radiant heating systems have furnaces substantially beat. Whereas most furnaces last for around 15 to 20 years, radiant heating systems can last for as long as 35 years. In some cases, that’s about double the lifespan.

This is just another way in which radiant heating systems pay for themselves over time. You’ll typically have to install two different furnaces in the same time period that you’ll only have to install one radiant heating system.

Energy Efficiency

As noted above, radiant heating systems are much more energy efficient than furnaces. This is mainly due to the fact that, while furnaces require the use of air ducts, radiant heating systems do not.

When hot air travels through your air ducts, some of it leaks out on its way to its destination. This is wasted energy, which leads to wasted money. Radiant heat does not have to travel through air ducts, resulting in very minimal heat loss.

Air Quality

If you’re looking for the best air quality possible, radiant heating is generally the better option. Radiant heating does little to nothing to negatively affect the overall quality of your air. Furnaces, on the other hand, tend to spread dust and other matter into your home environment, potentially spreading dreadful allergens.

The reason for this? Ducts. When hot air blows through your air ducts, it carries dust particles with it that can potentially contaminate otherwise pure air.

Aesthetics

Aesthetically-speaking, radiant heating is very tough to beat. This is because, apart from a boiler, most radiant heating systems are not visible at all. Installed underneath floors and inside walls, they are essentially hidden.

This isn’t to say that furnaces are aesthetically disruptive. Apart from the furnace itself, the only components of the furnace system you’ll see on a regular basis are its vents. These days, air vents are so commonplace that most people don’t even notice them.

In Need of Heating Contractor Company in Barrington, Illinois?

Are you interested in the installation of either a new furnace or the installation of a new radiant heating system? In need of heating contractor services in Barrington, Illinois? If so, we here at Lifeline Plumbing, Heating & Cooling have you covered.

Our team of HVAC specialists are experts in the installation of both furnaces and radiant heating systems, having installed them in homes and commercial buildings for years. We would be happy to bring your home the warmth and comfort you seek.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!