It costs between $45,000 and $160,000 per month to heat an average home in the central zone
May 7, 2023
Comparing Heating Systems: Costs, Efficiency, and Environmental Impact
With the arrival of May, cold temperatures are becoming a constant across most of Chile, prompting many to begin their annual heating routine. As homeowners evaluate their options, costs, efficiency, and environmental impact are key considerations.
To aid in decision-making, the Ministry of Energy has launched an online platform allowing users to compare different heating systems based on operating costs. The results reveal price differences of up to CLP 115,000 per month (March–September) across three types of homes and different usage levels in central Chile (Valparaíso to Talca).
For an 80m² standalone house heated for 8 hours daily, the average monthly cost ranges between CLP 45,000 and CLP 160,000.
For smaller homes, heating costs vary between CLP 41,000 and CLP 162,000, while for 120m² homes, costs rise to between CLP 85,000 and CLP 302,000 per month, requiring two heating units.
Most Cost-Effective Heating Methods
According to the Ministry of Energy, the most economical heating method per square meter is air conditioning (A/C) due to its efficiency and heat generation technology:
| Heating Method | Average Cost (CLP/m² for 8 hours/day) |
|---|---|
| Air Conditioner (A/C) | CLP 696 |
| Pellet Stove | CLP 1,065 |
| Oil-Filled Heater | CLP 1,839 |
| LPG Gas Heater | CLP 2,473 |
“When heating a home, it is crucial to set the thermostat between 19-20°C to avoid excessive energy consumption and prevent negative health effects caused by overheating,” advises the Ministry of Energy.
Heating Equipment Costs: From CLP 150,000 and Up
Initial Investment vs. Operating Costs
Heating equipment prices vary by up to CLP 700,000, depending on technology and fuel type:
| Heating System | Average Initial Cost (CLP) | Average Monthly Cost (CLP) |
|---|---|---|
| LPG Gas Heater | CLP 150,000 | CLP 150,000 |
| Oil-Filled Heater | CLP 150,000 | Higher than A/C |
| Pellet Stove | CLP 845,000 | More efficient long-term |
| Split Inverter A/C | CLP 379,000 | ~ CLP 40,000 |
A Split Inverter A/C, the most efficient option, costs CLP 379,000 and has lower environmental impact. Over time, its monthly savings make it a cost-effective investment, despite the CLP 100,000 installation fee.
LPG gas heaters, while affordable (starting at CLP 150,000), have high operating costs, making them suitable only for small spaces and short-term use (under 15 minutes at a time).
Choosing the Right Heater for Your Home
According to Francisco Ramírez, academic and researcher at CENTRA UAI, the most important factor when selecting a heating system is knowing the size of the space to heat.
“For homes with multiple rooms, paraffin stoves are suitable. However, in small apartments, an infrared or convection electric heater is a better fit. Using a paraffin stove in a small space leads to intermittent operation, reducing its efficiency,” Ramírez explains.
Indoor Air Quality: A Critical Consideration
The Ministry of Environment’s Healthy Heating Guide recommends Inverter A/Cs due to their:
- Thermostat-controlled efficiency
- Competitive pricing
- Zero indoor air pollution
The Health Risks of Certain Heating Systems
Heaters using LPG gas or paraffin/kerosene emit pollutants, requiring constant ventilation, which reduces thermal comfort.
Humberto Álvarez, Director of Safety Engineering at Universidad Andrés Bello, warns:
“Pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) are denser than air, making them asphyxiating gases, posing serious health risks to residents.”
The Ministry of Energy also advises that gas and paraffin heaters increase indoor humidity, requiring more frequent ventilation, which lowers indoor temperatures.
Preventing Heat Loss: Home Insulation Matters
Energy consumption depends on both heating system efficiency and home insulation quality. Experts recommend improving insulation before investing in heating equipment to reduce energy loss.
The Ministry of Energy suggests:
- Insulating roofs and walls
- Replacing single-pane windows with double-glazed or thermal glass
“Although home insulation requires higher upfront costs, it reduces long-term energy consumption, resulting in economic savings and lower emissions,” they explain.
Additionally, regular heater maintenance extends equipment lifespan and reduces monthly energy costs.
“Understanding all available options allows homeowners to choose the most efficient heating system for their home, needs, and budget. Visit www.climatizatuhogar.cl to compare heating, cooling, and insulation solutions,” recommends the Ministry of Energy.
Source: El Mercurio.