Furnace size needed for new build skid shack

  • mark Mason
    Posts: 109
    #2051960

    I’m building an 8 x 18 foot skid shack with decent insulation- I’m looking at the Empire LP direct vent 25,000 btu unit and wondering if I can go smaller, like a 10k or 15k heating furnace?

    IceNEyes1986
    Harris, MN
    Posts: 1270
    #2051965

    I have a 10×20 skid house and use a 20,000BTU ventless. Works great. We had a 10,000BTU heater but that took a bit too long to get everything warmed up.. Traded straight up for the 20,000 from a buddy who had a much smaller shack & haven’t looked back.

    gizmoguy
    Crystal,MN
    Posts: 756
    #2052037

    A 15k would work. 20k would be better. Especially if you keep it warm all season. If you warm it up from frozen I would go with the 25k unit.
    If you have gas lights they are good for 2k btu constant with a infrared factor that helps warm up the adjacent surfaces.

    2aforlife
    Posts: 55
    #2052039

    I put the 25000 btu empire direct furnace in my wheel house and haven’t regretted it for a second. My house is 6.5 x 14 and is spray foamed so it’s quite easy to heat and the furnace rarely works hard. One time on Red Lake on a weekend trip with the wife and kids it got down to about -25 and the house stayed nice and warm.

    One thing I did you modify mine a little was installing a 12v brushless computer fan behind the front cover to circulate the warm air and that helps a lot. Empire offers a fan option that mounts in a similar fashion but my $5 computer fan is quiet, still moves a lot of air and has very minimal battery drain.

    Also, I would definitely recommend direct vent just for the lower moisture levels inside the house. Likely one reason you are considering it but I also sleep better knowing it’s vented outside.

    It’s an added expense to upgrade now but cheaper than going with the smaller unit and then having to change it out later

    The Pessimist
    Posts: 107
    #2052290

    I built an 8 x 18 wheelhouse with spray foam insulation. I have a 20,000 BTU Suburban forced air. One duct up front and I ran another to the middle of the house. I’ve spent many nights on the ice with temps below -20 and never had an issue.

    If I were in your spot, I’d stick with the 25,000 and not have to worry about it. If you have a family the best way to keep them out on the ice is to keep them warm and comfortable.

    Nice to see some ice talk in August!

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