Ultimate Heating Guide: Finding The Best Heating System For Your Needs

Do you find yourself shivering through most of the winter?
Does your heating system need constant upkeep yet doesn’t fully work to keep your space warm enough?

Have you noticed that your heating system isn't effectively keeping you warm?

 

Choosing the right heating system is essential in maintaining comfort and warmth in your home through the colder months of the year. It keeps you comfortable throughout the day and helps create a productive environment.

There are many great options for heating systems available in the market.
People tend to look for ones that both offer good features and are affordable. 

However, compatibility is key for picking a heating system. You need a system that not only complements your space but also your lifestyle. Keeping a few considerations in mind will help you pick the best heating system for your needs - one that is affordable, effective, and durable.

The best heating system will keep your room’s temperature ideal at all times. But what is the ideal room temperature for living and sleeping in a space? 

The answer to this question varies depending on: The size and location of the living space itself, the ages and preferences of the people living there, and other factors such as humidity or general activity being conducted in the space.

The Sleep Foundation recommends the ideal room temperature for living and sleeping as 60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, which is 15.6 to 20 degrees Celsius.

You can always increase or decrease the temperature to your preference. If you’re unsure, these guidelines would be a good place to start. We encourage experimenting with different temperatures to see what feels the most comfortable to you.

Identifying the ideal temperature for your space is a great place to start when looking for a suitable heating system for yourself. It allows you to be accurate in what you’re looking for and save time and resources that come with guesswork.

 

Quality heating does more than just keep you warm and comfortable during cold weather. It keeps the atmosphere in your space consistent regardless of how the weather is outside. This way, it helps you deal with weather changes by keeping you comfortable through them.

Some of the key benefits of quality heating are:

1. Ease and comfort — Your heating system keeps you warm and comfortable in the colder months. It creates a comfortable environment inside the house that promotes positivity and productivity.
   
   
2. Reduces noise — The best heating system will help you control the noise in your living area. By circulating clean and fresh air, it can help create a constant low sound that can feel comforting.
   
   
3. Improves air quality — A heating system regulates fresh and clean air in your room while preventing dust particles from moving around. This helps improve the air quality. It makes breathing easier and reduces irritation in the lungs. A beating system is a must for patients suffering from breathing or lung issues.
   
   
4. Eliminates moisture — By providing necessary warmth at all times, the system evaporates moisture in the space. This leads to the elimination of black mold which can cause various diseases.
   
   
5. Energy efficient — This may seem counterintuitive. But by having a heating system running at all times, you save on necessary energy consumption. Your space always has a consistent temperature, saving the effort of heating or cooling things too much.

Wellcare offers a variety of products that help you achieve quality heating in your home for comfortable living and sleeping. From sleep gadgets to heating cushions and pads, our products will enhance the ambiance of your room to help you stay comfortable, warm, and happy throughout the day and achieve peaceful sleep at night.

 

Heating pads contribute to your comfort while also enhancing the ambiance of the room.

 

When buying the best heating system for your unique needs, it’s important to understand the connection between body temperature and relative humidity. 

 

How familiar are you with relative humidity?

 

Humidity refers to the water content in the air at any given moment. Expressed as a percentage, relative humidity is the actual amount of water vapour in the air in comparison to the total amount of vapour that could exist in the air at the moment at its current temperature.

Warm air generally holds more moisture than cold air. So, if there is the same amount of absolute humidity in cool air and warm air, the cool air will have higher relative humidity, and warm air with have lower relative humidity.

Relative humidity is affected by various factors such as body temperature and the air exhaled by people in the room.

Relative humidity of 30 to 60% is considered ideal. Your heating system should be able to maintain comfortable levels of humidity throughout the day. 

Understanding body temperature

Body temperature is the measurement of your body at any given moment. The ideal body temperature is considered to be from 97 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit, which is 36 to 37 degrees Celsius. 

Now, this range varies from person to person. It’s also affected by:

• the climate of the region they live in,
• their age,
• lifestyle habits,
• the physical activity they’re performing at the moment,
• gender,
• habits such as smoking and drinking, and
• stress they take.

Maintaining the right body temperature plays a crucial role in helping your fall asleep as well as achieving quality sleep through the night.  

Ambient temperature — the current temperature of your space

Ambiance refers to surroundings. Ambient temperature is the air temperature of a living space.

It’s often confused with room temperature but both terms are slightly different from one another.

1. Room temperature — It is referred to as a ‘normal’ temperature — not too cold and not too warm.
   
   
2. Ambient temperature — It is the temperature of a room at the moment or even in general.

For example, If a particular room in your house is generally cold because it’s on the outer side, then that room’s ambient temperature is cooler compared to what a ‘room temperature’ would be.

