Joh Harris wrote:
Hi,

We are developing our basement and are receiving different
recommendations from different contractors. We have 8.5 foot ceiling
and want the basement to be warm. Some contractors state that it is
best to install the forced air heat runs close to the ceiling (near
windows) and cold air returns near the floor. Other contractors state
that the forced
air heats runs should be near the floor and the cold air returns
should be near the floor (across the room).

Before we invest all this money, does anyone know which recommendation
is correct? We live in Canada and do have cold winters. The main
"rec room" that will be developed in the basement will probably have a
gas fireplace. The total square footage of our basement is 850.

Any help or recommendations would be appreciated.

John
Hi,
My basement has hot air vent at floor level and return duct like you
mentioned. I think it's only logical. I live in Calgary. Basement is
~1300 sq. ft. of 2 storey house and ceiling is 8 ft. high.
Basement walls are insulated with R12 fiberglass batts with vapor
barrier top to bottom and it was finished when house was built.
It's cool in summer, warm in winter.
Tony