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Robert Freeman
Robert Freeman is president and co-owner of Fenix Heating and Cooling. Robert, along with other principals, stared Fenix Heating Cooling in 1988, and is now one of the top 130 Lenox dealers in the U.S. Fenix specializes in residential and commercial installation for both remodel and new construction. Robert can be contacted at Fenix Heating & Cooling, 802 W. 2nd, Wichita KS 67203, by phone at (316) 945-4842, or by fax at (316) 265-4768.
Heating & Air Conditioning
2002-09-01 10:41:00
Different heating systems
:  We need a new furnace. Before we just replace what we have, we thought it might be a good idea to investigate all of the different heating systems for the home. What are they and what are the different fuels that are available.
Question:  We need a new furnace. Before we just replace what we have, we thought it might be a good idea to investigate all of the different heating systems for the home. What are they and what are the different fuels that are available. Answer:  There are several choices.  The furnace that most homeowners will be looking for will be a furnace that uses either natural gas or propane as the fuel source. Within this category, there will be varied choices:Lets start with what you are replacing. If your furnace is 20 years old it is about 60 to 65 percent efficient. If the furnace is older than 20 years it may only be 40 to 60% efficient.Now lets compare the efficiencies of today. The efficiencies will vary from 80 to 90% efficient.Within this range of efficiency, there are several differences. As a general rule, all 80% efficiency furnaces will have some type of automatic ignition system, thus eliminating the old pilot light. They will also have a fan assisted exhaust system that will be attached to your existing B-vent flue.When you consider the  90-92% efficiency furnace, there are other differences. First, the flue is entirely different. These furnaces use either a 2 inch or 3 inch PVC flue system. Most of the time the flue is run out the rim joist in the basement.Some of these furnaces feature a sealed combustion burning system. This is the best, as it provides the most efficiency and additional safety. But remember, they don’t all have this feature.Now for other fuels. Electricity is the second most predominate source. It can be used in several different ways. Electric furnaces using heat coils to provide heat. Air to air heat pumps, they extract heat from the outside air to heat your home. Water source heat pumps draw heat from the water to heat your home.When selecting a new heating system, here are some things to consider. How long do you plan to live in your home? If you are going to be in the same home for more than 5 years,  over time it will pay to put in a 90 - 92% efficient gas or propane sealed combustion furnace. The utility cost savings will pay for your new furnace.If however electricity is your heat source the purchase costs and operating costs vary so much that you will need a professional to give you guidance.But one constant remains, operating costs will continue to rise.
 
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