Considering HW heat-need suggestions

Hello, I have an old house being renovated, and have no choice but to replace the FA furnace. I know that replacing it with another FA furnace is the cheapest way to go in this situation (especially if I get a super efficient model), but I am considering HW heat, with those floor radiator things that are about 4" , and run along the baseboards, . Reason for this consideration is due to illness, and dust sensitivity issues. FA creates a lot of dust/air movement, and HW heat does not, and I have pets so FA makes air quality worse. What are other benefits to HW heat? How expensive is it to install? Are their tricks to saving additional $ with these systems? (yes I know about properly insulating house etc, but are their other tricks as well?). I have heard that boilers last longer than FA furnaces from many old timers, and they swear this is the way to go for even and consistant heat. I have been told it stays warmer longer and less problems with drafts. Drafts are always a problem for me, as I have problems regulating my body temp., and a small draft like from a cold air returns can chill my feet to the bone, taking me literally hours to recover from unless I take a really hot shower AND turn the heat up...
Is it more expensive to run a boiler system instead of a FA furnace? ~~~Catia

 

The ultimate in heating comfort is under floor or in-floor radiant. If you wish, each room could be made into a separate zone with it's own thermostat, but you're gonna pay.
Boilers do last a lot longer than scorched air furnaces & cost less to operate.

 

With HW heat, the dust and pet hair/dander will just accumulate and move around. It cannot be swept up because of the fineness.

A FA system gives you an opportunity to remove the dust with a good filtering system.

dick

 

Generally agree with these guys. The ultimate for HW is radiant under- or in-floor heat. It is very efficient to operate, and properly installed and controlled, a real joy to live in. After that, probably radiant panels on the wall, then after that standard baseboard as you describe. None will be inexpensive to install. Panel radiators might actually be simpler than baseboard.

Just get a couple estimates from competent pros in your area, especially if you go in- or under-floor. It's not rocket science, but a bad install is a nightmare to fix.
Good luck.

 

Thanks for the replies. I appreciate them a lot.
I do not believe i have ever seen the wall panels for HW heat--can you direct me to a site?
Also, can anyone direct me to a site for reference for proper installation, and also pricing?
Do they price by room or panel or sq foot or what?
This is an 8 room house, about 6 -12'x15' rooms , 1 10'x12' room, 1 full bath, 1 powder room, and an attic that will be finished15x20
I want too get an idea of the $$ before I even start thinking of an estimate, where they will pressure me. This may not even be in my budget, it may be off in the future.

 

One of the best programs available on line for doing a heat loss calculation is here: www.hvaccomputer.com
The cost for a homeowner is about $50 & worth every cent.
You can look at panel radiators & boilers here: http://www.buderus.net/
As for pricing, sorry, I can't help you there.