How do you choose the right system for you and your home? Nowadays there are a wide array of types, styles and variations. All of which come with their pros and cons. It is worth noting that with most of these systems you can be integrated with all types of radiators and underfloor heating.
We recommend you discuss your needs (and preferences) with an experienced and qualified plumber although here are the 4 more popular with their pros and cons to get you started:
- Oil Heating
The more traditional heating system where an oil-fired boiler heats water that fills your central heating system via radiators and through your taps.
- Pros of Oil Heating
- Most modern condensing boilers can be 90% efficient or more provided they are regularly serviced
- Cons of Oil Heating
- As oil is a fossil fuel, this is not a sustainable source of energy and releases carbon dioxide into the environment which contributes to climate change
- The price of oil can fluctuate significantly in particular when we see macro-economic events
2. Gas Heating
Similar to the Oil systems, natural gas is also a source of energy that is fed into your central heating system and radiators however gas is fed directly into your system by a direct pipe feed
- Pros of Gas Heating
- Like Oil, Gas is a highly efficient fuel and it is also fed directly into your home so no need to store any fuel or run out unexpectedly
- Cons of Gas Heating
- It is also a fossil fuel and therefore not a sustainable source of energy
- Given the volatility of gas itself, it is very important to have it regularly serviced and maintained by a registered gas installer
3. Electric – Storage Heaters
These types of heaters contain heated bricks that use off-peak electricity which is slowly released during the day
- Pros of Electric Heating
- Typically these are cheaper to install over other forms of central heating and do not require as much maintenance.
- Cons of Electric Heating
- Given the fluctuations of the cost of electricity, these systems can be more expensive to run and therefore not as efficient as other heating systems.
- They can also be difficult to control as you need to pre-empt or plan the heat that you are going to need versus other systems where you can pop on for an hour or too to heat the home up
4. Solar Thermal Energy
Renewable heat technology is becoming more and more popular as an alternative heating system. It involves installing solar thermal equipment, most likely to the sun facing part of your home (most often the roof) and filled with special chemicals to absorb the energy from the sun.
- Pros of Solar Thermal Heating
- It is a sustainable source of energy and therefore good for the planet by reducing your carbon footprint
- Since you are generating your own energy for heating it can reduce your bills by up to 70%
- Most of these systems come with multi-year warranties and require little maintenance
- The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offer up to €1200 towards the cost of installing a solar thermal system to all homeowners, including landlords, whose homes were built and occupied before 2011. For more information, go to: www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/solar-water-heating-grant/.
- Cons of Solar Thermal
- The installation and upfront cost of this system can be more expensive than other systems
- Not every home is a suitable candidate for Solar Thermal Heating
To learn more, contact us at Kieron Murphy Plumbing & Heating on mobile: 087 276 8007 or email us: murphykieron@ymail.com to discuss what type of heating system is most suited for your needs and home.