Maintaining a comfortable ambient temperature in your room plays a pivotal role in the comfort you experience there. 

Core body temperature — the ideal temperature you should aim for

The core body temperature varies from person to person. It’s the temperature at which your internal organs function properly. It’s also affected by various factors such as the age of the person or what physical activity they’re doing. 

Your core body temperature will be increased during the day and reduced during the night. You need it to be lowered to fall asleep easily. This can be further affected by the ambient temperature as well as humidity levels to disrupt your sleep.

The best heating system for your needs will be one that manages all these aspects to create a comfortable and relaxed ambiance in your room. You should feel comfortable during the day and relax during the night to be able to fall asleep with ease. 


How does relative humidity affect your body temperature?

 

The comfort experienced in a space is greatly affected by relative humidity.

 

As discussed above, relative humidity, body temperature, core body temperature, and ambient temperature play crucial roles in the level of comfort you feel in a space.

When the human body perspires or sweats, the air around the body evaporates the sweat allowing the body to cool down. But if the air itself has too much moisture in it, it will not be able to absorb the sweat on its own. Due to this, the warm sweat stays on your skin longer.

This makes you feel hotter and more uncomfortable. Being subjected to high relative humidity for long periods of time can contribute to your feeling low energy and lethargic, contributing to an unproductive environment. 

You need to manage both humidity and relative humidity levels to achieve a comfortable atmosphere in your room. As stated above, aim for 30 to 60% humidity in your room for ideal and comfortable temperatures.

How quality heating provides home comfort?

Quality heating plays a pivotal role in providing home comfort. If you’re focused on how to increase your body temperature and lower the core body temperature so that they’re closer to each other, pay attention to your heating mechanics. 

A heating system helps you achieve a consistent temperature throughout the space and for long periods of time. This ensures that clean, fresh air is constantly being regulated in the area while reducing the movement of dust and other particles. 


Here’s how the best heating system provides home comfort:

Heats up the room appropriately to lower relative humidity

Contrary to popular belief, heating a room lowers relative humidity, making the environment more comfortable.

As the temperature of the air decreases, it’s able to hold more water molecules and decrease the relative humidity.

Brings body temperature and core body temperature closer to increase the quality of sleep

The body temperature needs to be a bit higher and the core body temperature needs to be a bit lower for a human body to fall asleep with ease.

Quality heating keeps the temperature constant, bringing both the body temperature and the core body temperature close to equilibrium, and narrowing the gap between them.

This helps you stay comfortable through the night and increase the efficiency of your sleep in the long run. 

Maintains the ambient temperature

Efficient heating through the colder months helps you maintain a comfortable ambient temperature in your living space. It helps you keep the temperature constant and not fluctuate.

 

Many types of heating systems are popular among homeowners. You may choose the best heating for your home based on:

• The functionality you require out of your system,
• The scope and scalability you need,
• The budget you can spend,
• The size and unique characteristics of your home, and
• The number of people that live in the space and their unique needs.

Depending on the needs, functionality, and affordability, room heating can be broadly categorised into three different types.

Central heating

 

A central heating system in a house.

 

A central heating system converts fuel or electricity into heat. It provides heat to space by circulating it all through it via a main source. 

A central heating system usually has a furnace that performs the function of converting fuel or electricity into heat. Common fuels used are coal, wood, oil, gas, and electricity The converted heat is then circulated in the living space through:

• Fans forcing the warm air through ducts, 
• Low-pressure steam being sent to radiators in each room, or
• Pumps circulating hot water to radiators in each room. 

Some of the most common central heating systems used by homeowners are:

1. Gas boilers — A simple system that uses gas to heat water and circulate it around the room. Is usually large and is a common choice among US households when it comes to the best heating systems.
   
   
2. Electric boilers — They are usually smaller than gas boilers in size. They use electricity to heat water and circulate it in the room through radiators. They are often paired with storage heaters.
   
   
3. Wet systems — Wet systems are the most common types of central heating systems. They are particularly popular in the UK. These systems make use of a boiler or heat exchanger along with the radiator to provide the best heating.
   
   The boiler points up the fuel that is circulated in the room through pipes spread across it to end at the radiator, providing comprehensive heating to your room.
   
   
4. Warm air systems — Warm air systems work the same as wet systems do, only instead of water, air is heated and circulated in the room through pipes and tubes.
   
   The system can work dually to circulate cool air instead of hot air as well. It's a popular choice for commercial settings such as offices and complexes.
   
