Subject:
Cooling, Heating and Airport Noise Topic:
Heating and CoolingQuestion:
Our 1650 SF rambler was built in '54 and we want to replace the old, original oil furnace with something more modern and efficient. We also want to be able to cool the house and clean the air in the house. Even tho this is technically considered a temperate climate, we don't like the hot summer weather. Additionally we live close to the airport so the pollution is an issue especially in the heat of summer. We're thinking of an electric heat pump. What is your advice/recommendation? We plan to hire a contractor to do all the work. We've had 2 estimates this week for a heat pump and one for a new oil furnace and air conditioner a few weeks ago. The estimates range from $7500-$9200 w/o tax so far. One estimate says we need more duct work for the heat pump. There's gas at the street but not to the house and we're not too keen on gas. There's so much to consider and we want to pick the right system. We're planning on staying in the house for many years. We're not rich but are willing to spend the money to get it done right. We also want to add some insulation to the attic (and possibly in the walls of our bedroom to dampen noise from the airport). Thank you for your time. Your website is a wealth of information! :)
- Ted and Beverly from Burien, WA
Answer:
Based upon your questions, it seems to me that you have already learned a great deal about your heating, cooling and noise issues. Let me suggest the following:
(1) The best source for airplane noise mitigation help is the local airport authority, in your case, the Port of Seattle. I have seen many homes that were modified for sound insulation with their help ? and sometimes their $$$ and I think they have some very good ideas and expertise. So give them a call and see how they might help.
(2) I agree with you that natural venting is not a good summer cooling solution in an area with airplane noise. But don?t forget about exterior shading. $100 worth of bamboo shades on the east and west facing windows of you home can reduce a great deal of sun exposure, heat buildup and reduce cooling costs.
(3) I used to urge people to switch to gas because it appeared to be a much less expensive way to heat a house and a less expensive way to back-up a heat pump. But with de-regulation I think it matters very little. If you don?t like gas then I think that you should go with the electric heat pump.
(4) The HVAC contractor who told you that heat pumps require a larger duct system is most probably correct. You can think about it this way, heat pumps produce a larger volume of warm air, furnaces a smaller volume of hot air. Heat pumps usually need larger ducts.
Thanks for the kind note about the web site.
George
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