Packaged unit vs. split system

[Joemero]

I am getting quotes to do an evaporative to refrigeration conversion.
My house:
1800 SQF
Two Story
Vaulted ceilings
10 registers

I would much rather have a split system so that I can get rid of the unsightly Ultra Cool sitting on my roof. I wouldn't want to replace it with another box (packaged system). The first contractor (got two more on the way) strongly suggested a 5 ton 13 seer packaged unit sit on my roof because of my vaulted ceilings and two stories. He says it would be more efficient because cold air falls rather than try to push it up from my furnace closet.

Contractor also eyeballed my house and said we needed a 5 ton which is for 2000 SQF, he said rule of thumb is always to oversize.

The roof unit is more expensive and would be an easier install for the contractor. I want to know if it is still advisable to go with a split and have the condensor in my backyard.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

[txcchbubba]

In my opinion, you sure need to scratch the first contractor off you list.

[james mo]

I prefer split systems due to the higher efficiencies available and the access to the equiptment for maintenance and repair

[a\c don]

1800 sq. ft./ 5 tons?
Where do you live?
I would get some more estimates if I were you.
And oversizing is not a good thing.;)

[james mo]

Eyeballing a job is not a good idea. Sounds like you are in Tucson. I always heard that anything over 2000 sq ft was 5 tons out there. Heat load calculations are important for you and the contractor. When I do a heat load calculation, I know the system will do the job and when you see me do a heat load, you know I am serious about my profession.---As far as pushing cold air up, ask him how he plans to push the hot air down!!!

[totaleclipse]

In my opinion, you sure need to scratch the first contractor off you list.

x2
Unless your contractor does a load on your house, they are just guessing. If the unit is not sized correctly, you could stand to loose a lot, mainly your house and health.
Get someone out that will do a load so they KNOW what size you need.

[Joemero]

Contractor said if I went with a split system they would cap off the roof where the evap was sitting and actually put a plug down the duct to avoid the unecessary ductwork that was going up to the evap unit. I currently have a furnace in a closet which is where they are planning to install the Carrier Comfort 80. Does this make sense?

I live in El Paso Texas where the heat gets up to 100-110F dry heat in June and a little more humid in August. 85% of the houses here have swamp coolers.