Quote:
Originally Posted by Baz
I ran into an AC guy yesterday and he said there was a new system just like the traditional one (outside condenser/inside air handler) but it was more like a mini-split.
I didn't find out anything more, unfortunately, and don't know what he meant by that. But being in the business maybe he's on to something (?)
That said - I've always like the concept of ductless-mini-split and may end up with something like that when the times comes. My Goodman is still going strong for now.....
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That is a variable speed drive HVAC system. Instead of one or two speeds, you have somewhere between 10 settings and an infinite number. The air handler also needs this speed control.
These have been around for a long time, but they are more expensive than "traditional" single speed units. They also require more labor to install and setup.
The positive: Much lower energy consumption, lower noise and typically are heatpumps.
The Negative: Cost
If you are replacing a DEAD Air Conditioner, you'll have to price the energy savings against the "cheapest" unit. My 17 SEER units were $2K more expensive than two 15 SEER single speed units. They have humidity control, which allows you to run a higher house temp than a single speed unit. And they are more efficient. The VSD units were about $10K (double) more than the 15 SEER units! Hard to justify from an energy savings standpoint when I pay $0.089/kWh.
My yearly electric costs this year should be around $2400. Half of that is Air Conditioning. Savings vs Single speed is around $200-300/year. They will pay for themselves in the life of the units (15-20 years). A 22 SEER VSP will save ~$600-750/year. Enough to pay for the difference, but initial cost is still $20K.
FYI - My Air Conditioner runs in every single month in the year! Yes, there are days in January and February where is will be sunny and 75-80F.