Sure, one way is to install the air handler in the basement and run the ducts upward through closets or your own passageways in corners, etc.

The easiest and most cost effective ways to add a/c to an old home without duct work would be:

1. Ductless mini split a/c or heat pump.
2. High velocity system (very important to have a good installer)

Thanks very much for the feedback. Based on your recommendations, I've looked into high velocity and I think that may be the solution for us.

Thanks so much!

Just a little info about high velocity and ac systems in general. High velocity systems are very expensive, some consider them quite noisy. Servicewise you are usually locked into using one company as most service providers do not stock hvac parts, also these units are not numerous enough for generic makers to supply parts, many times this can cause a long wait for a repair. I suggest you get estimates on having both type systems installed. As the last post by homeowner plus states, a good installer is a must. Check and find how many companies in your area service the hv brand you select, I.ll be surprised if you find more than 1. Next any ac unit consists of a great mant electrical and mechanical parts, and despite any advertising hype to the contrary, all will need service at one time or another. On any type selected get the warranty terms spelled out in writing, do they include trip and labor fees? Most ac makers provide a least a 5 year parts warranty, some longer. Labor is a different matter, maany consumers get a nast finiancial shock when they are hit with a hefty labor and trip fee bill for replacement of a warranty covered part. Remember for aby unit no matter than brand or type, it must be properly sized and installed to provide good and efficient service. Check out any one you select as thoroughly as possible, get names of a few previous customers find their level of satisfaction. Don,t be influenced by big yellow page ads. Some companies using this venue are ok, others are hacks. Try to select someone that has been around a reasonable amount of time. Good luck Iggie

To the OP, all of the above from iggie is true but I don't know what part of the country he/she is from but around here there are quite a few highly trained pros that are more than qualified to install these systems. And like with any system install, the quality of the install will stay with the system for the rest of its life.

To the OP, all of the above from iggie is true but I don't know what part of the country he/she is from but around here there are quite a few highly trained pros that are more than qualified to install these systems. And like with any system install, the quality of the install will stay with the system for the rest of its life.

Yea High Velocity systesm like Spacepak or Unico are expensive but get the job done.

Just get 3 big window units, Inexpensive and also provides zoning.

i have a all elect house. air handler can i put in attic?
or basement? witch i s best. if basement can i add gas heating unt. i have gas ran to house just dont use yet.

Just got a quote for UNICO, 2300 sq ft house, 4 br, center hall colonial, two air handling units, one in attic one in basement for $7990. Not too bad. Getting other quotes thought.

For a 1900 sq ft cape, we got a price of $13,000 for a 2.5 ton SpacePak A/C with a Trane compressor. It was estimated that there would be about 15 vents to cool both the first & second floors.

I'm waiting on the price for the Unico, but this installer tells me that I need 3 tons, and a MINIMUM of 20 vents, as recommended by the manufacturer.

The compressor will go outside, the SpacePak/Unico unit will be in the attic.

I see from the posts that some folks may have installed these units in the last couple of years.

Could any of you please note the Pros and Cons after living with it for a couple of hot seasons?

soapstone- I can not believe that price. I think the equipment and materials would run around that price. That is before labor. Make sure you get everything in writing and ask questions. If you get a decent install for that price you would be extremely fortunate.

I have installed a number of Unico systems.
The blower wheel and motor are about the only special portions. The controls are run of the mill. The condenser is the same (I like Ruud).
Most problems are with the condenser anyway.
The parts are more expensive, but the savings on repairs to walls and ceiling (especially if you have plaster) often more than makes up for the air handler and duct costs.