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Post by addamsruspipe on Jun 9, 2021 8:35:04 GMT -5
So my wife as asked be to look into getting air conditioning to replace our swamp cooler. Part of the reason being that one of my girls is a severe uncontrolled asthmatic and the AZ/NM wildfires have made the last week very difficult. Now I know nothing about air conditioning other then what I am finding online. Was wondering if anyone has personal experience and can give me some guidance on what to look for and stay away from. Thank you.  |
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Post by Ronv69 on Jun 9, 2021 10:22:12 GMT -5
So my wife as asked be to look into getting air conditioning to replace our swamp cooler. Part of the reason being that one of my girls is a severe uncontrolled asthmatic and the AZ/NM wildfires have made the last week very difficult. Now I know nothing about air conditioning other then what I am finding online. Was wondering if anyone has personal experience and can give me some guidance on what to look for and stay away from. Thank you. What are you looking for? Window unit, through the wall, mini split or central? I don't know how swamp coolers work except that they use evaporation and don't work in Texas. If you have central heat then adding AC to it is your best bet. |
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venturi
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Post by venturi on Jun 9, 2021 10:35:17 GMT -5
Swamp coolers won't work in high humidity - they are basically a pan of water that a fan blows over, so if the air is already moist, then the water in the pan won't evaporate. How big of a room are you trying to cool down, Eric? We installed a portable unit in our living room (roughly 14x14), and the 6,000 BTU unit is overkill. www.lg.com/us/air-conditioners/lg-lp0621wsr-portable-air-conditionerWe also have older Frigidaire window units in most rooms, and they work great, if a little noisy. The newer ones may be much more quiet. |
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Post by addamsruspipe on Jun 9, 2021 10:50:20 GMT -5
Right now I have a large roof swamp cooler with ducting through the attic. With vents into the ceiling of each room. She is talking about replacing the ac for the whole house which is about 2200 square feet. I think she is talking about refrigerated air for the whole house.
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Post by kbareit on Jun 9, 2021 11:06:33 GMT -5
If you already have the ductwork installing a air handler with A-coil might be the way to go if you also have return air. If not I highly recommend mini split units. They are easily installed and only require a small hole to allow the line set from the outside to inside and is covered up by the wall unit. I installed one in my hot tub room that is 16X 16 with windows all the way around and it keeps it warm in the winter and cool in the summer and doesn't kill my electric bill.
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Post by addamsruspipe on Jun 9, 2021 14:34:20 GMT -5
If you already have the ductwork installing a air handler with A-coil might be the way to go if you also have return air. If not I highly recommend mini split units. They are easily installed and only require a small hole to allow the line set from the outside to inside and is covered up by the wall unit. I installed one in my hot tub room that is 16X 16 with windows all the way around and it keeps it warm in the winter and cool in the summer and doesn't kill my electric bill. would the mini splits work for an entire house? |
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Post by Ronv69 on Jun 9, 2021 14:59:09 GMT -5
If you already have the ductwork installing a air handler with A-coil might be the way to go if you also have return air. If not I highly recommend mini split units. They are easily installed and only require a small hole to allow the line set from the outside to inside and is covered up by the wall unit. I installed one in my hot tub room that is 16X 16 with windows all the way around and it keeps it warm in the winter and cool in the summer and doesn't kill my electric bill. would the mini splits work for an entire house? You would be better off if you just add the convention AC to your existing system. It will work better and be less money than the multiple mimi-splits you would need. |
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Post by Deleted on Jun 9, 2021 15:09:58 GMT -5
So my wife as asked be to look into getting air conditioning to replace our swamp cooler. Part of the reason being that one of my girls is a severe uncontrolled asthmatic and the AZ/NM wildfires have made the last week very difficult. Now I know nothing about air conditioning other then what I am finding online. Was wondering if anyone has personal experience and can give me some guidance on what to look for and stay away from. Thank you. What are you looking for? Window unit, through the wall, mini split or central? I don't know how swamp coolers work except that they use evaporation and don't work in Texas. If you have central heat then adding AC to it is your best bet. If this is because of asthma, go for central air. That way, the whole house can be closed to outside irritants. You may also want to put an air purifier in her bedroom and wherever else she spends the most time. |
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Post by just ol ed on Jun 9, 2021 15:23:58 GMT -5
we in cornerstone 1894 with complete overhaul in '91. can't help with request. Heat/AC all York brand, nothing but local outfit do tuneup on both units, change the "Bear" filter twice a year. Agree with the one above re: asthma. da wife has it + COPD. Small floor unit in her bedroom seems to help. It rotates.
Ed Duncan, Batavia, NY
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Post by trailboss on Jun 9, 2021 16:17:21 GMT -5
would the mini splits work for an entire house? You would be better off if you just add the convention AC to your existing system. It will work better and be less money than the multiple mimi-splits you would need. Agreed. A lot of older houses in Phoenix have a swamp cooler they run during the dry season and it is comfortable and cheaper to run. During the humid months, only an A/C will give you relief. I think your wife is on the right track, but you need to get more than one quote, and do your best to check references and reviews. |
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Post by Plainsman on Jun 9, 2021 16:55:10 GMT -5
I'm pondering the same problem. Ever since the new roof went on the house has become a summer-hotbox. I have vented hot-air so I have a lot of choices— that just confuse the issue.
