Stick to split systems. Use packaged only as a last resort. Consider mini-split.

I should probably add that we have a separate heating system that we're quite happy with (hot water radiators and relatively new boiler) so the ductwork will only carry A/C, and we won't need a heat pump.

How big is a standard air handling unit?

Air handlers are generally about the same size as furnaces, but a little taller, a little wider, and a little less deep (when upright). Mini-split units, which mount on the wall, are typically in the neighborhood of 30" wide by 12" high by 6" deep, and require no ductwork. LG makes one that holds a picture in a frame, maybe 2 x 2.

I like splits better because they are more efficient. But you might come out cheaper to go with the package unit. If you go back with a carrier your curb should match up and the ductwork should line up correctly.

Just replace that unit with another package rooftop. Considering the ductwork is pretty much inaccessible it's the most practical and least costly. If the new units dimensions, etc. don't match up with what is there now your contractor should check on an Adapt-a-curb.

Thanks, due to some major renovation plans virtually all the existing ductwork will have to come out anyway. As long as the split system is more efficient, I have no problem whatsoever going with that, even if it costs a bit more initially.

I disagree with a split system being more efficient. What could be more convenient then a system that has everything contained in one package? If installed properly a much quieter system, no refrigeration lines run between two points that might develop a leak eventually, no problem with oil return because of improperly installed and secured lines, no improper charge which could effect the operation, (and efficiency) of the system as well as the longevity of the compressor,(the tag tells you the "exact" amount of freon), no electrical problems associated with split systems like loss of low voltage between both components, much easier service because everything is all in one spot including the filter so most service calls would probably be completed in less time which equates to $$$$ savings for you. I can go on and on if you'd like. I wonder if the people who recommended a split over a package has ever even worked on a package system.
Oh yeah, one more advantage, if you've spent any time in this forum at all then you've no doubt read the many debates about small freon leaks in evaporator coils, the arguments about repair vs replace, and the outrageous prices quoted some poor people for a new coil. You'll never have that kind of problem. You may develop a problem somewhere down the road but the repair would be soooo much easier.

Yup, he's right. I could not access your picture when I first replied; didn't know it was a rooftop; assumed ground level unit.

Hey airsome, thought you were riding on into the sunset?

Yeah, just tying up a few loose ends and mending some fences before I go...

I don't understand what's nmeant by "packaged" - there's still an outdoor unit and a central unit that uses existing ducts, say?

I'm curious why the original poster isn't interested in a heat pump - by most accounts, they can heat more cheaply than any other source except geothermal....? I would think the relatively small extra investment would be worth it.

a package unit pjb999 is just like the name implies. It has the compressor, condenser and evaporator all in the same unit, or package. The duct work is installed first then the unit is lowered right in top of the ducting. You can even get them with gas or electric heat. They're more popular in light commercial applications but there is a place for them in the residential market too. As it gets colder out a heat pump looses its effectiveness. Below 30 degrees they require some sort of back up heat. Usually its electric heat but it can also be a fossil fuel system. If you live in an area where the temps stay below 30 for any length of time it is definately not the system to have. Besides even in some areas where they're used fairly regularly some people just can't get used to the considerably cooler air a heat pump discharges to heat a home.
By this explanation I think you can see that the extra cost, including operating, isn't really small.

JohnnieB- if you were to opt for a heat pump, provided your existing heating system's compatible, you don't need to replace it. The heat pump does the heating, extracting up to three times the heat for the energy expended if it were electric heat alone. from the outdoors.

The existing heat, now the supplementary, kicks in when the outside air can't provide enough heat to make it worthwhile, as I understand it, that's somewhere below freezing.

I fervently wish I had the money to put in a hybrid system now, my gas bill is quite large and our temps have been consistently close to freezing where I live- I suspect I'd be saving money, and there are subsidies available too in some places. I can probably keep my Bryant Plus-80 gas furnace, which is mid-efficiency, and see how much it gets used before I decide to replace it, or I might get a package deal with a high-efficiency furnace, and sell the old furnace or give it away.

Mr Hvac, I've heard of this 'cooler heat' business before, by that I guess you mean rather than the air coming out of the vents as warm as it does with fossil fuels, it's a few degrees cooler, however, in the end, the room temp ends up the same. If the fan runs longer whilst doing this, it will likely end up with better heat distribution throughout the house.

JohnnieB, I'm just suggesting you look ahead some - I don't know what the price difference is, but you will likely start saving money on your energy costs. As I understand it, electricity costs are rising a lot slower than fossil fuel costs, all it takes is some new international conflict, hiccup or burp and the price is up again. Electricity doesn't fluctuate like that, also, we have far, far more options for producing electricity than we have for replacing fossil fuels for essential use like vehicles etc. If there's another big 'oil shock' the first thing I'd think was restricted would be heating fuels.

That's just my thoughts on it.

Here is an article that you might find helpful on this subject: Air Conditioner Installation: Split vs Package.

There are different types of air conditioning systems why not try these guys they will show you what is needed. Pacific Coast Heating and Air

There are different types of air conditioning systems why not try these guys they will show you what is needed. Pacific Coast Heating and Air.

Well, this post is over 10 years old, so I'm guessing the guy figured it out long ago!