[Gdemoman]

Hello all, I'm just wondering about a price quote that I received regarding a new hvac system. The price given to me was for $7000 for a trane XR-13 3ton A/C unit (with the new refrigerant the r410a not the r22)and an XR-90 120,000 BTU furnace along with all duct work, dampers for a 2 zone system. (basement and 1st floor) The units are to be installed on a rough finish (the house is currently gutted and is being framed) so it is as a new construction. I just want to know if these units are efficient and durable or if I should consider a trane xl90 xl14i or similar combination. I would like something that will keep my family cool in summer and warm in winter (the approx. sq. ft. of the house is 1200 1st floor, 1000 bsment) and need some advice. Any help would be appreciated...

[hvac1000]

At 120,000 BTU your furnace is way oversized unless your house is made of glass. I would get 2 more estimates and do not tell the other estimaters anything about your other estimate.

[Gdemoman]

I did get a 2nd quote, was told to go with 2 separate systems if I wanted a 2 zone. The cost for carrier units, 2ton for bsmnt, 4 ton to feed 1st floor was 12,500.00!! I'm not a brain surgeon but I don't see the need to go with 2 units for such a small house. (about 2200 sq. ft total) Can someone please advise? Do I need 2 units? Explain please. Is the trane set up good enough (xr90, xr13) or would I be any better off with a trane xl90, xl14? Help please...

[hvac1000]

Can you post your building plans?

Basements usually do not count on heat or cool for a single story building. You do not have a true two story house. You have a one story and a finished basement.
What has your building contractor said about this?
What did the original engineer drawing show?
2 ton for basement good for 1200 sq ft ((rule of thumb))
4 ton for house good for 2400 sq ft ((rule of thumb))
According to this they are selling WAY oversize units!
You do not want oversize units it will just get cold and clammy. Very bad feeling in a house like that. (uncomfortable))
Were do you live? (state).
If you have not had a HVAC engineer do plans now is the time. There is a lot more to HVAC than slapping in units and duct and hope it works. Once it is done it costs 3X more to tear out and fix.

[Gdemoman]

Here are the plans for the house (in .pdf format). I live in northern New Jersey. Now, as you can see from the plans, the house isn't really that big. I completely understand your warning about making sure I get the HVAC done right the first time and am petrified of having to tear out a failed experiment only top have it redone after the house is finished. I also don't really want to get an HVAC engineer involved as I don't think it is really necessary for a house this small and frankly... probably can't afford it. Still, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[coolmen]

hvac1000 is correct on getting a load calculation performed. Rule of thumb now adays does not cut it. My company is in morris county area and would be willing to give you a full load calculation and other alternatives if you wish. CJ MECHANCAL OF NORTH JERSEY
973 541 4840
Regards,
CJ