Architects, builders, contractors and homeowners are faced with countless options for home heating systems. Listed below are some of the current trends and equipment and installation considerations:
•· Types of systems
•· First cost comparison
•· Operating cost
•· Carbon emissions
•· Paybacks
At one time we were only concerned with a reliable heating source. Today we want energy efficiency and are concerned about carbon emissions. Seattle home builder Martha Rose chooses to go with high-efficiency electric mini-splits for her new homes, City Cabins, in part because the Pacific Northwest electricity is made with hydro-power which produces smaller amounts of CO2 compared to coal or nuclear power.
Why do residential heating systems matter?
•· Average heating outlay is $600-$1200 annually
•· Heating cost represent about 31% of household energy cost nationally
•· 40% in areas like the Midwest and Northeast
Source: Energy Data Book, Table 4.2.1 2005 energy cost data
Energy prices for all fuel sources have continued to rise and have been extremely volatile over the last decade. Electricity use in homes is accountable for the majority of CO2 in the residential sector. The amount of CO2 depends on the mix and how the electricity is generated. This varies throughout the country. For example Washington State generates approximately 75% of its electricity from hydro-power, while states like Ohio and Indiana predominately use coal to produce electricity.
Roughly 75% of the electricity generated in the United States is produced from fossil-fuels.
•· 59% Coal
•· 17% Nuclear
•· 12% Natural gas
•· 9 Hydro-electric
Conclusions:
Important considerations for selecting a heating system:
•· The lowest (units) costs tend to mean higher operating cost
•· Higher efficiency systems with moderate 1st cost are normally the smartest option
•· Propane-based systems often have lower carbon emissions than eclectic -based or oil systems
Looking Ahead
•· Carbon-emissions regulations will impact fuel prices
•· Expect continued volatile in energy prices
•· More pressure to reduce carbon-emissions with increased green programs and building codes
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