ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Sunday, January 21, 1996 TAG: 9601230029
SECTION: HOMES PAGE: D1 EDITION: METRO
COLUMN: Cut your utility bills
SOURCE: JAMES DULLEY
Q: I should replace my old gas furnace with a new super-efficient model. Which type of super furnace provides the best comfort and most even room temperatures? Will variable-speed/output models save more?
A: Variable-speed, two-stage heat output gas furnaces provide the best comfort and indoor air quality (allergy control). You can expect a savings of 40 to 50 percent on your total heating costs (gas and electricity).
Other than in the most severe weather, typically only 10 percent of the time, a two-stage furnace operates in the extra quiet low heat output and slow blower speed mode.
This reduces indoor temperature swings and that initial gust of cold air followed by a blast of hot air each cycle. This is because the furnace runs longer each cycle in the low-heat stage. These furnaces are extremely quiet.
Two-stage heat makes good common and energy sense. You wouldn't buy a car with only one speed-full throttle (foot to the floor) or totally off.
Variable-speed blowers use either electrically commutated (ECM) or integral controlled (ICM) motors. On continuous air circulation so the air cleaner works continuously (for allergy sufferers), the savings in electricity for the blower is $300 per year.
Do not just compare the Annual Flue Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings to determine the most efficient models. Testing regulations have not kept up with the newest technologies.
All gas furnaces are tested only in the highest output mode. The electricity savings from the ECM or ICM are not taken into account, either.
Single-stage/speed gas furnaces typically cost several hundred dollars less than two-stage models. They too use stainless steel condensing heat exchangers. These capture nearly all the heat from the gas for your house.
Condensing furnaces are simple to install because a chimney is not needed. The exhaust gases, only 140 degrees, are vented outdoors through a 2-inch plastic pipe. Switching from expensive electric to gas heat is simple.
Sealed combustion designs reduce drafts and minimizes hazards of carbon monoxide poisoning. The combustion process is totally sealed from indoor air.
A small plastic pipe brings outdoor combustion air into the side of the furnace. The burners are totally sealed. An induced draft fan sucks the air through the burners and forces the exhaust gases outdoors again.
For a buyer's guide of 21 superefficient single and two-stage furnaces listing heat outputs, efficiencies, blower speeds, dimensions, sealed combustion and a savings payback chart, write to James Dulley, The Roanoke Times, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, Ohio 45244. Ask for Update Bulletin No. 610. Include $2 and a business-size self-addressed stamped envelope.
Q: I burn my open fireplace often, both for the heat and the aesthetics I use newspapers to get the fire started. Can I use old rolled up newspapers exclusively in my fireplace?
A: Old newspapers burn well, but you should not use them exclusively. A mix of half wooden logs and half newspaper logs provides a more complete burn.
Be careful when burning newspapers in your fireplace. Newspaper can flare up and cause flash fires. Over time, these flash fires can cause small stress cracks and the glass may fracture. Hot ashes can be blown out into your room. Be careful when storing newspapers. They are a potential fire hazard.
LENGTH: Medium: 65 lines ILLUSTRATION: GRAPHIC: Super furnace saves money, improves comfort andby CNBsafety.