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Finalizing plans for new 2 story home with radiant floor heat throughout. What are my options for central AC. I’ve seen High or low velocity systems originating from the attic. My architect doesn’t seem to have an opinion, and most of the info I find is on specific AC products. I’m looking for general options, performance, cost, info, …. etc. Any advice/opinion would be welcome, thanks in advance,… John
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John,
Since it's new construction, obviously you can have anything that your budget allows.
Hi-velocity and RFH compliment each other well, Hi-velocity can run about 30% more than conventional. It is somewhat noisier, even with a judiciously installed system, but after a while it simply becomes background noise.
They both cool well, though hi-v, because of it's dynamics, does a better job at reducing humidity.
You can run your whole house from the attic with hi-v, if you are planning on doing so get an experienced hi-v HVAC pro in the loop now to properly plan for return ducting from your 1st floor up to the attic. The supply is cake to run, the return can be the bear.
Unico, Spacepak, and Hi-V ar ethe three main players, with Unico leading the marketing pack.
We've had several recent discussions...try a few searches using "Unico" or "Spacepak" as keywords, as they are the two most frequently compared.
Good luck with your search!
*You can also put A/C condensor coils, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, electronic air cleaners, you name it, into the the air exchanger system.
*Has anyone used the cassete units , ( one compresser outside and up to 4 room units inside) .It looks like a good idea. There is an ad in FHB every month from one company and I would think there are more mfg. around.
*John - Here's an opinion - conventional ductwork and a super-efficiency Carrier or Trane unit with a SEER of 13 or better. Buy a variable speed system if you can afford it. Check out the (more compact) sizes of the new Carrier non-CFC condenser/compressors (Trane has one coming out too), but be aware that service techs need to be certified to work on them.Stay cool -Jeff
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Finalizing plans for new 2 story home with radiant floor heat throughout. What are my options for central AC. I've seen High or low velocity systems originating from the attic. My architect doesn't seem to have an opinion, and most of the info I find is on specific AC products. I'm looking for general options, performance, cost, info, .... etc. Any advice/opinion would be welcome, thanks in advance,... John