Heating Systems Guide

Compare heating systems for Denver's cold winters. Understand efficiency ratings, costs, and which systems work best at altitude.

Denver Heating Considerations

Denver's 5,280-foot elevation affects heating equipment performance. Gas appliances are typically derated 4% per 1,000 feet above sea level, and heat pumps lose efficiency in our cold winters. Choose a system designed for our unique climate conditions.

-10°F
Design Temperature
6,000+
Heating Degree Days
300+
Sunny Days/Year
20%
Equipment Derating

Heating System Comparison

Gas Furnace

Most common heating system in Denver. Burns natural gas to heat air, which is distributed through ductwork.

Denver Rating: 10/10
Efficiency
80-98% AFUE
Lifespan
15-20 years
Install Cost
$3,000 - $7,500 installed
Operating Cost
Low to moderate

Advantages

  • Most affordable to operate in Denver
  • Fast heating
  • Reliable in extreme cold
  • Works well at altitude
  • Easy to find service technicians

Disadvantages

  • Requires gas line
  • Ductwork needed
  • Can dry out air
  • Combustion safety concerns

Electric Furnace

Uses electric heating elements to warm air. Good backup option but expensive to operate.

Denver Rating: 5/10
Efficiency
100% (but high electricity cost)
Lifespan
20-30 years
Install Cost
$2,000 - $4,000 installed
Operating Cost
High

Advantages

  • Lower upfront cost
  • No combustion/gas
  • Longer lifespan
  • Simple installation

Disadvantages

  • Very expensive to operate
  • Slow heating
  • High electricity bills in cold weather

Boiler (Hydronic)

Heats water that circulates through radiators or in-floor tubing. Provides comfortable, even heat.

Denver Rating: 8/10
Efficiency
80-95% AFUE
Lifespan
20-30 years
Install Cost
$5,000 - $15,000 installed
Operating Cost
Moderate

Advantages

  • Even, comfortable heat
  • No ductwork needed
  • Quiet operation
  • Good for radiant floors
  • Doesn't dry air

Disadvantages

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Slower to heat
  • Requires radiators or tubing
  • Freeze risk if system fails

Heat Pump (Air Source)

Extracts heat from outdoor air. Very efficient but struggles in extreme cold.

Denver Rating: 6/10
Efficiency
200-300% COP
Lifespan
15-20 years
Install Cost
$4,000 - $8,000 installed
Operating Cost
Low (in mild weather)

Advantages

  • Very efficient in mild weather
  • Provides cooling too
  • Lower carbon footprint
  • No combustion

Disadvantages

  • Less efficient below 30°F
  • Needs backup heat in Denver
  • Higher upfront cost
  • Reduced capacity at altitude

Heat Pump (Ground Source/Geothermal)

Uses stable ground temperature for heating and cooling. Extremely efficient but expensive to install.

Denver Rating: 8/10
Efficiency
300-500% COP
Lifespan
25-50 years
Install Cost
$15,000 - $35,000 installed
Operating Cost
Very low

Advantages

  • Highest efficiency
  • Works in all temperatures
  • Very long lifespan
  • Lowest operating costs
  • Provides cooling

Disadvantages

  • Very high upfront cost
  • Requires land for ground loop
  • Complex installation
  • Limited installers in Denver

Radiant Floor Heating

Heats floors directly using hot water tubes or electric elements. Provides luxurious comfort.

Denver Rating: 9/10
Efficiency
Varies by heat source
Lifespan
30-50 years
Install Cost
$6 - $20 per sq ft
Operating Cost
Moderate

Advantages

  • Most comfortable heat
  • No dust circulation
  • Silent operation
  • Great for Denver's dry climate
  • Works with tile/concrete

Disadvantages

  • High installation cost
  • Slow response time
  • Difficult to retrofit
  • May need backup for extreme cold

Denver Heating Tips

Size your system for Denver's altitude - equipment is derated at elevation
Gas furnaces are most cost-effective for Denver's cold winters
Consider a high-efficiency (95%+ AFUE) furnace for maximum savings
Heat pumps need backup heat for when temperatures drop below 30°F
Programmable or smart thermostats save 10-15% on heating costs
Seal ductwork - leaky ducts waste 20-30% of heating
Add humidification - Denver's dry air feels colder
Zone heating can reduce costs in larger homes

Complete HVAC Information

Learn about cooling systems and maintenance for year-round comfort.

Cooling SystemsMaintenance Guide