Alternative Home Heating Methods

It's a fact of life: When the mercury drops, our energy bills rise. And try as we might to be more energy efficient, you can only turn the thermostat down so far before frostbite becomes a concern. There has to be a better way, doesn't there?

Alternative home-heating methods can keep us warm without breaking the bank. Switching over can be costly, but with the huge energy savings possible, an alternative heating system can pay for itself in no time.

Significance

With energy costs on the rise, most homeowners are eager to find ways to cut back. In areas with cold winters, heating can be very expensive. So it stands to reason that the first thing most homeowners think about when considering ways to save on energy is their heating systems. Finding a more efficient heating system that uses a less costly type of fuel can slash a household's energy bills.

Function

Alternative home-heating systems may be used in any area with cold weather. Some types, however, are better suited to extremely cold climates than others. An alternative heating system should be able to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, even in the coldest weather one could expect in your area. If it can't do that, you'll need some type of backup heat.

Types

There are many types of alternative heating systems. One of the most efficient and worry-free is the geothermal heat pump. It extracts heat from within the earth to heat your home. Solar- and wind-powered heating systems are also extremely cost-effective. The biggest problem with these methods is the high initial investment.

Alternative fuels also offer lower heating costs. Wood is one of the most widely available alternative fuels. Corn is also an abundant and efficient heating resource.

Benefits

Alternative heating is a great way for homeowners to save money, but it also has more far-reaching benefits. Geothermal and solar- and wind-powered heating systems use few or no natural resources, and they have very little impact on the environment. Alternative fuels do utilize natural resources, but these resources are renewable. They also produce far fewer harmful emissions than most standard heating systems.

Warning

When considering an alternative heating method, research is essential. Some methods will not work in certain situations. For example, if you want to use solar heating, your house will need to receive plenty of sun.

Fuel-burning heaters are often associated with fires, usually due to improper usage and maintenance. For this reason, local codes sometimes prohibit them. If installation is permissible, have it done by a professional and learn about correct usage and maintenance.