Greetings!
I recently purchased a 20 year old, 3,400 sq/ft two story house (+1,400 sq/ft basement) in Maryland. We have a dual geothermal HVAC system (one for the 1st floor and basement and one for the second floor). The problem is that both systems are shot and irreparable. I've had five different HVAC companies confirm this. A new HVAC system(s) at this point is out of the question because of cost. I guess that the positive is that the systems are forced air and the blowers still work.
My thought is to go with a wood burning furnace that can utilize the pre-existing duct work.
We have six acres of wooded land. The downside is that it is mostly pine--Virginia pine and loblolly. Many people have cautioned against burning pine, though a friend suggested that it's fine as long as I make sure that it's seasoned--and thus will take more time than hardwood.
Here are my questions:
1) Can i run a system just burning the pine, and if so, are there any drawbacks or precautions that I need to consider?
2) I assume a wood furnace would be the best as far as price and efficiency go. I have seen the Drolet Heatmax and Tundra, Kuuma Vapor Fire 100, PSG Max Caddy recommended on here. Any thoughts on what might be best in my situation? Does burning pine make the Kuuma more attractive?
3) What other things should I consider in this process?
Also, if I left out any important details, please let me know.
Thank you in advance!
I recently purchased a 20 year old, 3,400 sq/ft two story house (+1,400 sq/ft basement) in Maryland. We have a dual geothermal HVAC system (one for the 1st floor and basement and one for the second floor). The problem is that both systems are shot and irreparable. I've had five different HVAC companies confirm this. A new HVAC system(s) at this point is out of the question because of cost. I guess that the positive is that the systems are forced air and the blowers still work.
My thought is to go with a wood burning furnace that can utilize the pre-existing duct work.
We have six acres of wooded land. The downside is that it is mostly pine--Virginia pine and loblolly. Many people have cautioned against burning pine, though a friend suggested that it's fine as long as I make sure that it's seasoned--and thus will take more time than hardwood.
Here are my questions:
1) Can i run a system just burning the pine, and if so, are there any drawbacks or precautions that I need to consider?
2) I assume a wood furnace would be the best as far as price and efficiency go. I have seen the Drolet Heatmax and Tundra, Kuuma Vapor Fire 100, PSG Max Caddy recommended on here. Any thoughts on what might be best in my situation? Does burning pine make the Kuuma more attractive?
3) What other things should I consider in this process?
Also, if I left out any important details, please let me know.
Thank you in advance!
