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mini or small duct AC systems

kray's picture

mini or small duct AC systems (post #192376)

kray on Thu, 08/12/2010 - 11:48
in

Alright, we seem to be having one of the hottest, wettest summers on record in MN, and I am ready to consider ditching window air conditioners and retrofit a small duct system. Can anyone tell what the current state of the art is with these systems? Upsides? Downsides? What are the important questions to ask?

Thanks

-A +A

BIL (post #192376, reply #1 of 1)

by JTC1 in reply to kray [original] on Thu, 08/12/2010 - 13:02

Bil and SIL had a High Velocity a/c system installed in their 1820 vintage historical home (steam radiator heat).

Upside: works well; cools nicely; quiet; small, unobtrusive vents; minimal destruction to install.

Downside: their home required 2 air handlers - one in basement, one in attic and 2 condenser units outside, therefore the project was expensive; improperly run ducting will whistle (their's does not) - apparently you need lots of bends and seemingly "excess" ducting to be quiet.  With 2 handlers and 2 condensors their house required an electrical sub-panel to provide the needed space (8 poles, so of course we put in a 16 pole box.....), had enough amps, just not enough available poles.

You do not want to be the Guinea pig for an HVAC contractor with no or limited experience with these types of systems - ask for references and to see / listen to the guy's work before signing on.  BIL and SIL saw / heard some pretty bad installations from some local big name HVAC contractors before they found their installer - he was mid sized and mid priced, but he knew what he was doing, unlike some of his bigger named competition.

'Bout all I know about that!

Jim

Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.