 |
| Black coal smoke billows from the Courthouse each time the old furnace is fired up. |
Most of the Webster County Courthouse in Webster Springs continues to be heated by an old coal-fired furnace, which heats and circulates hot water through a system of radiators throughout the building.
 |
| Coal furnace in basement of the Webster County Courthouse. |
According to maintenance technician Randy Hines, the Courthouse uses about four to five loads of coal, at about 17 tons each, throughout a typical year. Coal ash and waste is taken to the landfill in Craigsville as much as twice per week.
 |
| Coal ash and waste. |
This old system's reliability continues to be tested as it ages. Costs for a new electric heat pump system ranges as high as $125,000.00. The newer, renovated office space on the third floor of the Courthouse is currently heated and cooled by a heat pump system.
The main, larger portion of the Courthouse was constructed beginning in 1888, and the jail and center sections were completed by the 1920's.
 |
| Coal room with new coal. |
How much does 68 Tons of coal cost as compared to buying a new system?
ReplyDeleteJust a thought, but I think they should give that coal ash to residents that could use it if they get hung up in the winter. Just my opinion.
ReplyDeleteEnvironmental laws prohibit the County from disposing of the coal ash and waste other than disposal through a landfill.
ReplyDeleteDo they still have to dump the coal in the parking area behind the courthouse and shovel it down a chute like I did 60 years ago? Hardest days work I ever did in my life...
ReplyDeleteyes, they still dump the coal in the parking area and shovel it down the same chute
ReplyDelete