[new cool guy]

I am looking to add an AC systems to my home. I have found a company that appears to be compentent and reputable.

I am considering the following.

A Rheem 2.0 ton/ 13.0 SEER unit with a Rheem air handler.

I have the following options:

a. Upgrade to Rheen 14.0 SEER unit

b. Upgrade to Trane 13.0 SEER unit with Variable Speed Air Handler

c. Upgrade with Electronic Air Cleaners

Are these options I should consider, or are we splitting hairs over ratings and brands?

Anyone that has any thoughts on why I would want to upgrade (or not upgrade), I would appreciate the guidance.

Thanks!

 

[sall]

13 seer with variable speed blower should make a 14 seer (if properly sized and installed).

 

[hvac hero]

The only option you mentioned that I think is worthwhile is the electronic air cleaner. I wouldnt pay any extra for a Trane over a Rheem. & I wouldnt pay much more to make it a 14 seer. It'll probably take a while to recoop your money if ya do.

 

[amickracing]

I'm not so sure about the electronic air cleaner. Do some research in the IAQ section of this site before you decide either way. Not saying they are bad, but just like everything they have downsides.

Personally I'd go with the variable speed air handler, especially if you live in an area of higher humidity. Might cost a bit more upfront, but it'll almost surely beat the other style in comfort in a major way.

 

[Steve Wiggins]

Why are you talking about cars without considering the engine?

As for whether to upgrade or not upgrade depends on how long you plan on living there, what noise level you expect, and what size of particles you wish to filter out for allergy reasons.

I have seen many upgrades on air filters and nothing is sealed so when the filter gets dirty it just sucks in dirt & air around it.

Man you don't say where you live, didn't fill out profile, don't say what kind of heat, gas or elect, don't say where the indoor equipment is located etc.... Kinda upsetting me a little bit.

[Edited by Steve Wiggins on 12-21-2005 at 09:10 AM]

 

[neophytes serendipity]

Variable speed. Brands are meaningless- it is the installation.

If you use the AC a lot, get the most efficient one you can afford.

Unlike electronic air cleaners, plain old media ones have nothing to break.

That said, the Aprilaire 5000 offers the best of both worlds.

 

[dash]

I am looking to add an AC systems to my home. I have found a company that appears to be compentent and reputable.

I am considering the following.

A Rheem 2.0 ton/ 13.0 SEER unit with a Rheem air handler.

I have the following options:

a. Upgrade to Rheen 14.0 SEER unit

b. Upgrade to Trane 13.0 SEER unit with Variable Speed Air Handler

c. Upgrade with Electronic Air Cleaners

Are these options I should consider, or are we splitting hairs over ratings and brands?

Anyone that has any thoughts on why I would want to upgrade (or not upgrade), I would appreciate the guidance.

Thanks!

Adding A/C to what,?Gas Furnace??Or hydronic heat??

City and State?,location has a lot to do with SEER and Equipment selection.

 

[new cool guy]

A little more information that was requested:

Location is New Brunswick, New Jersey. Heating is an oil heater with baseboards. I am looking at a 2 zone system with one in the attic and a second in the basement to cool a 2 story home. There is no existing ductwork, so that will be part of this project.

Thanks for the responses so far. This site is so helpful in understanding the equipment and choices.

 

[t527ed]

14 SEER will qualify for better rebates in nj. i would do media filters over electronic.