Benefits of Central Heating
How is your house feeling this winter? Do you need to wear a sweater all the time? Are you adding layers before going to bed? Do you sleep with a beanie on? Is it tough to get out bed in the mornings because it’s actually going to be really cold?
Many people who don’t have central heating in their home will be nodding along as they read this. Because so many New Zealanders grew up with sub-par housing, they haven’t experienced what it can be like to be warm at home. The general attitude is that it’s not necessary and people should harden up.
However, the Housing and Health Research Programme, based in the University of Otago, Wellington, has proven that there is a link between poor quality housing and poor health. Knowing that a warm house can contribute to good health, wouldn’t you also like to be comfortable at home? We do spend a lot of time in our houses so we need to ensure they are keeping us healthy.
What is Central Heating?
Central heating is a system that heats all areas of a house or building. This is done either through radiators circulating warm water, or vents blowing warm air. Generally there is a single heat source and the warmth is moved from there to all rooms in a house. The systems are often installed under a house, or directly in-floor where possible. Some of them require an external component that might be installed at the side of your house. The systems are most-often fueled by natural gas as that tends to be more efficient than using electricity.
Why Use Central Heating?
There are many reasons that central heating is a better solution than single-room heating:
- The whole house is warmed rather than just one room
- It’s quick – you notice a difference usually within 10 minutes of the system kicking up to a higher temperature
- A thermostat controls the system so you can set it to maintain a minimum temperature
- Many systems can be set on a schedule (so that your house can be warm before you wake up in the morning!)
- Systems are efficient and effective so you get the best value out of your heating bill
- It creates even warmth throughout each room
- Several systems are “zoned” so that you can adjust the temperature of certain areas without it changing another
Make Sure You’re Insulated
Installing a central heating system in a home that’s lacking insulation will prove costly to run. Make sure that any possible insulation has been retrofitted before installing central heating. Ideally, you’ll have at least ceiling and underfloor insulation. If you have a rental property, there are still insulation subsidies available if your tenants are low-income. Check out the Energywise site for more details.
Get a Quote Today
It’s time that New Zealanders start seeing heating as a necessity and not a luxury. Winter is here so we’re getting more queries for central heating systems. Value your family’s health and comfort and contact us today to discuss the many options you have in heating your home.
