choosing hvac for attic

clpikley

I am converting my attic and want to have an independent heating/cooling system. I have priced mini-splits and may go that route. Right now I'm looking at around 5000.00 for what I need. I want to look into one of the type of systems that are in hotels--they are floor model air conditioner/heaters. Can anybody share the pros/cons of this type of system. I am told it may be a little less expensive.

I know I want a ductless system and I do not want an air conditioner hanging out of a window.

The space is a split level. Once the knee walls are up the lower area is 24 x 9, most of which will be a huge closet. The upper level is 26 x9. I think I need a minimum of 22,000btu.

Suggestions?

kennzz05

for 5000 you could purchase a couple of thru the wall ptac units and still bank1500.00 or more and install is easier plus if you put one at each end of the space youll have more even cooling

beenthere

PTACs will have a part of them hanging out the wall.

9 x 26 = 234 sq ft.
22,000 is a bit oversized, unless you have no insulation.

yuri

The mini splits are probably going to be the QUIETEST solution which may be an important consideration also. I think they make them in a heat pump version also. That is a fairly small area and if you insulate it properly you will probably only need 12,000 BTU's or less depending on where you live/humidity load etc. Get 3 quotes from quality contractors and compare them. You can also use a 120 volt Honeywell baseboard heater on very cold days to help out.

kennzz05

he said he didnt want anything hanging out of a window didnt mention anything about a wall also said he was interested in the hotel type units so i assumed he meant ptac units also 24 feet long is along way for a ductless split to cool the other end just my 2 cents

pcampbell

Where are you located?

beenthere

24 feet sounds ong.

But when a mini is installed at about 6' off the floor.
The air doesn't stratify like most thing.

clpikley

I have a split level attic, one level is 9x 24 the top level is 9x26. These are very long spaces. Two hvac folks gave me quotes on a 22000 btu minisplit. I wanted to know about other options b/c I need to shave about 1500.00 off my total project budget. AFter reading the replies I did some research. Sounds to me like the PCAT may be the way to go because I can get one with an electric heating source (in addition ot the "heat pump" which is useless when it gets cold. Additionally I will have th much needed air conditioning for the space. NOw I need to find somewhere here in Richmond VA that sells them and get a turn key price. I'm thinking if I get a unit for each level that will accomodate both spaces and same me a little money.



My one reservation about the pcat is that from the exterior it is not cosmetically what I had hoped for. At least with the minisplit, the exterior component would be set up next to the existing heat pump.

Thanks for everyone's input.

As I proceed with my attic conversion I may reach out again.