Hello everyone. I am fortunate to have just found this forum. I have been reading all day long and have learned quite a bit already.
I have a conventional split level home that just me and the wife occupy. (1200 sq ft upper, 1000 sq ft lower) The lower level has the traditional fire place in the big play room. Right now, we have FHW Oil heat . 2 Zones .. I keep the lower level at about 58 degrees and upstairs about 66-68 when we are home, because of course oil is costing so much. I am past the point of thinking and trying to logically decide what is the best style for my home and where is best overall place to install it in my house. First I thought that I would place it in our living room on the second level where we are all of the time. Then I was reading about someone here that had a Harmon or Astoria Insert in there 1st level. I believe they said they kept the temperature there at 78 and the 2nd level was around 70. That actually sounds pretty good. But of course how do I know if it will actually get to 70 upstairs and might I be disappointed after making the investment and finding out that I should of done something else. Will the 78 degree heat radiate through the floors to make it 70 or so at the main level? Will a P68 Harmon or something equivalent to that size do what I want it to do? Is there a benefit to using the fireplace insert vs a freestanding? (other than altenative pellet fuel) I know it would definitely look good down there but on the other hand, we are not down there much except to exit the house. I sure could use some direction and suggestions. Thanks...
I have a conventional split level home that just me and the wife occupy. (1200 sq ft upper, 1000 sq ft lower) The lower level has the traditional fire place in the big play room. Right now, we have FHW Oil heat . 2 Zones .. I keep the lower level at about 58 degrees and upstairs about 66-68 when we are home, because of course oil is costing so much. I am past the point of thinking and trying to logically decide what is the best style for my home and where is best overall place to install it in my house. First I thought that I would place it in our living room on the second level where we are all of the time. Then I was reading about someone here that had a Harmon or Astoria Insert in there 1st level. I believe they said they kept the temperature there at 78 and the 2nd level was around 70. That actually sounds pretty good. But of course how do I know if it will actually get to 70 upstairs and might I be disappointed after making the investment and finding out that I should of done something else. Will the 78 degree heat radiate through the floors to make it 70 or so at the main level? Will a P68 Harmon or something equivalent to that size do what I want it to do? Is there a benefit to using the fireplace insert vs a freestanding? (other than altenative pellet fuel) I know it would definitely look good down there but on the other hand, we are not down there much except to exit the house. I sure could use some direction and suggestions. Thanks...