Zone System

[dwtaylor]

I have a 5t high efficiency heat pump that was put in in 1996 when I had my house built. It is a Carrier with a Comfort Zone system with 3 zones. My question is this: I am getting ready to replace the unit and I have several quotes for several different makes and models. I am wanting a higher efficiency system and with all the quotes i have received, the best deal (to me) if for a 19 seer? Bryant 5t HP with 2 compressors? TO minimize the cost, all of the contractors say they can reuse the zone system and rewire it to the new system. Is this true or are they trying to get the unit sale and get me later with the zone system? How will my older system work with the new system? thanks in advance

[classical]

I am sure they can make it work, however why would you spring for an Evolution system and not pay for the matched Evolution zone panel and dampers. In the long run you will be much happier with the results.

[dwtaylor]

Well the main reason is the dampers are not accessible and the zone thermostats work fine. The dampers are above the ceiling between the first and second floor, i guess in between the floor joists.

[skippedover]

Well the main reason is the dampers are not accessible and the zone thermostats work fine. The dampers are above the ceiling between the first and second floor, i guess in between the floor joists.

If that's where they are, the people/builder who allowed them to be there was a complete idiot. Sooner or later, you'll need access to those damper. All that aside, I know of no Carrier/Bryant unit that has two compressors. What they do have and I highly recommend is their inverter technology, variable output units, called the Greenspeed/Extreme by Carrier/Bryant respectively. Coupled with the proper variable speed indoor unit, you'll achieve comfort like you've never experience in a home before, particularly with a zoned system. I do believe that the inverter units will operate better than a 2-stage unit with a non-modulating zone control system but if I were proposing the system, I'd want to speak with the techs at Carrier before promising the results. I'd also recommend locating the zone dampers and putting in access panels for each.

You KNOW one or more will die at the worst possible time and you'll have someone punching holes in your ceiling looking for it, if they even have the time to do so. Good luck with that issue.

[dwtaylor]

Thank you for the information. I will definately be looking into that!

[2old2rock]

You need to find a knowledgeable contractor.
Those dampers will quit working one day.
And Skip had some good advice on the equipment selection.
An improperly zoned 5 ton system can be big headaches.