Gravity Heat Systems - Steer Clear?

[Sean Wilt]

Looking at my first flip and some of the properties I am looking at have "gravity heat" systems. Honestly, I had never heard of this!  But google says, probably ought to replace.    Should I just steer clear of these properties?   Not really sure how much is involved with replacement as some items have seen say there may be asbestos in the duct work.   These properties are older and generally on the low $ end so there is not much room based on ARVs to replace entire system but wondering if leaving it in would scare away buyers.

[James Mc Ree]

A gravity heat system is based on physics: heat rises, and nothing else. It may be a gas furnace that has a flame in the basement and that heat eventually rises through the ducts to the 2nd floor. There probably is no return ductwork, so the upstairs can be toasty while the basement is chilly. The system is very old, so you will probably want to replace it. Buyer might not notice, but Buyer's home inspector will definitely notice.

I bought one of these with a property in 2013. Upon inspection, flame rolled out from under the furnace because the asbestos was worn away. I asked Seller to replace it which they did. I then added central air. It was then that I learned central air without returns doesn't work nearly as well as with returns, so I added returns in a subsequent renovation.

I don't think you should avoid these properties. Replacing the furnace will allow you to market the property with an awesome, new fuel efficient furnace instead of a fuel hog that could break on any day. They actually are very reliable as they have no moving parts. That's why they are still in use.