Question:
I'm looking to replace my heating and air units and I'm looking for
advice.
I live in metro Atlanta and have a 2-story home on a slab, approx. 2400
sq feet.
I have 2-zone heating and air, with the 2 furnaces in the attic. The
house and units (Trane) are over 21 years old, and although they still
works, I think it's time to upgrade to new efficient units.
I've been happy with the Trane units, so I'm leaning that way, but I'm
willing to take other suggestions.
But my first question is how much should I anticipate having to pay for
2 heating and 2 cooling units to be installed? I'd like to get general
range of what it would cost before I start getting estimates. I'm
looking for bottom-line for 2-zone
Second, any recomendations on the SEER rating that I should get for
metro Atlanta (East Cobb county)? I'd like to go with the highest
practical efficiency.
Third, should I opt for any of those "air-cleaning" add-ons, or are
they not effective?
Answer:
I would have a manual J Heat-Gain Heat-Loss done, and a thorough check
of the entire duct system and airflow.
Atlanta Georgia summer design conditions, 92-design dry bulb, 74-design
wet bulb.
I would not limit myself to one Brand Name, I would shop around some and
see how they compare, including their warranties.
Even if they charge a small fee, find out if at least one contractor
will check the ductwork and airflow prior to bidding the job.
If they don't get the airflow right along with everything else the new
system won't get its rated BTUH or the SEER Rating
The higher the SEER the more perfect everything has to be to achieve it,
and it may not be achievable!
Find out what the average annual hours of cooling are in the Atlanta area.
Do everything you can to reduce the Heat-Gain, Heat-Loss before doing
the manual J!
If you become knowledgeable enough you will save considerable money on
the equipment purchase, installation, and operating costs!
If it is a quality installation in every aspect it should operate
relatively trouble free with minimal downtime and repairs.
http://www.udarrell.com/air-conditioner-capacity-seer.html
