There are several systems homeowners can use for heating in San Jose, CA. Some share components with the HVAC climate control system while others stand alone. Here are just a few of the options you might consider:  

Wood Burning Stove 

While no longer popular, some older homes in the area still feature a wood burning stove. It is an easy, natural way to heat a space without the use of electricity or gas.   

Fireplace 

Gas, electric, and wood fireplaces are not just part of a room’s décor. These are also heating systems, though not as effective as some of the others mentioned. Because of the way fireplaces work they draw air in from the room for combustion and dilution. As a result, a lot of the heat goes up the chimney or out the vent. You need a tight sealing glass door, an outdoor air source, and a chimney damper to generate more useful heat.   

Electric Space Heater 

Portable, plug-in heaters are easy and inexpensive to buy. They convert electricity from the wall socket into the heat. But when used to heat a home, they are very costly. It takes a lot of electricity to generate useful heat. That said, these are great for intermittent use in smaller spaces.   

Gas-Fired Space Heater 

Direct heating equipment is still popular in some areas. These types of systems include free-standing, wall-mounted, and floor furnaces. There is no ductwork. Instead, the system usually produces just enough heating output for a single room. To heat more than one room the doors between must be open and air currents unimpaired. Most models are fired with natural gas or propane, but some use kerosene. But keep in mind unvented gas-fired space heaters are a bad idea. So make sure you find a system that is vented.    

Furnace 

A furnace is a forced air distribution system. This appliance generally uses electricity, oil, propane, or natural gas to heat the air. Then fans force it through a series of ducts to distribute heat throughout the home. This the standard in most homes across the United States because the furnace works in conjunction with the air conditioning system to keep the home comfortable all year round.   

Boiler 

This is another common heating system. This appliance is a special-purpose water heater. It pumps steam or hot water through a series of pipes to provide heat. The heat transfers through radiators and other devices. Then the cooled water returns to the boiler to be reheated. This system allows homeowners to practice zoned heating. Unfortunately, they cost significantly more money to install and more expensive to run.   

Heat Pump 

This is a two-way air system that can be used to both heat and cool the home. Rather than generating heat like a furnace or boiler, heat pumps use electricity and refrigerant to transfer heat. They are one of the most efficient heating systems on the market but work best in moderate climates where temperatures rarely drop below freezing.   

Radiant Heating 

This system sends hot water or electricity through special tubes located in the floors, wall, or ceiling. While great at distributing heat, repairs on these systems can become very expensive because it is so difficult to access parts of the system.   

Wondering which system is best for heating in San Jose, CA? Contact the experts at Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning. One of our experts can walk you through each system and give you more details about the pros and cons. For more information call (408) 978-7060. Or if you want to see some of these systems in person feel free to visit 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112.
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