A/C vs Heat pump, what should I get??

[Ryan_V]

My central air unit went out on thursday, bad timing I know. My question is, in getting quotes, A couple of plumbers and also friends of mine have suggested heat pumps. what are they, how much more would one cost than just replacing the A/C unit and what are some advantages and disadvantages of either one??? I understand I would use less LP in the winter for heating also. I'm new to this, and just want my house to be under 90 degrees!!! I've been sleeping in the camper, which has fully functional central air!!! Thanks in advance for the help!!

[18 inch Crappie]

Just replace the ac unit itself. Should cost under $800 you will not need a new A coil or the copper tubes. A new 13 seer is about $600 in the cities here and a couple hours lobor should get it done. Plus you may get a rebate from your electric company. here it is like $350 for a 13 seer

[Ryan_V]

would you have any names of good contractors that would do it?? I was quoted $2800 out here. If I had to pay someone a couple extra hours travel time, that would be worth my while. Also, If I don't replace my coil which is probably a 10 seer, and put a 13 seer unit outside, I'm still not running at 13 am I???

[Umma Gumma]

All components of a central air system must be matched properly. Depending on the age of your system and the manufacturer, you might need a new A-coil, and a new line set. I'm guessing you will, and it's not a bad idea to do it all at once, anyway.

How old is your system? Did your system show any decrease in performace last year, or did it just die all at once? Depending on the age of your unit, a 13-seer could save you approximately 30-50% in your cooling costs, if you properly size your new unit and match it with the right A-coil and line set. If you have to get a new unit, don't skimp out on the other parts, or you won't get the expected performace out of your system and will just spend more later on to correct the defeciency.

Also, I wouldn't pursue a heat pump if your furnace is relatively newer and is running well. There is still some debate on the cost-benefit analysis of heat pumps versus LP or natural gas heat, and I think fossil fuels are still ahead.

[nytelyter]

e-mail me [email protected] i will give you a number of a very reliable repair/installer.

[Ryan_V]

Umma: My system is probably as old as the house, about 10-12 years. didn't notice any less performance last year, just up and broke thursday. also, how far can I lay a line?? the guy I bought the place from put the last unit under the deck, which is a no-no and I want to move it to the other side of the house, about 30 feet away.

Nytel.. You've got mail

[Ryan_V]

ttt

[Umma Gumma]

30 feet, more than likely, won't be a problem. It depends on the size of your system, but anything 3 to 4 tons and under should be fine. One thing to consider is the number of 90 degree bends you'll have to make with the lineset. These are as critical to the efficiency of the system as the length of the line. Keep them as minimized as possible.

[Ryan_V]

UG, thanks for the info. talked to a plumber today that came in considerably less than others and think I'm going to give the job to him. there shouldn't need to be any more than 1 90 in the lineset, if even that. I just can't believe how much an air conditioner cost!!!