What is the most suitable heating system for a 600-square-foot unit in California?
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Dear Mr. Sir,
I am going to convert a 600 sft structure (used to be a detached garage and extension) into a two bedrooms dwelling. Current, there is a bathroom existed and laundry facilities with gas and electricity within structure.
The dwelling is located in San Francisco – Bay area where it has a mild winter (temperature rages from 40 – 65 F).
I’d like to get an advise on the heating system as to what is the most efficient and suitable heating system for a small 600sft space considering the system installation, cost of energy usage and maintenance.
Many thanks in advance!
Red
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Replies
Red,
It's probable that a ductless or ducted minisplit system (a type of air-source heat pump) would make the most sense, but it's really impossible to provide advice without a lot more information (a floor plan, a description of the building's insulation levels, more information on windows, and -- ideally -- a heating and cooling load calculation).
It sounds as if you may need to consult an architect, mechanical engineer, or experienced HVAC contractor.
A half-ton MItsubishi FH06NA would pretty much cover it, unless you build it out in an EXTREMELY sub-code manner.
Panel radiators or baseboards operating on a condensing hot water heater could cover it if it's a heating-only situation. Cost of operation would be comparable to an FH06, but the carbon footprint is much higher.