Questions about a new home! :) (appliances, buyer, new construction)

[BC1234LI]

Hi everyone.

My husband and I found a home that we really like and are likely going to put an offer on.

It is a new construction home. The builder built 2 other homes next to this one...we spoke to one of the neighbors, and she had good things to say about the builder.

We just had a couple of questions.

The builder is putting in a ventless gas heating system in the house (in the basement). We don't know much about these systems. Any thoughts?

My husband also noticed small cracks in the drywall - one was by an outlet another by the stairs. Is this normal to see in a new home?

Thank you for any thoughts/comments you may have for us!!!!

[rocafeller05]

^^ What type of fuel does this heating system run off of?

[BC1234LI]

It will be a gas burner. The house will be heated by hot water baseboards.

[rocafeller05]

It cant be ventless. The only heating system that doesnt require some type of vent and fresh air is electric. A gas fired boiler has combustion and those gases have to be vented outdoors.

[totallyfrazzled]

I know there are various models of ventless gas fireplaces and space-heater type gas appliances but have never heard of a whole-house ventless heating system.

Are you sure the builder didn't mean "baseboard heat and a ventless gas fireplace in the basement" (if the basement contains a den or other living space the doesn't otherwise have a heat source)?

[BC1234LI]

I am sure he did not mean there was a ventless fireplace in the basement. The basement is unfinished - and is not being finished by the builder.

[totallyfrazzled]

Originally Posted by BC1234LI

I am sure he did not mean there was a ventless fireplace in the basement. The basement is unfinished - and is not being finished by the builder.

Wow... that's odd, I've never heard of a ventless heating system. Even did a quick Google for "ventless gas" and the only things that came up were fireplaces, log inserts, stoves and such.

Why don't you ask the builder to supply you with some informational materials about the system he's installing? I'm sure that you're not the first prospective buyer who has never heard of that type before and so he shouldn't be surprised at the request. However, if he balks at or avoids supplying or directing you to such information IMO that should be a red flag for you.

You could also check with the Building Dept of the township the house is located in. If the other two houses he built have the same heating system they will know all about it because the permits and everything will be on file.

[BC1234LI]

Thanks

Our agent is requesting info from the builder about the heating system for us, but we figured we'd ask around to hear from others as well.

Our google search didn't return much either. My husband found some info, but not much. Basically we found that is system is very efficient, but since there are no vents the burners (and gas heating) will produce water which will build up in the basement.

[rocafeller05]

^^ A ventless heating system for any sleeping quarters is not allowed by most codes. The builder is probably installing a condensing boiler but doenst know how to explain it or doesnt know what he's talking about.

Condensing boiler - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

[llama8]

Make sure you get an inspection..even with new homes. An inspector will make sure everything is to code and answer all of your questions. Make your offer is contigent on passing inspection.