Choosing the right heater is one of the most important decisions you will make when it comes to heating your home. There are a number of things to consider, including your budget, the type of space you need to heat, and the available options.
Gas heaters are a popular choice for most homeowners because they are relatively inexpensive and efficient. In addition, they produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electrical models.
Cost
The cost of gas heaters will vary depending on the type of unit you purchase. Generally, they are cheaper to purchase and install than electric heaters.
They can also be more affordable than heating systems that run on renewable energy, such as solar panels or heat pumps. However, operating costs can fluctuate significantly depending on the weather and your personal comfort level.
When purchasing a gas heater, you should consider your climate zone as well as how large your home is. Homes in colder regions can need more BTUs per square foot than those in hotter ones.
A gas furnace can be a more expensive option than an electric furnace, but it may be worth it for the efficiency and longer lifespan of these types of systems.
A gas furnace will cost between $5,000 and $7,500 to fully install if it is professionally installed. This includes building permits, inspections, new furnace units and standard supplies, professional installation and a typical 5-year to 10-year warranty from the installer.
Efficiency
Gas heaters are one of the most energy efficient ways to heat your home. They use 90 per cent of the energy they consume directly into heat.
They also require very little maintenance, which can save you money over the long run. This is because the system does not need to be constantly cleaned or replaced, which can shorten its lifespan.
In addition, they are very environmentally friendly, as they do not produce any harmful gases or pollutants. This can help to protect the health of your family and the environment.
Safety
A gas heater can be a safe way to warm your home. However, you should know the risks and follow some simple safety tips to keep your family safe from fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
For example, unflued gas heaters should never be used in bathrooms and bedrooms, or in caravans and boats where they could be a fire hazard or release dangerous carbon monoxide into the air.
Ensure your gas heater is always installed in a safe area, at least one metre away from furniture, curtains and any other flammable material. Also make sure there is adequate ventilation around your heater.
Some new open flued gas space heaters have an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) which virtually eliminates the risk of carbon monoxide from incomplete combustion caused by lack of air. Unfortunately, this unique sensor is not effective in addressing other causes of CO poisoning, such as improper gas pressure, dust, dirt or rust on your burner or disruption of your burner by air currents.
Installation
Gas heaters are a popular option among homeowners because they use less energy than electric heaters. They also require less maintenance and can be installed in many locations.
Installing a gas heater can be a tricky task, but with a little planning it can be completed successfully. However, it is best to hire a professional to complete this job.
During the installation process, you must ensure that you follow all safety procedures and make sure that your work meets local building code requirements before turning it on.
During the installation of a gas water heater, you must be sure to shut off all of your home’s main water and gas lines. This will help to prevent carbon monoxide leaks from occurring in your home.