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QUESTION:Retiring a hot air gas fired furnace after about 40 years of trouble free
service. I am in the Northeast. No estimates as yet, but my own research
has shown that the best replacement choice(s) are the 80% or 90% eff
furnaces. What I am not too sure about is the basic differences between
their respective installations. That is: using existing connection to
chimney (new flue liner required?) vs venting directly to the outside. Inlet
air to the furnace taken directly from the outside (Is this what is meant by
a make-up air system?). Do both types of furnaces produce condensate that
must be disposed of? Is the condensate pumped to the outside or need to go
to an internal drain such as the washing machine drain line? I currently
have an AC evaporator coil above the furnace and a 3/4 in. AC condensate
drain line piped to the outside--could this be utilized for the furnace
drain too? I would like to get some practical recommendations--What do I
need to know in order to make the best decision> what questions do I need
to ask? Is cost a big factor between the two furnace types?
ANSWER: Search for the best installer you can find.
The equipment will be *"Junk"* if not installed properly!
Think about draining a condensate line to the outside in the winter. (think
it will freeze?)
I say, yes at 32 degrees.............so, don't do it!
80% don't condensate.......only the 90% and up.
It's not make-up air, what you are talking about is combustion air.
My opinion is, if you have a lot of months which are cold go with the 90%.
(which in the NE you should have plenty)
Chimney liner is normally required (all depends on chimney) if you go 80%.
(but, check local requirements and codes)
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