goodman aepf vs air handler for heat pump

16 years ago

As I understand this variable-speed model/application, you set the constant system CFM using DIP switches and "trim" that base number (if necessary) by tripping either switch 7 (+10% CFM) or switch 8 (-15% CFM) as appropriate. Then the install manual says you cut jumper PJ6 on the control board to further reduce that airflow by 15% if you wish to use a humidistat (normally closed, trips on rise?) to reduce humidity in the cooling mode, which is exactly what I want to do. But then Goodman says you have to use an aftermarket combo thermostat/humidistat to control the unit and they make no recommendation. Anybody out there know what digital thermostats will work in this situation? Is it worth doing?

Comments (5)

garyg
16 years ago
I would post this question on HVAC-Talk.com.

The Honeywell Vision Pro IAQ is supposed to be the mother-of-all t-stats.

Best to you.
john_boylan
Original Author
16 years ago
garyg--I was hoping you had researched this while you were deciding what to do with your own Goodman system. The Honeywell has much more capability than I will ever need. I was thinking of something more along the lines of a ClimaTouch or Totaline. I'll try HVAC-Talk. Thanks for responding.
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garyg
16 years ago
John:

I went with the ARUF 3-speed air handler for simplicity and cheap replacement cost should the motor fail after the 10 year warranty period.

FYI: The 1" filter rack in Goodman's air handler is poorly designed. I have to literally rip out the old filter. To avoid my aggravation, get a separate media filter.

Good luck.
john_boylan
Original Author
16 years ago
garyg, I've read most of your posts on HVAC-Talk and several on here. That's the main reason I asked if the V.S. was worth doing. I have a dedicated return with its own filter box, so I won't be dealing with Goodman's rack.

Not getting much help on HVAC-Talk. I can't tell if it's because the pro members don't want to badmouth another product (e.g., Climatouch or Totaline) or if it's because of something I said. There is one member who has spoken favorably of Climatouch, but didn't mention anything about its compatibility with the Goodman V.S. blower controls. Guess it's time to email Climatouch directly and see what they have to say. Thanks for taking the time to provide some help.
garyg
16 years ago
John:

I read your post on HVAC-Talk. The only reply so far was by a regular member, not a pro. The pros don't have a problem recommending different t-stats, they don't like when someone (including one of their own) rags on a specific manufacturer, including Goodman. RoboTech is the resident Goodman expert on that site, maybe you can find his e-mail in his profile and e-mail him directly.

As far as the programmable t-stat, I'd highly recommend it. I don't have the v-s motor so I can't do "dehumidify on demand" but my house doesn't need it - 1700 sq ft split foyer with all metal ducts and great air flow. If I want lower humidity in the summer, I turn the temp down one degree - no big deal.

I have a Honeywell 7500 7-day from HD. I like the ability to program 4 different times/temps for 1 day. A few things I don't like are 1) no vacation hold, 2) doesn't track compressor run time (how can I yell at my wife if I don't know how long the compressor has run?), 3) have to hit a button to illuminate the back-light.

Take care.

goodman aepf vs air handler for heat pump

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goodman aepf vs air handler for heat pump

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