When it comes to heating, a heat pump is often the most efficient option. Geothermal heat pumps access underground thermal energy and can transfer around 4 units of heat for each unit of electrical energy they consume, making them the most efficient air conditioning system for both heating and cooling. The energy efficiency rating, or EER, measures the maximum efficiency of a unit. It's a more important factor than the SEER if the climate you live in is consistently warm and dry during spring and fall.
The highest-efficiency systems are rated with an EER of 13 or more. In general, ovens are the most efficient heating systems, especially if you have natural gas. They work by heating the air with a component called a heat exchanger and pushing it inside the house through a duct system, using a fan (often referred to as a blower). Along with the fact that they have high efficiency ratings, one of the biggest advantages of ovens is their relative affordability.
From the start, window air conditioners have been rated as the champions of cooling smaller rooms and are considered to be the most common type of air conditioner. They come in several sizes and are suitable if you want to cool a small area. Let's say you choose a large window air conditioner. In that case, you can even cool a small house, considering that it is single-storey or open-space. This topic only covers central heating systems.
If you're looking for high-efficiency space heaters, you can read our Most Efficient Space Heater Buying Guide. The most efficient heating system for your home is the system that reduces your energy consumption in the most cost-effective and realistic way. These ratings come from Energy Star's list of most efficient heat pumps. The downside is that the operating costs of the most efficient furnaces can be two to three times higher than those of the most efficient gas ovens.
Although the efficiency is the same as that of gas boilers, some heat is filtered through the ducts. This means that the operating cost of gas ovens is higher. Also if you're interested in the most efficient cooling system, read our guide to the most efficient air conditioner here. When it comes to selecting an HVAC system for your home, it's important to consider all your options carefully. Heat pumps are often considered to be one of the most efficient types of HVAC systems available today due to their ability to transfer four units of heat for every unit of electrical energy they consume. Ovens are also highly efficient when it comes to heating, especially if you have access to natural gas.
Window air conditioners are also great for cooling smaller rooms or areas, while central heating systems are ideal for larger spaces. No matter which type of HVAC system you choose, it's important to consider your climate and budget when making your decision. Energy Star's list of most efficient heat pumps can help you determine which type will be best for your home and provide you with an estimate on operating costs.
