Baseboard and forced-air heating are still hot topics among many homeowners, and for a good reason, these heating systems differ significantly but also have some commonalities.
It is impossible to claim superiority over another. Since each homeowner considers many factors when choosing a heating system, choosing one can be a challenge. Discover how these two systems differ.
What is baseboard heating?
The heating system for your home is installed on your baseboards. To heat a room, heat rises from the floor to the ceiling. They can be operated by electric or hydronic heating.
When used to heat the entire home, electric baseboard heating tends to be less efficient and costlier as it heats a single room or office space. There is a disadvantage to baseboard heating compared to forced-air heating.
What is forced air?
Forced air heating and cooling use ducts, plenums, and vents to distribute temperature-controlled air. Home comfort is assured through even distribution of the air. Electricity, gas, oil, and propane are all possibilities for powering forced-air systems. Suppose you face any issue with your unit; never overlook the need for reliable heating repair in Garland. Speak to them and get the problem resolved.
Forced air heat, however, has its downsides. If you don’t maintain filters and ducts, it circulates allergens, and it warms a space quickly, but it doesn’t always heat uniformly.
What are the differences between forced air and baseboard heating?
Let’s examine the discussion of forced-air vs. baseboard systems. Air is blown throughout the structure to distribute heat or cool in homes using forced-air heating.
- Cost of installation
Installing forced-air systems requires HVAC professionals as well as several other tradespeople. This is a very invasive process, as ducts need to be run throughout the house. Cutting open walls can require sheetrocking, finishing, and painting them.
It can be messy and expensive to install a forced-air system, but you may decide that it’s worth it. You can significantly increase the value of your home with a system like this.
- Operating cost
Heating with baseboards is more expensive than heating with forced air. If you only need the heat occasionally, this higher operating cost can be justified.
Almost all baseboard heaters are powered by electricity. In other words, you cannot take advantage of more economical heating fuels, such as natural gas. When you seek HVAC repair in Garland, the professionals can explain the differences between the two in a much clearer way.
- Convenience and efficiency
The drawback of baseboard heaters is that you can heat one room at a time. Although some models can be hooked up to a central thermostat, most operate independently. You will need separate window units for cooling since baseboard heaters are only for heating.
Alternatively, forced-air systems offer both heating and cooling. Besides providing air conditioning, forced-air units also function as dehumidifiers.
Mechanicals Air and Heating provides 24*7 services such as HVAC repair in Garland. The professionals at our firm have years of experience and are trained to listen to your problems carefully and give an in-depth explanation of the situation. Get a seamless and unmatched service experience by calling (214) 584-4164 today.
