Buyer's Guide for Ducted Heating Systems
It's lovely sitting in front of a heater, snuggled under a blanket and feeling like the chilly winter air outside was just a bad dream. The only bad thing about it is having to walk away from your snuggly spot into a freezing area of the house! Ducted heating systems are the answer - they allow you to heat either your whole home, or several rooms at a time (split into user-defined zones), and are far more energy efficient and cheaper to run than an army of element heaters throughout the house. If you're considering installing a ducted heating system, you need to read this buying guide first.
Choose your ducted heating system type
There are two main types of ducted heating system - gas and reverse cycle electric. Each of them has some significant benefits and drawbacks, and the recommended system will fully depend on your climate and usage style.
Gas ducted heating systems
- These are estimated to produce 3 times less greenhouse gases than using standard electric appliances (space heaters) to heat a home
- They are far more efficient even than gas space heaters, costing around $300 less per year to run
- Gas ducted heating systems also cost less to run than reverse cycle systems
- Gas works better when the outside temperature drops below 5 degrees Celsius
- Gas systems provide heating only, whereas reverse cycle systems provide heating and cooling. If you live in a mostly cold climate, gas ducted heating systems are recommended.
Reverse cycle ducting heating systems
- Reverse cycle systems can be a little more expensive to purchase than wall-mounted reverse cycle heater/air conditioners, but are also more efficient
- Reverse cycle systems offer cooling as well as heating. If you live in a climate of extremes (arid or semi-arid zones), reverse cycle systems are recommended.
- Reverse cycle systems can also dehumidify the air in summer
Both types of systems
- Include some models that have variable zones. In some cases, you'll be able to set varying temperatures in up to four different zones within the house.
- Can be installed through either the floor or the roof
- Cost more to install than other heating and cooling options, because of the ducts and tubing required.
- However, each type also saves substantial amounts on running costs in the long run.
Is a ducted heating system best for me?
A ducted heating system will suit homeowners that:
- Are planning to stay in their current house for more than four years
- Frequently need heating in different areas of the house simultaneously
Linking cooling and heating
If you live in a very dry climate, you can also link refrigerated air conditioners to the ducts and tubing for your gas ducted heating system. If you want to do this though, you'll need to consider it at the time of installation - ducted cooling systems require larger diameter ducting and outlets.
Choosing a supplier
When you're looking at purchasing a ducted heating system, no matter what type, look for a supplier who can answer all your questions (if you can supply a floor plan of the property this will help to provide the most suitable system for your requirements). This will minimise miscommunications, and ensure that you get the best possible product, and installation standard, for your needs.