   
5. Storage heater systems — The system uses bricks instead of water or air. It stores heat during the night and releases it during the day.
   
   It's the most energy-efficient central heating system, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking for affordable options. It's also often paired with electrical boilers. 
   
   

 

Pros and cons — affordable but sometimes insufficient 

Central heating systems are popular among homeowners as they’re affordable and easy to install. However, they can be inconsistent with their heating with leaks or damage, causing insufficient heating.

Here are some key merits of the system:

1. Economical — The initial expense of a centralised system is more than a decentralised system but it's a life-long investment that results to be more economical in the long run.
   
   
2. Ubiquitous — Due to being popular choices among homeowners, it's rather easy to find technicians to fit and repair a centralised system. You can find parts for it more easily.
   
   
3. Durable — Centralised systems have a long life span, making them a convenient system to use. When used correctly, it will perform consistently and you will not have to worry about investing in room heating every winter.
   
   
4. Equal warmth — A feature unique to centralised systems is that the warmth is spread evenly in the room. This is because the pipeline and duct system is evenly spread out in the entire house. 

While its benefits can be enticing, you should consider some demerits that you may face with a centralised system:

1. Leaks and damage disrupt the whole system — Due to being a connected system, a single leak or damage in any of the pipes or ducts disrupts the working of the entire system.
   
   You will need to meticulously find the issue and then repair it for your system to start working again.
   
   
2. Can be noisy — The large system of central heating spread across your living space can get noisy when running in tandem. This can feel vexing to many users. However, it can be managed with regular maintenance.
   
   
3. Can be dangerous without maintenance — The furnace of the central system needs constant upkeep. Otherwise, it can start spreading allergens and dust that will go into the system and cause various diseases.
   
   

Electric heating

 

 An electric heater in a house.

 

Electric heating is another common room heating system that converts electrical energy into heat energy. It makes use of an electrical heater to convert electrical current into heat with the help of an electrical resistor. 

Electric heating is a popular choice for heating in cooking, water heating, and many other domestic tasks other than room heating. It's considered a very sleek and efficient heating system as it doesn't require an elaborate installation or intense upkeep to function. 

Electric heating is broadly divided into two major categories: space heating and liquid heating. 

Different types of space heating are:

• Toggle Space heating subsection
• Convection heaters
• Infrared radiant heaters
• Fan heaters
• Domestic electrical underfloor heating
• Storage heating
• Lighting system
• Heat pumps

Different types of liquid heating include:

• Immersion heaters
• Circulation heaters
• Electrode heaters
  
  

 

Pros and cons — efficient but relies on electricity 

Electric heating is a sleek system that's easy to install and runs with virtually no maintenance required. However, it requires constant use of electricity which can be a cause of concern if electricity is expensive in your region. 

Given below are some important benefits of having an electric system:

1. Efficient — Electric heating does not require elaborate installation that is often challenging for homeowners to go through. It's a sleek system that can be easily installed and used.
   
   
2. Low maintenance — An electric system has no moving parts that require frequent cleaning, servicing, or upkeep. This makes the system require virtually no maintenance and run smoothly without much exterior help.
   
   
3. Safe for health — Many heating systems are associated with the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. Electric systems pose no such risk as no fuels are burned during their operations.
   
   
4. Quiet — Electric heating systems make virtually no noise, making them a calm and quiet option for noise-sensitive environments and users. They're also ideal for sleeping. 

 

There are some drawbacks associated with electrical heating that you should know about along with its benefits:

 

1. Depends on electric supply — The system runs entirely on electricity. If your region doesn't receive a constant supply of electricity, the system will be inefficient.
   
   
2. Consume copious amounts of electricity — Even if your region receives sufficient electricity, you could still face challenges with your electric heating in the form of increased electric bills as the system will be consuming electricity at all times.
   
   
3. Interfere with electric devices — Electric electromagnetic fields that can interfere with other electronic devices in operation such as televisions and radios. 
   
   

 

Radiant heating 

 

Radiant floor heating

 

Radiant heating is a heating technology used to heat up both indoors and outdoors with the exchange of heat by use of convection and radiation processes. 

Indoor heating systems use radiant heat to warm up a space. Heat energy is emitted through floors, walls, and overhead panels instead of directly heating the air in the space. Outdoor radiant heaters target a specific area and warm the objects and people in their path.

The most common radiant heating systems are:

• Underfloor heating systems
• Wall heating systems
• Radiant ceiling panels
  
  

 

Pros and cons — requires elaborate installation but after that, it’s smooth sailing

Radiant heating systems provide consistent heating without requiring much upkeep. They do require some effort in installation which can be challenging for some homeowners. 

