Connor Dillon sorts out the differences between SEER, SEER2, HSPF, and COP, all of... More
We all have heard of the importance of doing heat load calculations before... More
To choose between these two options, you need to understand their differences in... More
Tracking temperature, humidity, set point, and equipment runtime can uncover the... More
I have customers who wants me to build a log home that will be used seasonally, for about two months of the summer and another two months in the winter. During the rest of the year they want to leave the house closed up and unheated. We're at the edge of the Rocky Mountain Front Range in eastern British Columbia, and winter temperatures often fall to 20F. I've discouraged the clients from installing a hydronic heating system because of the difficulty of draining it twice a year (draining the domestic water will be headache enough), but what other potential problems should I be thinking about? I'm concerned that the radical swings in temperature could damage interior finishes More
How much insulation is necessary under a typical basement radiant slab? More
Q. I am renovating a barn where the existing concrete floor slopes approximately 6 inches in 30 feet. The architect wants me to build a level floor using wood sleepers with foam insulation in between, then pour a minimum 11/2-inch-thick radiant slab betwe More
Q: A customer asked me how to compare the cost of different heating fuels (natural gas, propane, oil, and electricity). Can you provide a chart with this information? More
Q: I have been called to solve an air-quality problem at a house with air-lock entries. The house has hydronic heat. The vestibules have no mechanical ventilation, and the air quality is poor. What type of ventilation do you suggest for these very small rooms? More
