Octopus Furnace Replacement - DIY Chatroom

Buseboyz · 06-30-2009, 10:48 AM

I am a newbie to this site and I like what I have read here

. My son and I are looking very seriously to purchase an old home with gravity feed octopus furnaces (two). We are trying to estimate the cost to replace the furnaces and add central air. I will DIY all of the duct work and hire a licensed HVAC installer for the heat and air units. I completely understand the asbestos issues and can easily remove the old units. I am trying to get a better understanding of the duct work requirements. The heat ducts were placed on exterior walls, thank goodness for that. The return air ducts are on the first floor in the main living areas of the home. Can I use these return air ducts as is, or do I need to run new returns to the upstairs bedrooms?

beenthere · 06-30-2009, 06:29 PM

Your going to wnt to add a high return to the upstairs.

hvaclover · 07-01-2009, 12:17 AM

When you say you understand the asbestos issue can i assume you are using a EPA certified asbestos remediation service?

Also Ann Arbor has a requirement that a licensed metal man install and pull permits on the duct system.

DIY one thing but this is a for profit project you are doing where a buyer or tenants are concerned and not done professionally you will be endangering their lives..

If you take short cuts and remove the asbestos your self, don't even think about it. You do not have the proper training or equipment. You have to provide a certificate from the EPA approved asbestos removal company before you can demo the gravity furnace Ann Arbor building department takes a dim view of non- permitted work.

Think about it. Somebody here might just be the mechanical inspector.

Buseboyz · 07-01-2009, 04:09 PM

Permits will positively be pulled and I would not even consider removal of the asbestos

. The old furnace I can remove. Just wanted to get an idea if I need a return run up to the second floor. I am now sure I will need a return, which will run up to the attic (insulated in non living space) and use radial ducts to each bedroom thru the ceiling. Thanks for any and all replys