If you reside in San Diego or the surrounding area, the last thing on your mind during winter is worrying about heating. But just as sunny Florida has its fair share of overnight freeze warnings, southern California has its own chilly nights. Nevertheless, the heating system you currently have will determine how pleasantly warm (or not) your winter will be. Two of the most common types are heat pumps (as part of a central air system) and baseboard heating.
What’s the Difference?
Baseboard heaters convert nearly all their electricity into heat. The units themselves are independently wired into each room; one can be heated when needed, instead of the entire house unnecessarily. Baseboard heating warms not only the air but also the articles in the room (like furniture), perfectly providing overall heat for very cold nights. Because no duct work (troublesome if not properly insulated and maintained) is involved, quality-made baseboard heaters release warmth silently and unobtrusively. Unfortunately, they also have an open heating element that can be a fire hazard when smothered (curtains, cushions, furniture, etc) or a burn risk if touched.
Conversely, heat pumps force heat from region to region, the whole house warmed via ductwork, not just single rooms. The duct work should be properly chosen and professionally installed, or the result could be conspicuous (and annoying) sounds or leaks in your ducts, reducing the overall efficiency of the central air system. Central air also includes options like cooling, humidifiers, or filters that remove pollutants and allergens from the air. Unlike clunky baseboard equipment, subtly placed vents circulate heat into the room with little risk of anyone’s being burned.
What About Cost?
Heat pumps output almost four times as much power as they receive, making them the more expensive option. Since the ductwork system must be designed and fitted, it too can be costly to install. Baseboard units can be easily purchased and with some rewiring are fairly simple to replace oneself.
The Best Option?
It depends on your home layout and general climate. Heat pumps become less functional as outside temperatures become increasingly frigid. But in moderate temperatures typical of San Diego winters, central heating can be ideal. On the other hand, baseboard heaters can be used in specific areas as needed. Really, the choice is the home owners’.
Whatever your heating system, if you’re considering installing or upgrading your current one, the heating specialists at 1-800-anytyme are certified and knowledgeable to answer any questions you might have and offer you the most cost effective options suited to your needs. Call us at (760) 477-0072 today!
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Bonsall, Cardiff, Carlsbad, Clairemont, College Area, Del Mar, Downtown, Encinitas, Escondido, Fallbrook, Hillcrest, Kearny Mesa, La Costa, La Jolla, Leucadia, Mira Mesa, Miramar, Mission Valley Normal Heights, North Park, Ocean Beach, Oceanside, Olivenhain, Pacific Beach, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Santa Fe, Rainbow, Ramona, San Diego, San Luis, San Marcos, Scripps Ranch, Serra Mesa, Solana Beach, Tierresanta, University City, Valley Center, Vista