Farm Journal

Thoughts and images from life at Foster Road

Journal Entries

High-tech Heating

When the old radiators were removed last fall, we found they were full of scale and rusting in many places. That opened the way for many choices for a heating system. The furnace is newer and hot water could be used again with new radiators. But what about air conditioning? And what about efficiency?

Out here, natural gas is not an option. Wood boilers are intriguing and have environmental appeal, but do I really have time to keep up with a wood system? I could install forced air ducts since we’ve gutted the place, but forced air has its limits too.

After a lot of online research, (and a weekend enjoying the heated bathroom floor at my brother Kevin’s house) I’ve opted to for radiant heat. Krell heating will provide the new 98% efficient furnace, a pre-made manifold panel, and the tubing and insulation to complete the work.

The new boiler will also provide domestic hot water and the system is zoned to provide the right level of heat to different parts of the house. Krell’s been great and told me if need be, we could install an evaporative cooler AC unit. We’ll see how the house feels this summer with the new insulation.

Krell recommended John Carr to do the furnace installation and he’s been a dream to work with. I’d recommend him to anyone who needs HVAC work, he’s honest, fair and knowledgeable. He also helped the crew through the early stages of installing the radiant tubing, generously giving them pointers and an encouraging thumbs up when they got it right.

By the time the whole thing is completed, it will be spring so we’ll have to wait until next season to give the system a try. Here’s hoping it will be it’s as delightful as expected.