I am yet another new girl in serious need of some guidance. Last week, I bought a bungalow in Oak Park, Illinois (just outside Chicago). It currently has hot water radiator heat and lacks air conditioning. The furnace appears to be about fifteen years old.

My husband would like to switch to gas forced air heat and include air conditioning in the mix. Part of the rationale for switching to forced air is would be to remove the pipes that run directly through the middle of the basement (he has to duck when he walks through it). The thought is that would could run the ductwork around the perimeter of the basement and/or through the attic in order to gain more head room/usable space. He also would like to gain floor space by removing radiators.

We do plan to contact several companies to request estimates but I am at a loss trying to determine just what I need to ask for and if I should be focusing on certain manufacturers (Carrier, Lennox, etc.)

The house itself is 1243 sf. Two levels, plus a basement. The upper level consists of a bedroom, den and bath. The lower level consists of a sunroom, two bedrooms, living room, dining room and a kitchen.

If anyone has any suggestions, they would be appreciated. Type of system to ask for, the right questions to ask and so forth. Or if there are any good websites you can direct me to so I can educate myself, I would appreciate that too.

Thank you so much for your help!