How to Choose the Best Heating System for Your Home

1. How to Choose the Best Heating System for Your Home Now is the perfect time to consider how you will keep your house warm as the Aussie winter approaches. Nobody likes to be unprepared when the cold truly sets in, but the days are growing shorter, and the nights are getting colder. One important aspect of preparation is selecting the appropriate heating system. If you haven't looked over your plan in a while, now is also an excellent time to compare plans online and Switch Electricity Providers for a better deal. Tips for Choosing the Right Heating System for Your Home 1. Start With Your Climate First things first, where you live in Australia makes a big difference. If you’re in Melbourne or Hobart, winters can be pretty chilly, so you’ll need a system that can handle regular use. If you’re up in Brisbane or Darwin, you probably only need heating for a short part of the year. So, for colder areas, look into systems that provide strong and consistent heat, like gas ducted heating or reverse cycle air conditioning. In milder areas, a portable electric heater or split system might be enough.

2. 2. Know The Main Types There are a few main options when it comes to heating: ● Gas ducted heating: This is good for heating the whole house. It’s fast and efficient, especially in cooler climates. It does cost more to install, but it heats up quickly and is reliable. ● Split systems (reverse cycle air conditioning): These are great if you want both heating and cooling in one unit. They’re energy efficient and good for one or two rooms. Some models are very quiet too. ● Electric panel heaters: These are slim, easy to install, and work best in small spaces. They don’t cost much upfront, but they can be expensive to run if used for long periods. ● Hydronic heating: This system uses hot water to warm up panels or underfloor pipes. It gives a steady heat without blowing air around. It’s quiet, clean, and good for people with allergies, but installation can be pricey. ● Portable heaters: Cheap and handy, but only suitable for short-term use or heating small rooms. They’re not the best option if you need regular heating, as they would become quite expensive. 3. Think About How Big Your Space Is The size of the room or house matters. A small electric heater in a big lounge room won’t cut it. At the same time, installing a full gas ducted system for a one-bedroom unit is overkill. Measure your rooms and talk to a heating professional to make sure the system can handle the space. Also, check your home’s insulation. If your ceiling or walls don’t have good insulation, heat escapes quickly. Even the best heater will struggle in a poorly insulated home. This is also a great moment to switch electricity providers if you’ve recently upgraded your insulation or heating needs and want a better plan to match. 4. Check Energy Efficiency Look at the energy rating labels. The more stars, the better the energy efficiency. A more efficient system might cost more at the start, but it’ll save money on bills in the long run. Gas is usually cheaper than electricity in many parts of Australia, but that’s not always the case. Also, electricity is becoming cleaner in some states thanks to renewables, so it’s worth doing an Energy Provider Comparison online to see what best fits your budget and values. It’s quick and easy and free!

3. 5. Finalise Budget for Installation and Running Costs Don’t just think about the price tag on the unit. Some systems cost a lot to install but are cheap to run. Others are the opposite. Get quotes for installation and ask about how much it’ll cost to run each week. This way, you won’t get hit with surprises later on. Also, find out how long the system usually lasts. Some cheaper systems may need replacing sooner, which ends up costing more. And if you’re setting up a new home electricity connection, make sure to factor that into your initial budgeting too. 6. Check Noise Levels Some systems are louder than others. If you’re heating a bedroom or study, check how much noise the unit makes. Quiet models are available, especially in split systems and hydronic heating. Summing Up Before you buy, do a bit of research and get advice from someone who works in heating, not just a shop assistant. Every home is different. What works for your neighbour might not be right for you. If you're setting up a home office or work-from-home zone, it could also be worth looking into Business Electricity Plans, especially if you’re running equipment during peak hours. Always ask for a quote in writing, including installation and warranties. And don’t forget to keep up with servicing – heating systems last longer and work better when they’re looked after properly. And finally, enjoy your cosy home this winter!