Replacing 56 year-old furnance

[MadnNatsmom]

I know - hard to believe.

I've gotten 3 estimates so far - all gave me differing opinions.

I have a 1600 sq. ft. one-story home in Southern California. Our home is very well shaded and although we've lived in this house for 6 years, we've only felt the need for central air last summer. The ancient furnace still works and is very efficient at heating the house.

Could I please get your thoughts on the following?:

1. How many tons do I need for my home - I've been recommend 3.5, 4.0 and 5.0.

2. Will I really save on energy bills by getting a two-stage variable speed furnace?

3. Would I benefit from having 2 zones - one for the bedrooms and one for the living area?

Thank you very much!

[beenthere]

You need a contrator to do an actual oad calc for you.
5 tons sounds way high, and 4 tons sounds high also.

3 or 3.5 could be right, but I don't know any thing about your house to know one way or another.

2 stage is more for comfort then for saving money.

Zoning can save you money, if you don't cool both zones to the same te,p 24/7, other wise it won't save you money.
But will help to ensure you can cool the bedrooms to a temp you like.

[MadnNatsmom]

beenthere -

Thank you!

[icyflame]

You need a contrator to do an actual oad calc for you.
5 tons sounds way high, and 4 tons sounds high also.

3 or 3.5 could be right, but I don't know any thing about your house to know one way or another.

2 stage is more for comfort then for saving money.

Zoning can save you money, if you don't cool both zones to the same te,p 24/7, other wise it won't save you money.
But will help to ensure you can cool the bedrooms to a temp you like.

I agree with 'beenthere'. I would only submit; 1600sqft. would be a small zone system. You could accomplish bedrooms at a different temps with a good tstat with a nite time set back or a programable tstat.

[Airmechanical]

make sure they include the 56 year extended warranty:D



.

[cyro]

You also have other fuel choices today other then coal.

Sorry just couldn't resist

[oldertech]

I want to thank those who occasionally throw in a joke. All the serious talk can get to ya..........