There are a variety of factors that go into deciding which heating system is best suited for you and your home. The chart below summarizes some of the general differences between some of the most common heating systems. Please note that factors related to installation costs can be highly variable based on the size of your home, the type, make and model of heating system selected, as well as design and installation considerations. The operating costs of different heating systems can also depend on the size of your home, the overall efficiency of your home, your preferred home temperature, where you live, the number of heating and/or cooling days and other factors.

A data table showing which common home heating sources (such as central heat pumps, electric furnaces, gas boilers, etc.) have which features (such as summer cooling, basic air filtration, installation and operating costs, etc.).

Ask an energy advisor, contractor or Energy Coach for help finding the right system for your home.

Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.