Ease of operation of all types of heating systems - part of the Heat Infographic project

I am wondering what are we going to use as metric for ease of operation?

Maybe something like: easy, medium, hard, extremely hard?

Or something measured in hours of work needed from a human?

Or some other, better way ?

I asked https://beta.openai.com/playground?model=text-davinci-003 the following question for each category of heat.

How easy is a xxxx system to operate? Easy, medium, hard, or extremely hard? Give me sources and examples.

Electric Baseboard

Electric baseboard systems are very easy to operate. All you need to do is set the thermostat to the desired temperature and the system will take care of the rest. Sources:

1. https://www.hometips.com/buying-guides/baseboard-heaters.html

2. https://www.energystar.gov/products/heating_cooling/electric_baseboard_heat

3. https://www.sylvania.com/en-us/applications/residential/electric-heating/electric-baseboard-heaters

Mini Splits

Mini split systems are quite easy to operate. Most systems feature a user-friendly interface that can be operated with a few simple buttons. Many mini-split systems also come with a remote control, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance. Additionally, some models feature a smartphone app that allows you to control settings from your phone. Examples of well-reviewed mini-split systems include Mitsubishi, Daikin, and Fujitsu. Sources:

1. https://www.energystar.gov/products/heating_and_cooling/ductless_mini_split_heat_pumps

2. https://www.consumerreports.org/hvac/best-mini-split-hvac-systems/

3. https://www.qualitysmith.com/mini-split-heat-pump

In Ground Heat Pump

In ground heat pump systems are relatively easy to operate. Most systems come with a user-friendly interface and can be set up to run automatically or manually. Sources and examples of this include:

1. Many manufacturers have videos and tutorials available to help customers understand how to operate their systems. This can include setting up the system and monitoring it.
2. Automated heat pump systems include smart thermostats that can be programmed to run the system according to pre-set schedules.
3. Online forums provide helpful information from experienced users who can answer questions and provide advice on how to use the system.
4. Professional installation services can be called upon to assist with the setup and maintenance of the system.
5. Reputable suppliers of heat pump systems provide customer support and troubleshooting advice.

Natural Gas

Natural gas systems are generally considered to be easy to operate. Many appliances that use natural gas are designed with user-friendly features to make them easy to use. Some examples of easy-to-operate natural gas systems include gas stoves, furnaces, and water heaters. Additionally, natural gas systems are designed to be safe and reliable, and many companies offer customer service and technical support to help with installation and maintenance. Sources:

1. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/natural-gas-systems
2. https://www.consumersenergy.com/energy-explained/natural-gas/how-natural-gas-works
3. https://www.homeserveusa.com/blog/how-does-a-natural-gas-system-work/

Propane

Propane systems are generally considered to be relatively easy to operate. The majority of propane systems are designed for easy installation and use, and don't require complicated technical knowledge or specialized tools to operate. Sources:

1. https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-use-a-propane-tank-4128358
2. https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/understanding-propane-systems/9ba683603be9fa5395fab907a9bcd1e
3. https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-install-a-propane-tank/

Wood Stove

Wood stoves are relatively easy to operate. Most systems require only basic knowledge of lighting and controlling a fire, and can typically be operated by almost anyone. Sources such as Popular Mechanics and Mother Earth News provide step-by-step instructions on how to light and maintain a wood stove. Additionally, many manufacturers provide detailed instructions and diagrams on their websites, along with helpful videos demonstrating the process.

Modern wood stove

Modern wood stove systems are easy to operate. They typically have an electronic control panel or thermostat that allows you to adjust the fire and set the desired temperature. You may also be able to use a smartphone app to monitor and control the stove's performance. Sources and examples of modern wood stoves include the US Stove 2200i, Blaze King Princess, and the Hearthstone Heritage.

Pellet Stove

A pellet stove system is relatively easy to operate. Many models come with an automatic ignition and a simple control panel. For example, the Quadra-Fire® Castille Pellet Stove from Quadra-Fire® features a 1-touch ignition and a digital touch screen for controlling temperature, fuel feed rate, and blower speeds. Sources:

1. https://quadrafire.com/heating/pellet-stoves/castille
2. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Quadra-Fire-Castille-Pellet-Stove-7100-I-with-IntelliFire-Ignition-7100I/204569071

Masonry Heater

Masonry Heater systems are relatively easy to operate. Many systems are designed with a self-regulating draft and feature a single control, such as a thermostat, to adjust the heat output. With minimal maintenance and occasional cleaning of the flue, a masonry heater can provide reliable, efficient heat for many years. Sources and examples include:

1. Heatmasterss: https://www.heatmasterss.com/how-to-operate-a-masonry-heater/
2. Heat for Less: https://heatforless.com/masonry-heater-operation/
3. Stone Age Manufacturing: https://www.stoneagemanufacturing.com/masonry-heater-operation/

Rocket Mass Heater

Rocket Mass Heater systems are relatively easy to operate. It is a low-maintenance system, and many users report that once it is set up, they rarely need to make adjustments. For example, one user on the Green Homes Forum reported that after the initial setup, their Rocket Mass Heater only required a few minutes of maintenance each year. Additionally, the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association has created a guide for the operation of Rocket Mass Heaters, which outlines the process of installation, operation, and maintenance.

So it seems we need to qualify what we mean by "easy."

Maybe:

"set-and-forget"
"requires human discipline"
"requires physical action"
"will fail if not monitored"
"will cause damage to health or property if not used properly"

What other suggestions for this "ease-of-use" metric?

Some of Paul's suggestions from today:

Thermostat - set it and forget it

Feed the system (i.e. lay up six cords of wood and feed the system all winter, or buy several tons of pellets and haul them in a sack at a time)

Or maybe we want to have a number, like "10-best" is mega easy (thermostat) and
wood stove gets a "0-best", modern wood stove gets a 2, and RMH maybe gets a 5.