New Forced Gas Hot Water Heating Furnace Questions

[Robert11]

Hello:

Live in a typical New England Colonial, outside of Boston.

Presently have a 30 year old Hydrotherm, gas, Forced Hot Water furnace.

2 Zones, via two individual circulators. Original system.

What we really love about this furnace is that it came with the Thermopile

ignition system (pilot light is always on and lit). We lose power often in the winter, and by running it as a gravity system (just open the two check valves, and put the switch in the position where it just cycles between the high and low furnace temp. limits) it works incredibly well.

We are always amazed at how well it works as a gravity system. Makes the house totally habitable even in the coldest of times, and therefore no need to drain the system, or seek shelter. Just wonderful.

Have been told that these thermopile type of systems are "absolutely" not available any more. Apparently there is some law regarding energy conservation and the way that is impacted by the always-on pilot.

a. Is this true ?

b. If so, any way around this, or alternate possibilities for power out situations ?

(other than an outside gas driven generator)

c. Who makes the "best" gas, forced Hot Water furnaces these days ?

Should I go with Hydrotherm again? Are they still in business ? Or...?

d. What, if any, options and bells and whistles with the furnace would I want to consider ?

What else should I probably be asking, but am not sharp enough with this stuff to really know what I don't know ?

Appreciate the help.

Thanks,

Bob

[k9miester]

Try a wood burning stove. A little work provides a lot of warmth.

[HeatMan]

Furnaces heat air, boilers heat water

The rest is in line.

Yep.

Big battery bank and an inverter.

Best is determined by the installer. Go with the company that installs it, not the brand. They have the training and the knowledge that goes with a line they know.

No clue.

We can't see through the internet what you have and what you may need. Find the installer and let them look at what you have. They'll run a heat load and make suggestions.

Go to the Wall. Best people in the business.