Central AC wire sizing
peterbu
14 years ago
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petey_racer
14 years agojoefixit2
14 years agoRelated Discussions
Review quote for central AC replacement
Comments (36)Alright....in the middle of the change out. Air handler (Trane Tam7) and condenser (xl15i - 4 ton) is installed and now they are working on the duct work. Turns out main duct was internally insulated with a 1" fiberglass duct liner. Their plan is to keep this because it was done well and in good shape and then use 3" fiberglass duct wrap. Installer said it should give around an R11. Any reason to question whether or not internal insulation should be removed?...See MoreAppreciate thoughts on Carrier AC proposal for central air in MA
Comments (13)Thanks Tiger and Mike Do you mean that this: 3 ton,up to 16 SEER, Puron, Performance Series, Condenser Model # 24ABC636A003 Is not a Performance model but actually a Comfort one? Do you recommend the performance over the comfort? I see your listed models above are for the comfort series. As for the second part: 3 ton, Deluxe Fixed Fan Coil with Puron, Comfort Series, Model # FX4DNF037000 Is this where I should be looking at getting a variable speed to decrease noise? This will be the unit in the attic - correct? As for returns, there will be a single return at the top of the stairs on the second floor. The layout is very open downstairs and the expectation is that warm moist air would easily rise up there and be returned. Haven't heard anything on the filtration. Good point on labor warranty. Plan to be here 20+ years. Will inquire. Thanks again. Really appreciate it (as you can tell, totally clueless on this). E...See MoreCentral AC vs Window AC? help me choose
Comments (4)Portables are not very efficient, especially if you get one-hose models. If going with window units choose carefully. Choose those with a mode that allows the fan to cycle off when the compressor is not running. They are better at dehumidifying. This is often called something like "econo mode" for some stupid reason. A low fan speed is also good for dehumidifying. What kind of heat do you have, ducts? Consider a third option that you did not mention, (heat pump) mini splits. They are more efficient than window units (and quieter) and central systems (no duct losses and higher efficiency ratings are available). Depending on the type of construction, you could install two or three mini splits for the price of the central addition. Honestly, If I only needed it for a few days I would go with window units unless I had a lot of money to burn,...See MoreNeed help choosing central heat/AC system
Comments (9)If you can get a free connection to gas then that should be your fuel for heating. In most parts of the country it is cheaper to heat with gas than a heat pump. If you are curious post your electric and gas rates and we can do some comparisons on heating costs. The first quote does not make sense. If you are going with a gas furnace, then you should not need a new electrical panel. But you will need to run a 120v 15amp line to the attic, but it should not cost $1565. The gas furnace takes the place of the air handler. A gas furnace costs about the same as the equivalent model air handler. But you will have to run a gas line to the attic. So I don't understand why you need to pay an additional $2500 for the gas option. The Bryant quote has incomplete model numbers. The complete number would indicate the size. You also have no model number for the coil, or what filter will be provided. The Rheem quote seems more reasonable. It is difficult to judge how much of the quote is going towards installing duct work. Is the duct work insulated and if so how much insulation. Flexible duct work should be R6 or R8 rated unless your attic is insulated. Any change the equipment and duct work could be installed in the basement? It would be much better than installing in the attic. The sizes in the Rheem quote seem reasonable. It would be best if a load calculation were performed to confirm the sizes since you have no history other than radiant heating. I am glad to see that the Rheem contractor is proposing a 96% efficiency furnace for the attic. Do you go below freezing in the winter? If so heat tape will need to be installed so the condensate does not freeze. The Rheem quote needs the coil model and filter. I suggest getting a 4 inch media filter....See Morewayne440
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