More and more homeowners who are concerned about preserving the environment are investigating methods of heating their houses that don’t rely on the use of fossil fuels. A number of heating methods exist that take advantage of renewable resources without generating harmful emissions.
Innovative Wood Stoves
Wood stoves are a popular heating alternative. Wood releases carbon dioxide as it burns, but it’s the carbon dioxide that was once in the tree from which the wood came, so the net carbon gain is zero.
While traditional wood stoves produce smoke and other pollutants, newer stoves that have been certified by the EPA cut down on smoke production by as much as 90%. These newer stoves are fueled with wood pellets that are manufactured from recycled wood sources. Pellets are less expensive than firewood, so a pellet stove can save you money, too.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
The EPA’s Energy Star subsidiary has singled out geothermal heating as the most efficient and effective heating method around. Geothermal pumps are comprised of a heat exchange unit that functions much like a conventional heat pump, and a series of underground pipes filled with an aqueous solution draws heat from the Earth’s core temperature.
Geothermal pumps generate far fewer greenhouse gas emissions than furnaces and other more conventional HVAC heating systems. They’re also highly energy-efficient. As such, homeowners can look forward to saving between 20% and 50% on their monthly utility bills.
Solar Heating
The great thing about using the sun’s energy as a source of heat is that it’s free and renewable, and it doesn’t create a carbon footprint. Active solar heating systems use the sun’s energy to pump heated water through your heating system. Passive solar heating systems depend on convection for heat transfer.
Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing is a full-service HVAC provider that can answer any questions you may have about the installation of an eco-friendly heating system in your home or business in American Forks, UT. Whether your heating or cooling system needs repairs, installation, or maintenance services, you can rely on us to do the job properly. Call us today to arrange for an appointment.
