HVAC Options-Recommendations?

MIMaguire · 06-02-2008, 05:26 PM

HVAC Question: Adding finished space in what was originally the attic, the central HVAC unit is in the attic (2 ton unit) and feeds the rooms below it. I'm looking at cooling this space only as we live in Jacksonville, FL and my heating needs are modest at best.

My three options as I see them:

1. Install 1-2 Window box AC units, 30 amp service is prewired from date of construction. Would prefer not to put in these window box units for astetics (looks).

2. Modify approach #1 with these Portable AC units, which still need a window to vent (as I understand it).

3. Speak with a HVAC contractor to see if he can modify the existing system and allow this area to be cooled only when needed. Current system is wired with a thermostat for the first floor area, total space it currently heats and cools is about 1200 SF on the first floor.

Attic is now well insulated, R-30 insulation in roof. Looking at cooling approximately 1200 SF in the attic area.

1. Welcome ideas as to most cost effective approach, both short and long term given cooling costs.
2. Welcome feedback on the Portable AC units, have not been able to find good recommendations on those. Consumer reports only rates traditional window box units, given what I found on their website.
3. Would welcome any ideas-

Thanks in advance-

pcampbell · 06-02-2008, 06:53 PM

Do you have room to run duct work up there? What is the space used for?

MIMaguire · 06-03-2008, 03:15 PM

Yes, there is roof for duct work along a potential knee-wall. Space was attic, now will be used for a game room with a pool table, etc.

wirenut1110 · 06-03-2008, 07:26 PM

I would suggest a "package" unit. Somewhat like a window unit but mounts in the wall and a little less tacky. I'd be apprehensive about tapping into existing system without a load calculation (you may lessen the efficiency in the whole house. Just my suggestion.

MIMaguire · 06-04-2008, 01:47 PM

Thanks, I understand your comment.

MIMaguire · 06-04-2008, 01:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wirenut1110

I would suggest a "package" unit. Somewhat like a window unit but mounts in the wall and a little less tacky. I'd be apprehensive about tapping into existing system without a load calculation (you may lessen the efficiency in the whole house. Just my suggestion.

I'm assuming you mean one of these portable AC units that vents through the window vs a window box unit..........correct?

wirenut1110 · 06-04-2008, 03:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MIMaguire

I'm assuming you mean one of these portable AC units that vents through the window vs a window box unit..........correct?

No, it's more like a unit that you'll see in a motel room. Come in different styles, and it's permanenly mounted "through" the wall. Won't look as tacky as something hanging out of a window.

MIMaguire · 06-04-2008, 03:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wirenut1110

No, it's more like a unit that you'll see in a motel room. Come in different styles, and it's permanenly mounted "through" the wall. Won't look as tacky as something hanging out of a window.

Got it, any recommendations on manufacturer's or sources?

wirenut1110 · 06-04-2008, 04:43 PM

I would just do a yellowpage.com search or google for package hvac units and get some ideas and pricing from there. I'm not sure if you're wanting to install this yourself but if you're not then any local hvac contractor would be able to supply these.

**Termite** · 06-04-2008, 05:22 PM

Do a google search for "PTAC" units. Might be a good option for this application.

jerryh3 · 06-04-2008, 07:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wirenut1110

No, it's more like a unit that you'll see in a motel room. Come in different styles, and it's permanenly mounted "through" the wall. Won't look as tacky as something hanging out of a window.

A mini-split?
http://www.mrslim.com/

MIMaguire · 06-06-2008, 08:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jerryh3

A mini-split?
http://www.mrslim.com/

Thanks, looks likethis solution should work best.

MIMaguire · 06-06-2008, 08:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thekctermite

Do a google search for "PTAC" units. Might be a good option for this application.

Found them on the internet, I've met with an HVAC contractor to get a quote. Thanks

pcampbell · 06-06-2008, 09:10 AM

How do you tell how many "Tons" your system is, and what sort of sq footage it can support?

MIMaguire · 06-06-2008, 09:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pcampbell

How do you tell how many "Tons" your system is, and what sort of sq footage it can support?

I believe it is a BTU calculation based on your region of the country and the SF calculations. Most HVAC websites have these tools. Not an expert on the Tonnage for the system but I am sure its a BTU reference.