Key Takeaways
- Natural gas furnaces are the cheapest way to heat a home at $30 to $60 per month
- Heat pumps cost $40 to $160 per month to operate
- Electric furnaces have the highest monthly cost at $130 to $180
- Improving insulation and sealing air leaks can significantly reduce heating bills
- Government incentives may be available for energy-efficient heating upgrades
What Is The Cheapest Way To Heat A Home?
The cheapest way to heat a home is with a natural gas furnace at a monthly cost of $30 to $60. Heat pumps are also an affordable option, with a monthly running cost of $40 to $160. Electric furnaces tend to have the highest operating costs at $130 to $180 per month.
Cheapest Way To Heat A Home
| Heat Source | Monthly Running Cost | Yearly Running Cost* |
|---|---|---|
| Natural gas furnace | $30 – $60 | $120 – $360 |
| Heat pump | $40 – $160 | $160 – $960 |
| Mini-split heat pump | $30 – $150 | $120 – $900 |
| Oil furnace | $80 – $145 | $320 – $870 |
| Propane furnace | $90 – $200 | $360 – $1,200 |
| Electric furnace | $130 – $180 | $520 – $1,100 |
| Radiant floors | $65 – $250 | $140 – $1,500 |
| Baseboard heater | $480 – $900 | $1,900 – $5,400 |
| Portable heater | $50 – $80 | $200 – $480 |
*Based on a 4-month heating season. Actual costs will vary depending on climate, home size, and energy rates.
Natural Gas Furnace Heating Cost
Natural gas furnaces are one of the most cost-effective ways to heat a home. They provide reliable, fast heating and have lower operating costs compared to other heating methods.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Low operating costs – Faster heating – Reliable heat source even in very cold weather – Clean burning | – Not available in all areas – Produces carbon monoxide, a dangerous gas that can be fatal if inhaled – Releases greenhouse gases when burned which has an environmental impact – Shorter lifespan than electric models |
Heat Pump Running Cost
Heat pumps are an energy-efficient heating option, especially in regions with moderate climates. They have lower operating costs and are more environmentally friendly compared to traditional heating systems.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Energy efficiency with lower operating costs, especially in regions with moderate climates – Environmentally friendly with fewer greenhouse emissions – Longer lifespan than traditional heating systems – Better safety with no combustion process | – Variable running costs due to fluctuating electricity prices – Less efficient in extremely cold climates – Need proper installation for optimal performance – Require regular maintenance, including filter cleaning – Older models can be noisy |
Oil Furnace Heating Cost
Oil furnaces are a viable heating option for homes without access to natural gas lines. They provide a higher heat output than gas or electric models but require more maintenance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – No gas lines required – Higher Btu output per hour than gas or electric models – Safer than natural gas with no harmful gas emissions – Long lifespan | – Requires more maintenance compared to gas or electric models – Fewer service companies available for maintenance and repairs – Less convenient fuel delivery and storage |
Propane Furnace Heating Cost
Propane furnaces offer fast, effective heating and can operate independently of electricity during power outages. However, they require periodic fuel deliveries and have varying costs due to market fluctuations.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Fast and effective heating – Operates independently of electricity for heating during power outages – Performs well in extremely cold climates – Can power other appliances like water heaters, stoves, and dryers | – Requires periodic deliveries and an on-site tank – Varying fuel costs due to market fluctuations – Risk of carbon monoxide emissions – Requires proper ventilation and maintenance |
Electric Furnace Heating Cost
Electric furnaces have higher operating costs compared to other heating methods but offer improved indoor air quality and easier maintenance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Better indoor air quality with no combustion byproducts – Fewer moving parts for easier repairs and maintenance – Easily integrated with renewable energy sources like solar or wind power | – Higher operating costs compared to other heating fuels – Non-functional during power outages – Takes longer to reach the desired temperature |
Radiant Floor Heating Cost
Radiant floor heating provides even, comfortable heat and operates at lower temperatures to minimize heat loss. However, it is expensive to install and has a slower response time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Even, comfortable heating – Operate at lower temperatures, minimizing heat loss – Installed beneath the floor, eliminating the need for bulky radiators or ductwork – Quiet operation – Reduced allergens – Easily divided into zones, allowing for precise temperature control | – Expensive to install as it requires removing the existing flooring – Slower response time, taking longer to adjust to changes in temperature – Challenging to access for maintenance and repairs – Difficult and less effective to integrate with cooling systems |
Baseboard Heating Cost
Baseboard heaters offer even heat distribution and individual room control but have higher running costs and may impact room design.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Even heat distribution – Individual room control – Quiet operation – No ductwork required – Simple design, less prone to mechanical issues – Lower installation costs than radiant floor heating | – Less effective in larger rooms or areas with poor insulation – Takes up valuable wall space and restricts furniture placement – Slower response time, taking longer to warm up or adjust to temperature changes – Visible components may impact the room design – Higher running costs to power these electric units |
Portable Space Heater Running Cost
Portable space heaters can provide supplemental heat for small areas at a lower cost than running a central heating system. However, they are not as efficient for heating larger spaces and can pose safety risks if not used properly.
