[mikegp]

Is there a system like a dual split that can connect to two normal air handlers to one condensor? My house has two 3 ton systems, one for each floor. I never run them both at the same time. I was wondering if they make systems that can just switch back and forth between the attic air handler and basement air handler. Seems redundant to have two full units when only one gets used at a time. When it comes time to replace them, I'd love to just purchase one.

I remember seeing something on This Old House about it, but can't remember if it was just a ductless system.

 

[roughneck]

You can with a ducted mini system, but it can be very expensive.

 

[mikegp]

Aren't mini splits connected to a different type of air handler? I'm picturing a condenser unit with two outlets connected to two different full sized air handlers. I've read about people adding a valve to divert the refrigerant to the correct unit. I wouldn't attempt that, but was hoping something was produced that would handle that internally. Sounds like a simple thing in my head, but I'm sure it's more complicated than what I'm picturing.

 

[yuri]

5 tons is the largest resi split system. No demand for a specialty unit like you are thinking about.

Trane, Lennox and Carrier etc sell 100s of millions of resi units and only cater to what there is a demand for.

Mini splits can have 2 compressors or they have a variable speed VFD variable frequency drive DC compressor which can slow down for one unit only.

 

[beenthere]

No such unit made like you describe, for residential use.

 

[supers05]

You could make something like what you want using solenoid valves and some careful planning and control work. It's not something that is readily available as a package using conventional style outdoor units.

However, Mitsubishi along with some others have regular style indoor air handlers. When used with a outdoor unit that can handle it, like the cityMulti or some of the mrSlim style units you can connect several indoor units to it.

This isn't cheap though. You definitely pay for the additional efficiency and r&d and name.

http://www.mitsubishicomfort.com/products/single-room/product-listing/multi-position-ducted

http://mitsubishielectric.ca/en/hvac/zuba-central/specifications.html


Cheers!

 

[beenthere]

You could make something like what you want using solenoid valves and some careful planning and control work. It's not something that is readily available as a package using conventional style outdoor units.

However, Mitsubishi along with some others have regular style indoor air handlers. When used with a outdoor unit that can handle it, like the cityMulti or some of the mrSlim style units you can connect several indoor units to it.

This isn't cheap though. You definitely pay for the additional efficiency and r&d and name.

http://www.mitsubishicomfort.com/products/single-room/product-listing/multi-position-ducted

http://mitsubishielectric.ca/en/hvac/zuba-central/specifications.html


Cheers!

He's better off just replacing both systems, then changing the type he has. Or making up his own, and having no warranty. Specially if he would want to sell it 5 years down the road.

 

[supers05]

That is why i mentioned the vrf stuff. At least that comes with warranty, and it's slightly more likely that they will find someone to work on it.

Personally, I'd leave it as 2 separate systems...I just give options.

Cheers!

 

[beenthere]

That is why i mentioned the vrf stuff. At least that comes with warranty, and it's slightly more likely that they will find someone to work on it.

Personally, I'd leave it as 2 separate systems...I just give options.

Cheers!

Giving options is good.

He's trying to save money on installation, a new VRF install would cost more then 2 new conventional split units, since he already has duct work.

 

[supers05]

Yes it wouldn't be cheaper. I agree. However, those indoor units are just air handlers and connect into existing ductwork. So if you're already replacing the systems for whatever reason, they are only moderately more expensive. (about 2x more around here...) So is it possible? Yes. Is it an economical solution? No. Would it be easy to find a tech that's willing to work on it? No, most techs I know would just change parts or the whole thing.

PS. Items on shows like that are never really cheap. It's usually paid placement anyways. (advertising)

Cheers!