We inherited a home in the NW pa, We are in the process of fixing it up to use as Summer home, we love it there in the Summer. My question is, what kind of heating system should I use to keep the house from freezing in the Winter that both save and economical. Would Heat pump be my answer? Any help would greatly appreciated
jcheck

I believe it is to cold in your area for a heat pump only system. A lot depends upon what fuels are available in your area. Natural gas,Propane,Fuel oil?

This question needs to be answered first so we know what selection you have for second stage heat. What system is in the home now?

BTW heating bills are not cheap in PA no matter what you use to heat with. It is a cold area.

Thanks for your reply, since the house sat emtry for quite some time, there is only a small propane heating unit.
All I need is something to keep the house above freezing and the moiseture down, at about 35 - 40 degree.

Thanks for your reply, since the house sat empty for quite some time, there is only a small propane heating unit.

If that small unit worked keep using it OR get a new one just like it.

All I need is some thing to keep the house above freezing and the moisture down, at about 35 - 40 degree.

Moisture? Usually there is no moisture problem unless there are water problems with the house. Winter has a drying effect on houses. Now if the propane heater is vented into the home or is a non vented type that could be a problem.


If I were very concerned I would have a phone line in there and a auto dialer to l;et me know when the temp fell below the set point. OR I would have a answer type machine that would let me call that houses phone number to check on the temperature. That way I would know exactly what is going on with the property at all times.

There are many options. I use the pink antifreeze in my place at all the drains and blow the water lines with compressed air. Then it can get as cold as it wants since the lines will not freeze. I still have a small furnace set to about 40 degrees to prevent other problems but if it fails at least the water lines will not rupture.

Thanks for all your help, I will give those options a try.