Welcome to HVAC-TALK.

I moved your thread to the "AOP Residential HVAC and Refrigeration (Beenthere Zone)" forum as this is the only forum where homeowners can ask non-technical HVAC/Refrigeration questions, and seek advice.

Please take note of this new location.

 

Hey all, I'm currently designing a home (almost done with structural engineering) in Florida and need some advice. I'd like to hang the air handler from the ceiling, inside conditioned space and build a dog house around it. I was wondering for horizontal setup:

1. Are there any options on how to connect the supply/return? Blower positioned to face up? Using side and top inlets?

Either my supply or return with have to make a 180° turn (I'll try to be gentle). I've seen return plenums split and run through the side and bottom for upflows. I like the idea of reduced static pressure, plus running 2 filters (4-5", one for side intake, another for bottom, not inline) would require less swapping out.

2. How much space would a technician want to see around the unit? Any space needed on bottom?

Space is fairly limited, but I figure I can get about 15" on each side and maybe 12-18" vertically accounting for a 24" tall unit. I would like it to be reasonably easy to install/ service.

Any advice is appreciated.

Manual “J” Report?
Manual “D” Report?

 

You’re designing a house you don’t know what the minimal clearances are for electrical and mechanical?

 

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I can see 3++ issues with your plan and suggest you bring in a local pro for consultation.
..

 

I'll be working with an hvac pro soon, but I have to submit for permitting very soon as impact fees are going up drastically in my area. Could you elaborate on potential problems?

 

I don't have any M reports as I'm still in the design phase and want to allot space for an air handler before plans get sealed.

 

Do you need a manual D report to see what size ductwork you need.
You need a manual J report to see what size equipment you need

 

Minimal clearance in florida is 3" all sides (not including bottom) and at least 12" wider then the unit. I'm not asking about code. I was asking what a tech would like to see to make servicing/ replacing not a pain in the rear. Not concerned with duct sizing atm. Just trying to see how I should build a mech closet/ see if I have any options for how to connect supply and returns.

 

Electric code is 36” minimum clearance!

If you want good work give us something to work with!

Make me work in a shoe box and YOU will pay in the end

 

And when a blower motor/blower wheel/evap coil/wash evap coil/plugged drain/soldering/brazing/TXV get looked at and worked on? Don't forget the Tech needs access and elbow room. How about the AHU control panel?

 

That never happens.
Like decking, they expect us to walk on 2 X 6’s and kneel on them.
Not going to happen.

 

Any thoughts about ASHRAE suggested filtered fresh air ventilation in 3-5 hours to suggested by FL code to purge indoor pollutants and provide make up oxygen needed by the occupants in modern air tight homes during calm winds. Also climates like Fl have high dew points 24 hours per day and occupants add moisture to the home 24/7. Your a/c when setup correctly removes the moisture during significant cooling cycles. Evenings and rainy days become humid while the a/c is not running much.

Modern healthy homes are now adding a small whole house dehumidifier with fresh filtered air option to maintain fresh air change during calm wind and maintain <50% RH during evenings and rainy days. This is your opportunity to put the icing on the cake.

Your thoughts.

REgards Teddy Bear