Energy-efficiency is important these days. Some heating systems are better than others. If you are looking for a"greener"system, here are some you should know about:
Geothermal heat pumps are one of the most energy-efficient systems for heating and cooling because they use the earth's ability to store heat in the ground. A geothermal heat pump uses that available heat in the winter and puts heat back into the ground in the summer.
Hydronic (liquid) radiant floor heating systems are also quite energy-efficient for colder climates. Hydronic radiant floor systems pump heated water from a boiler through tubing laid in a pattern underneath the floor. Radiant heating creates more comfort and allows even heating throughout the house. The operation is essentially silent in comparison to forced air heating since there is no noise from the air-flow or ducts. Radiant heating also allows for better indoor air quality due to less dust particles moving throughout the home as with forced air heating.
Also, installing a Heat Recovery Ventilator recovers the heat energy in the exhaust air, and transfers it to fresh air as it enters the building, this in turn, improves climate control, while also saving energy by reducing the heating (or cooling) requirements.
When selecting heating and cooling equipment make sure to select Energy Star® products.
Kent: I actually came across an article that talks about prices in the Seattle area. Rather than try to quote them, here is the link to a great article about heat recovery ventilators in the Seattle PI.
I just came across this statement..."The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has called geothermal the most energy-efficient, environmentally clean, and cost-effective space conditioning systems available."
Kent: I don't know exact costs since it would be based on each homes sq footage, layout, etc...but they say that Geothermal heat pumps typically run 2-3 times higher than traditional heating systems such as forced air. The energy savings each year can be reduced by 35-70% every year and thus the system will essentially pay for itself within a matter of years.
Good information and links ASHLEY - thanks! and good advice to Kent. Best thing to do is call a local Heating and Cooling company that specializes in the systems. LIke you said, Ashley, there are many calculations that are involved and pricing will depend on whether it is going into an existing home or a new construction product. Make sure to get a contractor that right sizes the system!
Thanks!