another reasonable HVAC estimate?

16 years ago

I have an 18-yr. old HVAC system that needs replacement. Currently, for my two-story 2800 sq. ft home in NC, I have two units for both my first and second floors. To replace my old existing HVAC system, my contractor has recommended the following set-up for each floor:

American Standard 2-ton 16 SEER Heat Pump

Air Handler variable speed

New refrigerant line set, pad, drain pan, thermostat, a new return duct, condensate piping, removal and disposal of old systerm, 10-year parts and labor warrantee, etc. etc...

First, what is the difference between 14, 15 and 16 SEER units, which the contractor is representing to me in terms of "good, better and best" and priced accordingly? What does SEER even mean?

Second, what should I reasonably expect to pay? I am somewhat confident of my contractor's reliability and competence generally.

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Comments (4)

tigerdunes
16 years ago
Waynejohn

First of all, AmStd make great heat pumps.

I assume nat gas is not available.

Based on your area/climate, HPs with a var speed air handler are a great choice. For two systems, there should be a price differential of around a $1000 between the sgl stg Heritage 15 and the two stg Heritage 16.

For two systems, I would expect pricing to be $12,500 to $15,000 depending on mdl selected.

My advice is to shop around.

Insist on a ManJ heat/cool load calculation for correctly sizing new HVAC-get it in writing for the whole house and broken out by floor. Also, have your ductwork thoroughly inspected as to overall condition, size of runs, supply/returns, leakage test,insulation qualities, etc. Any hot/cold spots in your home should be addressed.

BTW, SEER is the operating efficiency rating for cooling and HSPF is the operating eff rating for heating. Translated the higher rating, the less electricity consumed.

IMO
Good Luck!
waynejohn
Original Author
16 years ago
Thank you so very much for your input. I am a clueless old dude!

My contrator has not given me anything written regarding a Manual J calculation. Why should I get this in writing and is such a process something for which the contractor should do without a fee?

Really, thanks again!
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davidandkasie
16 years ago
yes you want the manual j in writing. if they just guess and stick a 2 ton in when you only need 1 ton, then you will have humidity and short cycling issues. if you really need a 3 ton on one floor, and go with a 2 ton, you will never cool OR heat it properly with a HP.

they should not charge you for this, if they say they will call someone else. no one in my area charges to run a man j to quote a sale. i could live with a 50 dollar or so charge just for their time, but it SHOULD be free.
garyg
16 years ago
John:

14 and 15 SEER systems use one single-stage compressor, as do most heat pump or central air systems in use today. A 16 SEER system uses a dual-stage compressor, meaning that the compressor runs on the first (low) stage initially and then steps up to the second stage if it cannot handle the heating/cooling load running on the first stage.

Best to you.

another reasonable HVAC estimate?

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tigerdunes

waynejohn
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another reasonable HVAC estimate?

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tigerdunes

waynejohnOriginal Author

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waynejohn
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