View Full Version : Do I need one or two stage heat pump?
stevedolce
May 2, 2009, 05:43 AM
I need to replace the heat pump on the home we're purchasing..
There's about a $1500 difference between a one & two stage system..
Both units have high SEER ratings.
It's a 2 floor colonial style(appx 3000SQ FT) with basement..
1)is the 2 stage system overkill?
2)am I asking for trouble with a more complicated system?
Thanks
Steve:confused:
Joshdta
May 2, 2009, 07:12 AM
If you have 3 floors and only 1 system I would recommend not getting a 2 stage unit as you will have temp deferances from the tow floors because the fan speed and the cooling out put will not be the same all the time.
stevedolce
May 2, 2009, 07:30 AM
What about being energy efficient? That was one if his selling points.
Joshdta
May 2, 2009, 08:59 AM
what seer units were you priced? Both 4 ton units? And was the 2 stage the only one with the variable speed indoor fan or both?
Missouri Bound
May 2, 2009, 05:53 PM
Most heat pumps are two stage... first stage compressor, second stage and aux heat strip heaters. Just where are you located, and does the winter weather require the 2nd stage? And I hope you are talking to a few HVAC contractors. Get at LEAST 3 opinions and quotes for this replacement.
Joshdta
May 2, 2009, 07:26 PM
Most heat pumps are two stage...first stage compressor, second stage and aux heat strip heaters. Just where are you located, and does the winter weather require the 2nd stage? And I hope you are talking to a few HVAC contractors. Get at LEAST 3 opinions and quotes for this replacement.
He is not talking about aux heat back up. He is talking about a 2 stage compressor on the out door unit.
T-Top
May 2, 2009, 08:34 PM
If you can afford it at this time, I would roll with the two speed compressor. They have been in use for a long time and are trust worthy and efficient. BUT ALLWAYS GET THE TEN YEARS PARTS AND LABOR WARRANTY. One service call plus parts on the system will cost you more than what you pay for extended warranty.