Heating systems more than three to five years
old can usually be improved through addons,
modifications, or improved maintenance.
Most combustion units are oversized, for instance
— particularly if the house has had insulation
added since the unit was installed — and most
have unsophisticated control systems. In addition,
heat distribution systems can usually be improved
through adjustment, new products, or in the case
of air systems, tightening of the ductwork.
The options presented here are among the most
promising and practical, and should apply to the
65% of our nation's homes that are heated by
forced hot air and the 10% heated by forced hot
water. Remodeling contractors who educate
themselves about these options