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ratpack38 · Jun 9, 2008, 01:32 PM

How can I tell if a TempStar air handler model NFCX3600C2 has a heat pump installed?

Thanks a million.

hvac1000 · Jun 9, 2008, 01:42 PM

The air handler will tell you nothing. It is the outside unit that is actually the heat pump.

ratpack38 · Jun 9, 2008, 02:04 PM

Originally Posted by hvac1000

The air handler will tell you nothing. It is the outside unit that is actually the heat pump.

Sorry, salespeople are confusing me good. One said the air handler had heat strips and another said it didn't. The outside unit does not have a heat pump and I am trying to find out who is right so I can decide to get a heat pump or not for compatibility :confused:

hvac1000 · Jun 9, 2008, 04:57 PM

You will need a heat strip no matter if it is a heat pump or not. Get the one with the heat strip. There is no compatibility issue.

leddfoot · Jun 9, 2008, 10:31 PM

The easiest way to tell if you have a heat pump is to take the cover off the outdoor condenser and see if you have 2 components (a round capacitor and rectangular switch). If that's the case its likely an air conditioner. If you see a circuit board its likely a heat pump. Both need heat strips, because they do not come "standard" with an air handler.

hvac1000 · Jun 10, 2008, 12:14 AM

What are you talking about leddfoot?
He was asking about the inside unit Air handler.

His second post reads as follows.

Sorry, salespeople are confusing me good. One said the air handler had heat strips and another said it didn't. The outside unit does not have a heat pump and I am trying to find out who is right so I can decide to get a heat pump or not for compatability

A round capacitor and relay (rectangular switch) can be on both type of units.

Lets no confuse this person!

leddfoot · Jun 10, 2008, 06:51 AM

Sorry 1000,

Don't want to confuse. You had already told him that the outside unit determines whether it is a heat pump or straight air. Also I said if you "take the cover off the outdoor condenser", so it should have been straightforward. Actually, I am still confused whether he is buying just an air handler or the whole system?

Anyway, 1000, please stay tuned because I am going to post the mother of all puzzlers soon and it will need the attention of someone of your calibre. I first have to get the superheat and subcooling before I ask it.

ratpack38 · Jun 10, 2008, 08:11 AM

Many Thanks or the info guys.

Obviously HVAC is not one of my strong areas. 3 different companies have been in to give bids and every one has provided different choices. One says my air handler is already set up with what it needs to be a full heat pump unit if I get a new outside unit with the capability. The current compressor is shot. Another guys says I need to change the inside and outside unit to have an air pump system. The third just wanted to sell a new outside unit. I would like to save electricity as I have been told the air pump system will do but am not interested in replacing the entire system, did that 5 years ago, if I do not need to. I live in Mid Georgia so the winters are not too severe but my bill easily doubles even with a very well insulated house.

Thank you all again.

Mike

hvac1000 · Jun 10, 2008, 12:42 PM

If your system is just under 5 years of age the compressor should still be under warranty.

Always remember it is not the brand of equipment it is the quality of the install that matters.