1 minute read
Finding the right HEAT FOR YOU
By Alison Stucke
For Duluth News-Tribune
What kind of heating do the experts recommend for home builders and owners in our area today? What’s going to keep you warm and be most efficient and cost-effective? In-floor radiant heat and forced air heat are your best options for many reasons, they said. But how do you choose between the two types?
In-floor radiant heat
“It all depends of the type of house you have,” said Steve Bruckelmyer, co-owner of Summit Mechanical. “For a concrete slab house, in-floor radiant heat is best.”
“It gives a more even, comfortable temperature,” added Dale Blesener, owner of Blesener Heating.
In-floor radiant heat is created with a high-efficiency gas boiler. Heated water is pumped from the boiler and flows through tubing in the floor. Additionally, high-efficiency heat pump/air conditioner mini-split units can be placed throughout the house to provide extra heat.
“You can install the mini-splits in up to eight different locations throughout the home,” Blesener said. “They’re even cheaper than gas to operate.”
These suitcase units are mounted on the wall with a corresponding unit outside. No ducts are required.
During warmer weather, these units can provide air conditioning.
Blesener is such a big fan of this type of heat that he makes this statement: “On all new homes I would say get in-floor radiant heat and install mini splits.”
Forced air heat
“For homes with basements, go with a high-efficiency furnace and forced air heat,” Bruckelmyer said.
“The benefit of a forced air system is you can also have air conditioning with it.”
The duct work required throughout the house for forced air heating can be used to cool upper levels with a split system air conditioning unit.
If you want in-floor radiant heat in the basement and/or in an attached garage with a concrete floor, that would also be an option
ENDLESS CHOICES START DREAMING!
The cost saving of highefficiency units
No matter what type of heat you select for your home, be sure to purchase and install a high-efficiency furnace and/or boiler and other heating/cooling units. The cost savings will soon add up and even pay for the unit.
“High efficiency units are the way to go,” said Bruckelmyer. You can get a 90 percent or more annual fuel utilization efficient (AFUE) furnace or boiler — meaning
HEAT: Page 6
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
• Flooring options have expanded
• Choosing gutters for your home
• How agents and sellers can work together
• Must-haves for an amazing kitchen remodel
• Surviving a home renovation
• Basement remodeling tips
• Scrumptious Spring Salads
