20,000 btu

[thurston]

I have been told my 900 sq. ft 2 story semi-detached home needs only 20,000 btu of heating.
I intend staying here for a very long time and want the best system I can buy.
It seems the 2 stage variable is best for comfort, but will it even operate in 2 stages?
The salesmen I've had here both suggested 2 stage variable, but even on 1'st stage they are 37000 btu.
Still seems like overkill to me.
They also say I don't need a 2 stage stat. Is that because they know that stage 2 will never happen?
What does the forum think?

[gbfromsd]

Well, your 20kbtu seems close if slightly low but really - insufficient data. Depends greatly on where, type of structure etc.

Is the 20k the result of a heat load calc? Just as bad to grossly oversize as to undersize to make sure it's right.

[tundra]

You may want to consider a Toyostove. It burns kerosene or #1 stove oil. Model "Laser 56" 22,000btu on high, 15,000btu on medium, 8,000btu on low. Must be placed on an outside wall and have an electrical outlet nearby. They are a favorite here locally and we see -40F most years. If you have natural gass you might want to look into a Rinaii.

[beenthere]

Just get a 40,000 90+, VS furnace instead.

[docholiday]

You said you want the best...You're salesman needs to look at some real data.

Look at the Rheem Mod 90. It is the best, and in the 60k input model the lowest firing rate has an output of just 22,560 btuh's. Treat your small home like a big one.

If you live in the deep south you could go with a 2 stage VS, 80% furnace. A low 50k input unit will fire as low as 28k and still give you great comfort.