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Post by Ronv69 on Jun 9, 2021 17:37:26 GMT -5
would the mini splits work for an entire house? You would be better off if you just add the convention AC to your existing system. It will work better and be less money than the multiple mimi-splits you would need. Sorry, I didn't have my glasses on when I typed this, but I guess you got the info anyway. 😳 |
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Post by kbareit on Jun 9, 2021 18:07:19 GMT -5
If you already have the ductwork installing a air handler with A-coil might be the way to go if you also have return air. If not I highly recommend mini split units. They are easily installed and only require a small hole to allow the line set from the outside to inside and is covered up by the wall unit. I installed one in my hot tub room that is 16X 16 with windows all the way around and it keeps it warm in the winter and cool in the summer and doesn't kill my electric bill. would the mini splits work for an entire house? They have them set up now that you would have one outdoor unit and it would run up to 4 indoor units so one unit per room. If you have a forced air system that is existing it is easier to add A/C to it. Not knowing what you have duct wise makes it hard to recommend either. If you don't have a cold air return duct it will have to be added to ensure proper distribution of the air. With a mini split system it doesn't matter because they don't use duct work to distribute the air. Echoing what was said earlier, get references and research for a contractor. There are many rip off artists in the HVAC field. |
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Post by trailboss on Jun 9, 2021 18:07:57 GMT -5
+1
It depends on where your comfort level of spending is, but there are options for filtration that can make your home up to the level of a clean room. That would probably be overkill, but there might be an advanced filtration system that finds your financial sweet spot.
As an afterthought: My mom suffered from Asthma, and never had any problems when we lived in Colorado. When we lived in Kansas and Texas the humidity levels really did a number on her. We had ambulances at the house more than I can recollect, bringing her oxygen. Swamp coolers are nice for those in an arid climate without respiratory issues, but I think your daughter will see an improvement in her condition going forward if you go to A/C. I would be interested in hearing what her doctor has to say about it.
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Post by trailboss on Jun 9, 2021 18:12:23 GMT -5
Quoted for truth.
The big names that advertise a lot...someone has to pay for the advertising.
Here in Phoenix, that in and of itself, is a good reason to run from them.
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Post by instymp on Jun 9, 2021 18:14:17 GMT -5
Swamp coolers won't work in high humidity - they are basically a pan of water that a fan blows over, so if the air is already moist, then the water in the pan won't evaporate. How big of a room are you trying to cool down, Eric? We installed a portable unit in our living room (roughly 14x14), and the 6,000 BTU unit is overkill. www.lg.com/us/air-conditioners/lg-lp0621wsr-portable-air-conditionerWe also have older Frigidaire window units in most rooms, and they work great, if a little noisy. The newer ones may be much more quiet. I have asthma, a tad of COPD & allergies out the ying yang. (I don't inhale) That definition of swamp cooler sounds like a breeding ground for stuff that whacks your wife's breathing.
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Post by trailboss on Jun 9, 2021 18:27:21 GMT -5
Swamp coolers won't work in high humidity - they are basically a pan of water that a fan blows over, so if the air is already moist, then the water in the pan won't evaporate. How big of a room are you trying to cool down, Eric? We installed a portable unit in our living room (roughly 14x14), and the 6,000 BTU unit is overkill. www.lg.com/us/air-conditioners/lg-lp0621wsr-portable-air-conditionerWe also have older Frigidaire window units in most rooms, and they work great, if a little noisy. The newer ones may be much more quiet. I have asthma, a tad of COPD & allergies out the ying yang. (I don't inhale) That definition of swamp cooler sounds like a breeding ground for stuff that whacks your wife's breathing.
