Ductwork A/C questions

15 years ago

I am installing a 3 ton split system and have received @ 3-4 quotes from Carrier & Lennox dealers for the install. I did my research on the SEER and all the other ratings and I am looking for a good two stage condensor unit w/ variable speed blower....Since I live on a barrier island,outside of Charleston SC, I need to by a good middle of the road system unit as the salt air ruins these units in under 12 years, and the payback ratio for a top of the line system would not be there. I am satisfied with the dealer's quotes but I have a problem as follows: Only one dealer really pushed buying new ductwork and claimed that the new system would not work as well or could not guarantee any efficiencies... Actually this same salesperson quoted all the products to me...air purifiers, Uv LIghts etc...and insisted that I buy them to have the better system. Here's the problem, I have a very low peak roof and most of this stuff wouldn't fit or be very hard to install- the salesman also told me that after year one, I could discontinue using the "in line air purifie" etc...if I didn't like it. He told me that I need to but it to receive all the company rebates. I don't have animals that make the air less than pure and the attic is well insulated with no mold nor mildew etc...Also the ductwork is less then 18 years old and prior to the Heat pump system needing replacement, I was pretty comfortable in my home using existing ductwork. I will be buying the air handler that goes upstairs and the outside unit, creating the heat pump split system, and I am moving away from Heil Mfr. to a Carrier or Lennox only because of the installers in my area, I'm not knocking their product. Do I absolutely need new ductwork as well? I purchased my parents home from my brother's when My Mom Passes away recently,and now I am renovating quite a bit, as time was spent on nursing aging parents instead of home maintenance--so, lots to do with not so much funds being tight from medical bills. I am starting renovations with a new A/C system and storm doors etc.. Could really use your assistance here from the experts in the field on the ductwork. I don't have any problems in the attic such as animals in the attic creating holes in the ductwork or damaging it and from what I can see, the ductwork looks okay as it is all sealed etc...I do like the prices structure for the rest of this companies quote- after I remove all the extras, but I am thinking more that he was just trying to sell me everyting in his book. Can you assist with some suggestions. I don't want to get in over my head. also I am considering moving the air register from the side of the hallway to the ceiling of the hallway as this gives me back a large cabinet. All companies quoting told me they can do this- but does it help the air flow, or any other advantages that anyone can think of? Thanks Ladies and Gents!

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Comments (4)

ryanhughes
15 years ago
If the ductwork is properly sized, and kept you comfortable in the past, it's probably in decent shape. You'll want to make sure it's well sealed and insulated, and also has plenty of return air.

Since you're in a salt water environment, I highly recommend you purchase one of Trane's heat pumps. They have the best coils for this environment. Also, their registered warranty (within 60 days of purchase) is 10 years. If you're within 1 mile of the seacoast, you'll need their required salt water kit, though. If not Trane and you liked the Lennox dealer, I'd go Lennox.

If you're looking at the federal tax credit, not all heat pumps qualify despite what the manufacturer advertises. Please post the model numbers you've been given--indoor and outdoor--if you have them.
climateboy
15 years ago
As far as your ductwork, is it metal or fiberglass? You can't clean fiberglass. Trane and American standard are good units but for the extra price and the fact that you are looking to save money, it might be a great Idea to check with a Local NuTone, Tappan, or Westinghouse Dealer. These are Nordyne produts. You just might be able to get yourself a 16 seer Split heat pump with a Var speed blower motor on the indoor unit, and a 2 stage compressor on the outdoor heatpump. Since this system would qualify for the tax credit you would get $1500.00 off, or look at it like this. You would get free ductwork. All this for what you will most likely pay just for the Trane system. As far as warranty, Trane nor Carrier can touch the Nordyne products warranty If you go with the Nordyne you will get 10 years all parts and 10 year quality Pledge. If the compressor fails for any reason within 10 years, you don't just get a new compressor you get the entire outdoor unit along with labor allowance to replace it. Also the outdoor fan motor on the nordyne never has to be oiled. Trane just gives you a new compressor. Better warranty, more for your money, less maintenance. One more thing you don't need a seacoast kit for the Nordyne product. www.nutonehvac.com
check out that website and you can see pics of the units.
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veesubotee
15 years ago
"I was pretty comfortable in my home using existing ductwork. "

As Ryan said, "If the ductwork is properly sized, and kept you comfortable in the past, it's probably in decent shape".

Are you replacing a 3 ton with a 3 ton? If so, no problem. It sounds like the contractor is looking to pad the quote. Is he proposing drastic changes to your duct system? If so, he should detail them on the quote.

V
udarrell_2007
15 years ago
Charleston SC, summer design DB92-F WB78-F 54%RH, higher than most.

I didn't see the sq footage, but with that humidity level it is critical to have a tight home. Blower-Door test would be great.

After all the retro work is done, a manual J should be done

"It is very important Not to oversize the Heat pump," or U will have humidity problems, U need long run-time cycles.

Study the linked page below & the one for customers up near the top. -udarrell

Here is a link that might be useful: AC & Ductwork Sizing