HVAC Replacement Questions

16 years ago

I need some professional guidance on a HVAC replacement system. Here are the home basics. Location, Tennessee, 2500 total sq ft, Ranch w/ 700 sq ft basement room. The basement has no return line. Current unit is 3 ton and is 13 yrs old and still functions properly. I have got a few quotes and need to separate the wheat from the chaff.

1. Do I really need a 4 ton unit?

2. Will a 3.5 ton work as well as a 4 ton?

3. Will there be any practical difference between a 13, 16 SEER and 18 SEER units?

4. I is a 3 ton unit with a 18 or higher SEER a viable option?

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Comments (3)

tigerdunes
16 years ago
yooper

I assume you are speaking about a heat pump system.

if so,these are my minimum specs for a new HP system. both outside and inside units should be replaced to have a properly matched system.

15 SEER, 12.5+ EER, 9 HSPF
best matching VS air handler
full BTUs in both cooling and heating for your rated size
R-410a refrigerant(same as Puron)
scroll compressor preferred
electronic demand defrost preferred
thermostat with "dehumidify on demand" feature
staged backup heat strips
new and correctly sized refrigerant lineset

you want a thorough inspection of your ductwork system. size, overall condition, supply and return lines, insulation qualities, leak test, etc.

any hot/cold spot issues in your home should be addressed.

I would only use authorized dealers for the various brands that provide quotes. see mfg websites.

In your situation, I would ask for and insist upon a written load calculation for correct sizing. That's is the professional method for sizing and the only way you will really know whether you need a three, 3 1/2, or 4 ton system. That is your first step and if you go up in size,dealer will need to verify if your ductwork system needs updating. And assuming your ductwork has reasonable accessibility, dealer should make an assessment as to modifications both supply and return to basement area.

IMO
yooper_in_tn
Original Author
16 years ago
tigerdunes, Thanks!
The estimates I received weren't for a heat pump system and they included increasing the size of the ductwork. I currently have a split system with gas and the installers seem to think that we wouldn't be satisfied with a heat pump, because we are used to gas heat. I have a couple of follow-up questions.
1. How much more efficient are the heat pumps than a standard compressor in AC operation?
2. Is the Hybrid dual fuel systems technology proven to be reliable?
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tigerdunes
16 years ago
yooper

Since nat gas is available, I would definitely go dual fuel. Yes the hybrid systems have been around many years and are very reliable.

If your home has reasonable building and insulation qualities, dual fuel is the way to go. You can leveredge those reasonable electric rates vs nat gas.

IMO
Good Luck!