His daughter, not his wife...the misunderstanding is understandable though.  What you said was what I was thinking though...water sitting in a pan in a warm climate sounds like a recipe for a funky situation. Unless someone is fastidious about draining the swamp cooler pan each season and monitoring it. This certainly comes to mind. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legionnaires%27_disease |
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Post by kbareit on Jun 9, 2021 18:32:45 GMT -5
Quoted for truth. The big names that advertise a lot...someone has to pay for the advertising. Here in Phoenix, that in and of itself, is a good reason to run from them. The average cost to replace a furnace and A/C here is around 8K. The average cost to the contractor for the equipment is around 3K. If I was ambitious and gave a crap about peoples comfort levels I could make a killing. The only HVAC work I do is for family and friends and they know that if there is a problem not to hound me about it, my refrigeration work come first. The biggest mistake I've made was people finding out I know how to fix RV A/C at the camp grounds. I had to make it clear that my work day is Friday when I arrive and to leave me alone Saturday and Sunday. I go there to get away from it all not to keep working all weekend. |
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Post by Ronv69 on Jun 9, 2021 20:06:59 GMT -5
I have a lot of skills that I keep to myself. HVAC has fallen off my list though. The new stuff is too complicated. Same thing with working on cars that aren't 57 Chevys. 😉🤠
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Post by addamsruspipe on Jun 9, 2021 21:37:43 GMT -5
Well I am getting three quotes on a new AC system. I have done some research on what I have and my furnace is fine for the house so it's just the ac that I need. From some research it sounds likely that they will try to sell me both, but I only need the ac. So I plan on putting the money towards a ac with air cleaner/purifier or what ever they call those. I will put up what the quotes are once I have them to see what you all think. Thanks. |
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Post by Ronv69 on Jun 9, 2021 22:13:58 GMT -5
Well I am getting three quotes on a new AC system. I have done some research on what I have and my furnace is fine for the house so it's just the ac that I need. From some research it sounds likely that they will try to sell me both, but I only need the ac. So I plan on putting the money towards a ac with air cleaner/purifier or what ever they call those. I will put up what the quotes are once I have them to see what you all think. Thanks. The price for adding the A coil might be close to the price of a new complete air handler. Compare both. |
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Post by trailboss on Jun 9, 2021 22:19:29 GMT -5
Sometimes the local utilities offer rebates on upgrading equipment.
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Post by kbareit on Jun 10, 2021 5:35:14 GMT -5
I'm not sure if you're aware of the SEER rating for A/C. (seasonal energy efficiency rating) The lowest rating is 14 and the most efficient is 25. The downside is the more efficient it is the more it costs. I had some people tell me about companies selling the most efficient systems and up charging for 14 SEER units. If get one in the middle range it won't kill you on the purchase and won't kill your electric bill.
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Post by Ronv69 on Jun 10, 2021 9:40:22 GMT -5
I'm not sure if you're aware of the SEER rating for A/C. (seasonal energy efficiency rating) The lowest rating is 14 and the most efficient is 25. The downside is the more efficient it is the more it costs. I had some people tell me about companies selling the most efficient systems and up charging for 14 SEER units. If get one in the middle range it won't kill you on the purchase and won't kill your electric bill. This is true. The most efficient I've had was a 13 and I thought it was very reasonable on electricity. We could keep our house in Houston at 64 degrees all summer for 350 bucks a month. |
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Post by addamsruspipe on Jun 11, 2021 18:41:28 GMT -5
So just had the first AC person leave. I am not happy. Now I will throw out that the original owner was a contractor and did a lot of things himself. First thing he says is that the furnace is old and that at only 80% efficiency we should replace that. Then he points out that the hot water heater is old and that he does not see a permit sticker on it so it is out of code and needs to be replaced. Then I go explain what we are thinking of and that it includes the need for some duct work. They don't do duct work. Pretty much a waste of my time. Hopefully the two other AC companies will be better.
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Post by Ronv69 on Jun 11, 2021 19:04:14 GMT -5
So just had the first AC person leave. I am not happy. Now I will throw out that the original owner was a contractor and did a lot of things himself. First thing he says is that the furnace is old and that at only 80% efficiency we should replace that. Then he points out that the hot water heater is old and that he does not see a permit sticker on it so it is out of code and needs to be replaced. Then I go explain what we are thinking of and that it includes the need for some duct work. They don't do duct work. Pretty much a waste of my time. Hopefully the two other AC companies will be better. I don't think that I would use him anyway. Code isn't a concern until you have to replace the water heater. Do you know how old the furnace is. They last about 25-30 years in Gulf Coast humidity. I think it would be about 20 years with your longer heating season. Any good company should be able to repair your ducts. I had our local AC repairman out today. He's going to take the furnace out and reseal the coil and plenum and fix any leaks in the ducts. 650 bucks. |
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Post by addamsruspipe on Jun 11, 2021 19:20:57 GMT -5
So just had the first AC person leave. I am not happy. Now I will throw out that the original owner was a contractor and did a lot of things himself. First thing he says is that the furnace is old and that at only 80% efficiency we should replace that. Then he points out that the hot water heater is old and that he does not see a permit sticker on it so it is out of code and needs to be replaced. Then I go explain what we are thinking of and that it includes the need for some duct work. They don't do duct work. Pretty much a waste of my time. Hopefully the two other AC companies will be better. I don't think that I would use him anyway. Code isn't a concern until you have to replace the water heater. Do you know how old the furnace is. They last about 25-30 years in Gulf Coast humidity. I think it would be about 20 years with your longer heating season. Any good company should be able to repair your ducts. I had our local AC repairman out today. He's going to take the furnace out and reseal the coil and plenum and fix any leaks in the ducts. 650 bucks. I know both my furnace and hot water heater are at least 20 years old, but they both work fine with no issues. It was just very frustrating. I am not going to let myself be bulldozed, so will have to see how the other quotes go. |
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