Some benefits of the system:

1. Uniform heating — A radiant heating system provides equal heating in every part of the house heating the air of the room. This creates a comfortable environment throughout the space.
   
   
2. Prevents circulation of allergies — Since the system does not move the air of the room, no dust particles or allergies can circulate in the space. This helps prevent allergies and proves to be a beneficial setup for people who suffer from breathing issues.
   
   
3. No maintenance — Most radiant systems don't require much upkeep after installation, helping you save costs. Radiant systems can last up to 20 years without causing many issues.
   
   
4. Quiet — Radiant systems cause no noise when in operation. No furnace turns on and runs and no air moves, so it's completely quiet, making it ideal for sleeping. 

Along with the benefits, here are some demerits you should also consider:

1. Requires elaborate installation — You need to conduct elaborate installation on the floor, walls, or on ceiling to install a radiant system in it. It takes time and resources and might pose a challenge to homeowners.
   
   
2. Reduces space — When a radiant system is added to the walls, floor, or ceiling, it adds about an inch to the existing volume. This can cause the doors to not close fully.
   
   
3. Depends on the boiler — You need a working boiler for a radiant system to work. So, you’ll need to figure out a way to include a boiler in your system and operate with it. It also adds to the final cost.
   
   

When it comes to the best heating for your room, you cannot rely on room heating alone.

While it’s effective and necessary, it only provides general warmth to your space. It doesn’t target specific areas and can be insufficient for people who need extra support to stay warm or fall asleep. 

To stay warm in winter, you need some heating products that help you target those specific issues such as your feet or shoulders. You may use products that help raise the temperature of your body or reduce humidity around you. These products may not directly add to room heating, but help you be more comfortable in your room by solving specific issues.

Sleep gadgets 

Sleep gadgets are focused on helping you achieve quality sleep by ensuring you have the right temperature throughout the night.

Electric underblankets, heating pads, and heating cushions are excellent complementary products that help you elevate the warmth while you sleep or relax in your bed. 

 

4D Dynamic Warmth Flow technology ensures even heat distribution, maintaining a consistent temperature.

 

Wellcare uses the dynamic 4D Dynamic Warmth Flow technology to distribute heat evenly and keep a consistent temperature through the night. So, your blanket is not just creating or generating heat, but also distributing it evenly to keep a consistent cozy environment around you. Coupling this with room heating will help you create the best heating for your room.

Heating cushions 

 

Heating cushion enhances the warmth in your room

 

A heating cushion is one of those portable heating products that can be a boon to people who struggle with colder climates or suffer from chronic pain. 

Here's how it helps elevate your comfort:

1. It uses electricity to produce heat and can be applied to any part of the body, say shoulder, back, or feet.
2. The heat provided by the cushion causes the blood vessels in the area to dilate, resulting in an increased flow of oxygen there.
3. This helps the muscles relax which in turn helps you relax and fall asleep with ease.

It’s affordable and convenient to use, making it the perfect complementary product to elevate your room heating wherever you go. 

Heating pads 

 

A heating pad which deliver immediate warmth.

 

Heating pads are thin rectangular pads that can be placed beneath you or on a body part to provide instant warmth to them. They are great products to carry around with you in case you need to soothe body pain or period cramps.

As they’re not bulky or take up too much space, you can place heating pads beneath you to provide constant heat to a particular body part all night and sleep comfortably. 

Wellcare’s heating pads are made with its revolutionary 4D Dynamic Warmth Flow technology that ensures that you receive consistent and comfortable warmth all through the night. It also comes with an auto switch-off function to avoid overheating or waste of resources.

Electric blankets 

 

An electric blanket in use.

 

Electric blankets are such dynamic heating products that you can find uses for them all through the year and not just in winter.

In winter, they are an excellent aid to your room heating system while in the summer, they help counter the cool air of the air conditioning with light warmth. This helps keep the overall temperature at a comfortable level for you to fall asleep.

The many benefits of electric underblankets include:

• They help maintain a comfortable temperature around your body to help you fall asleep quicker.
  
  
• They maintain the temperature through the night to enhance the quality of your sleep. 
  
  
• They help relax your muscles to relieve muscle and body aches.
  
  
• Heat therapy via electric blankets is a common practice that helps increase blood circulation and boost your health. 
  
  
• Comfortable warmth can also help you elevate your mood, helping you stay positive.
  
  
• As elder people are more sensitive to low temperatures, electric blankets are an effective solution for them all throughout the year.