Heat Pump . Heat pump systems extract warmth from air, water, or subsoil, and then distribute it within the home. Most basic home heat pumps are air-source heat pumps, which use the outside air to extract heat, even on the coldest days. Heat pumps are highly energy-efficient heating systems, as they rely on electricity mostly to move the heat rather than create it., For heat pump systems, however, the temperature does not need to be lowered when you are sleeping or away from home. Heat pumps are so efficient the rule for these systems is to "set it and forget it". Just be sure to set the temperature at a reasonable temperature. Clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month or as recommended., “Electric heating systems use electricity to produce and circulate heat throughout your home instead of relying on natural gas,” says Darcy Lee, senior product manager for Trane Residential, which offers heating and cooling systems nationwide. “That means, when you choose an electric heating option, like a heat pump or hybrid system, you , Luckily, this is an easy do-it-yourself (DIY) job for most homeowners. Most heating systems should be annually inspected, cleaned, and serviced by a professional. A licensed HVAC technician should check your heating system in the fall and air conditioner in the spring. You can expect to pay $75–$200 for an annual tune-up., Direct heating systems emit heat directly from the heating element, instead of relying on ducts and pipes or an exchange with outdoor air. Electric Space Heaters. Michael Dechey/Shutterstock. An electric space heater plugs into a standard electrical outlet and uses that energy to warm internal heating elements that generate heat. The three , This type of heating system is called a ducted warm-air or forced warm-air distribution system. It can be powered by electricity, natural gas, or fuel oil. Inside a gas- or oil-fired furnace, the fuel is mixed with air and burned. The flames heat a metal heat exchanger where the heat is transferred to air. Air is pushed through the heat .