Cheapest Way To Heat A Mobile Home
The most affordable way to heat a mobile home is typically with a mini-split heat pump or a propane furnace. These systems are energy-efficient, cost-effective, and well-suited for the smaller square footage of mobile homes.
How To Save On Heating Bills
- Improve insulation in walls, attics, and crawl spaces
- Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings
- Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures
- Change furnace filters regularly for optimal efficiency
- Use ceiling fans to circulate warm air in the winter
- Take advantage of natural sunlight during the day by opening curtains and blinds
- Lower the thermostat temperature at night or when away from home
Home Heating Cost FAQs
Is It Cheaper To Heat With Propane Or Natural Gas?
Natural gas is typically cheaper than propane for home heating. On average, propane costs nearly twice as much per BTU compared to natural gas. However, the price difference can vary depending on regional availability and market conditions.
Is It Cheaper To Run Space Heaters Or Central Heat?
In most cases, it is more cost-effective to run a central heating system than to rely on space heaters. Space heaters are only more affordable when heating a single, small area for a short period. For consistent, whole-house heating, a central system is more efficient and economical.
What Is The Most Affordable Way To Heat A Home?
The most affordable way to heat a home is with a natural gas furnace, which costs $30 to $60 per month to operate. Other cost-effective options include heat pumps and mini-split systems, especially in moderate climates.
| Heat Source | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| Natural gas furnace | $2,000 – $6,900 |
| Heat pump | $3,800 – $8,200 |
| Mini-split heat pump | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Oil furnace | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| Propane furnace | $2,200 – $7,400 |
| Electric furnace | $1,900 – $5,600 |
| Radiant floors | $10,000 – $34,000 |
| Baseboard heater | $200 – $1,200 per unit |
| Portable heater | $20 – $300 per unit |
How Can I Reduce Heating Expenses In My Home?
To reduce heating expenses:
- Improve insulation and seal air leaks
- Install a programmable thermostat
- Change furnace filters regularly
- Use ceiling fans to circulate warm air
- Take advantage of natural sunlight during the day
- Lower the thermostat temperature at night or when away
Are There Government Incentives Available For Improving Home Heating Efficiency?
Yes, there are various government incentives and tax credits available for improving home heating efficiency. These may include rebates for installing energy-efficient heating systems, insulation upgrades, or renewable energy technologies. Check with your local utility company or state energy office for specific programs in your area.
Questions To Ask An HVAC Contractor
- What heating system do you recommend for my home’s size and climate?
- How energy-efficient is the proposed system, and what are the estimated operating costs?
- Is the system compatible with my existing ductwork or electrical setup?
- What is the installation process, and how long will it take?
- Do you offer any warranties or maintenance plans for the new system?
- Are there any rebates or incentives available for the recommended system?
- What is the expected lifespan of the new heating system?
- How can I maximize the efficiency of the new system to keep heating costs low?
By understanding the costs and benefits of different home heating options, homeowners can make informed decisions to keep their homes warm and comfortable while minimizing expenses. Consulting with a professional HVAC contractor can help determine the most suitable and cost-effective heating solution for your specific needs.
