Heating suggestions

[Mdaddyrabbit]

I would like to get some suggestions on the best way to heat my building. I have listed all the specs below for the building. If I missed anything please post and I will get further details.

build size: 30x48x12 A-frame
building type: metal
insulations: 2" foam insulation, Polyisocyanurate with radiant aluminum sheeting barrier with air pocket and sheet rock
Location: 60 miles from coast in north carolina
I have split the building in half with a wall because I will only need to heat one half for right now since it is a studio.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Large open spaces, especially in climates where they need both heating and cooling, SCREAM for mini-split heat pumps with multiple interior air handlers.

Pictures would be useful.

 

[Mdaddyrabbit]

Here is an image before insulation and wall.

 

[930dreamer]

I had a Reznor NG corner ceiling unit in my 30x40 and it worked well, a bit noisy.

 

[yeldogt]

Explain the insulation -- it's not clear. Not foam -- 2" foam board ?

Do you have natural gas? electric rates? Insulation under slab?



Reading its again -- you used the foam board on the walls/ ceiling with sheetrock covering the foam. Not sure what the air pocket adds? Slab?

 

[Mdaddyrabbit]

Foam board, no insulation under the cement. I only have option of electric or propane.

I read and researched for a while about different methods of insulation using R-value and cost. What I found was if I put the foam board against the outer walls and secure them there and then come over the metal studs with the foil insulation/radiant leaving a gap between the foil and the foam insulation that in the summer this will block out the radiant heat from baking the walls on the inside and cutting down on heat. I then went over that with sheet rock since it I need white wall for my photography.

 

[yeldogt]

I have high electric rates and propane around me is not cheap ... using a mini split with proper heat capacity for your area would work ... I'm sure you need AC. You could also install a though wall propane heater -- depending on those costs. I have both in my studio as well as resistance heat.

If you are ever going to want to AC the whole space -- think about it now. It may be as simple as adding a second mini split -- if you go that route.

 

[Mdaddyrabbit]

I have high electric rates and propane around me is not cheap ... using a mini split with proper heat capacity for your area would work ... I'm sure you need AC. You could also install a though wall propane heater -- depending on those costs. I have both in my studio as well as resistance heat.

If you are ever going to want to AC the whole space -- think about it now. It may be as simple as adding a second mini split -- if you go that route.

I looked at one of those Mr Cool 18k units. I don't know if that will be enough.....

 

[yeldogt]

Have to get a proper heat/ cool load calculation. No other way to figure it out.

You also have to think about the unheated/ non insulated slab -- How cold does it get?

What's the humidity level? Electric rates?

Some people have cheap electric making it easy and the only way to go. My electric is .20+KW. so ... I have to think about the electric costs.

 

[jd_1138]

You can add a cute little old fashioned pot belly stove to the mix to save some energy occasionally. Wood can be had for free or scrounged up.

 

[Mdaddyrabbit]

I wonder how many have used the Mr Cool split system and there opinions?