Choosing the right heating system is a big choice. Good choice keeps you warm and saves money. Malik Heating & Cooling in Kansas City can help with heating system installation and advice. This guide will help you pick a system that fits your house and your life.
Know the main types
There are four common kinds of systems.
- Furnaces burn gas, oil, or run on electric heat. They blow warm air through ducts.
- Boilers heat water and send steam or hot water to radiators or baseboards.
- Heat pumps move heat in and out of your home. They can heat and cool.
- Ductless mini-splits send warm air from small wall units. They fit homes with no ducts.
Think about your home size and layout
A big house needs a strong system. A small house needs less power. Old homes and new homes differ. Homes with many rooms need careful planning. Rooms on the top floor may be colder. Rooms in basements may be warmer. A pro does a load check to find the right size.
Learn what a load calculation is
A load calculation looks at windows, walls, roof, and doors. It checks insulation and the number of people. It checks local climate too. This test finds how much heat your home loses in winter. The right sized unit keeps the heat steady. Do not pick by guess.
Energy type and fuel cost
Gas can be cheap or costly depending on where you live. Electricity may cost more but some homes use only electric. Heat pumps use electricity but can be very efficient. Think about long term cost, not just the upfront price. Ask a local tech about fuel trends in Kansas City.
Efficiency ratings matter
Furnaces have an AFUE rating. The higher the AFUE, the less fuel wasted. Heat pumps have SEER and HSPF ratings for cooling and heating efficiency. Boilers show efficiency as a percent. Higher numbers mean less fuel use. Higher efficiency often costs more at first. But it can save money over time.
Noise and comfort
Some units are loud. Others run very quiet. Ductwork can make sound travel. Radiators are quiet but may take time to warm. Heat pumps run quietly. Think about where the unit will live and how noise matters in your home.
Space and installation needs
Furnaces and boilers need space. Boilers may need pipes for water. Heat pumps need outdoor space for the unit. Ductless systems need small wall units and an outdoor compressor. Check where the unit will go and if the space is ready.
Ducts or no ducts?
If your home has ducts, a furnace or heat pump that uses ducts may be best. If you have no ducts, look at boilers, ductless mini-splits, or high-velocity systems. Old ducts can leak. Leaky ducts waste heat. A duct check and seal can help any new unit work better.
Climate fit
Kansas City has cold winters and hot summers. Heat pumps work well if winters are mild to moderate. Cold-climate heat pumps are better for cold places. Gas furnaces perform well in very cold weather. Pick a system that fits local weather.
Budget: short term and long term
A new system has a sticker price. Installation cost adds up. High-efficiency units cost more up front. They may save money over years. Also think of repair cost and expected life. A cheap unit now may cost more in repairs later. Plan for a balance between price and quality.
Maintenance needs
All systems need care. Filters need change. Fans need cleaning. Boilers need water checks. Heat pumps need coil cleaning. A yearly tune-up keeps systems healthy. Ask how much upkeep each option needs. Think about your ability to do small tasks or your desire to buy a service plan.
Environmental goals
If you want a low-carbon home, consider heat pumps or high-efficiency electric units. New electric grid mixes make electric heating cleaner over time. Ask about rebates and local programs that help pay for efficient systems.
Zoning and control
Zoning lets you heat some rooms and not others. This saves energy and adds comfort. Smart thermostats learn your schedule and cut waste. A good control system can change how much comfort you get and how much you pay.
Lifespan and replacement parts
Furnaces and boilers often last 15–20 years with care. Heat pumps can last 10–15 years. Parts wear out. Check how easy it is to get parts and how much they cost. A brand with local service can be easier to keep running.
Safety and venting
Gas systems need proper venting. Boilers need safe vents and pressure checks. Heat pumps need safe electrical work. Carbon monoxide is a risk with faulty gas systems. Always have safety checks done by a licensed tech.
Rebates and incentives in 2025
Look for local and national rebates for efficient systems. Some programs help pay for heat pumps or high-efficiency furnaces. Ask your installer about current offers. These can cut the net cost a lot.
Ask the right questions
Ask the installer:
- Why this model for my home?
- What size did you pick and why?
- Where will the unit sit?
- What warranty is included?
- What yearly care is needed?
- Do you offer a service plan?
A quick link to our blog
Want to know which thermostat saves the most? See our blog on thermostat choices and home insulation for tips that pair well with a new system.
How Malik Heating & Cooling can help
We work with homes in Kansas City. We do load checks and show options. We can give clear costs and warranty info. We install and tune the system. We teach you how to use the controls. Call us to get a written plan and a fair price.
Final simple checklist
- Do a load calculation.
- Check ducts and seal leaks.
- Pick the right fuel for your budget.
- Match the system to your climate.
- Compare efficiency ratings.
- Ask about noise and space.
- Plan for long term cost and care.
- Check for rebates and incentives.
- Choose a licensed local installer.
- Keep yearly maintenance on the list.
Calm closing note
Pick one small step today. Write down two models you like. Call a pro for a free estimate. Take one breath and do one thing. Malik Heating & Cooling in Kansas City can help you pick the right system. You are not alone. Keep warm and take care.