Good morning, Kim,
That would be a resounding no. Here are a few reasons,
Combustion Pollutants: Gas furnaces can leak or emit nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and unburned hydrocarbons, which chemically degrade paper, canvas, and pigments. [1, 2]
Moisture Fluctuations: Traditional gas heating can cause rapid relative humidity drops during activation, risking wood cracking and canvas tension tears.
Vibration and Noise: Mechanical rumbling from older gas-fired equipment transfers micro-vibrations through structural walls, risking fragile sculptures or plaster works.
Electric systems are much better alternative,
Electrification: Institutions increasingly replace gas infrastructure with precise, all-electric systems or ground source heat pumps.
Advanced Filtration: Multi-stage chemical and particulate filters scrub trace atmospheric gases before air reaches the gallery.
Microclimates: Sealed display cases utilize passive dampeners to decouple local artifact security from general building mechanical failures
We use an electric controlled cooling tower system at the Bechtler Museum. That system is combined with a humidification system. Both systems are computer controlled and monitored 24/7. Having the 2 systems allows a consistent temperature and humidity to maintained. Our climates may be slightly different but the extremes have the same affect on our buildings. Keep in mind your contractor is probably not aware of collection care needs.
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Claude Harding
Security and Facilities Manager
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
Charlotte NC
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