5T units/tax credit

[jvrobert]

Are 5T units that meet the federal tax credit requirements really that rare? I've talked to two contractors. The first said he could get me a Performance 17 and that was about it. The second said he had literally nothing in 5T.

Are they just trying to sell only what they have in stock, or are qualifying 5T units that rare?

Thanks

[beenthere]

They are rare.
The larger the size. The harder it is to make it efficient enough to meet the standard.

[SBKold]

Beenthere correct me if im wrong Amana should have a Cased Coil and MBE blower matchup that does qualify. I will research ARI Number. If i get a response.

[beenthere]

It may. Some manufacturers have 5 ton heat pumps that will qualify.

I don't know who all though.

Not sure if any A/cs do though.

[SBKold]

Guess I need to know which it is. The cased coil and modular blower setup are heat pumps too.

[SBKold]

Heres a Heat Pump Amana

[jvrobert]

Thanks guys. I'm fairly new to this.. I live in Phoenix, would a heat pump be a reasonable and economic option, or are they considerably more expensive?

Anybody know of any other options besides the Performance 17 that would qualify at 5T?

EDIT: My house is just under 2200 square feet, built in 1997 so probably reasonable insulation. For a typical Phoenix cookie-cutter house, 2 stories, is it likely I require a 5T or would a 4T be adequate? Nobody that's come out has really done a real calculation, they just asked square feet and existing (old, crappy) 5T unit that's out there now. In particular, I'm interested in whether the Nordyne Iq drive 4T unit would be suitable.

[beenthere]

Need a load calc done to know what size you need.
You can do your own HVAC Calc (http://hvaccomputer.com/talkref.asp) if you want.
Its worth the 49 dollar fee.

[Stamas]

I'd look into two separate systems. Not saying that it can be done, but I'd still look at the possibilities. More efficiency, comfort and Tax Credit models available.

[troutfly]

goodman has a 5 ton too.....might be a little more affordable than amana if u are on a tight budget(same company as amana).....Trane has no offer in the 5 ton heat pump,we can do u a gas furnace(120k btu,95%,5 ton drive) and get u the credit......

[ibis1]

goodman has a 5 ton too.....might be a little more affordable than amana if u are on a tight budget(same company as amana).....Trane has no offer in the 5 ton heat pump,we can do u a gas furnace(120k btu,95%,5 ton drive) and get u the credit......

I don't think he's on a tight budget if he's looking at an IQ drive, but 5 tons for 2200 sq. ft seems kinda high, maybe not. As others have said, he needs to get an accurate load calc. Also as Stamos suggested, two units might be worth looking into. Don't get in a big hurry, look at all your options and find a good contractor. Good luck. ibis1:patriot:

[RoBoTeq]

Best to go with a heat pump. They are easier to qualify for tax credits and enhance any heating system.

[SBKold]

Yes look into that Amana and Goodman system. They are both the same company. The Amana will be a little nicer unit (appearance, construction, sound level) but pretty much functionally the same. In a Dry Arizona summer I would think that since latent heat (moisture...humidity) is not a big issue you could go with a 4 ton outdoor unit and move 5tons of air with the indoor unit and still remove plenty of sensible heat. Anyone else agree?

[quickcat46]

jvrobert
EDIT: My house is just under 2200 square feet, built in 1997 so probably reasonable insulation. For a typical Phoenix cookie-cutter house, 2 stories, is it likely I require a 5T or would a 4T be adequate? Nobody that's come out has really done a real calculation, they just asked square feet and existing (old, crappy) 5T unit that's out there now. In particular, I'm interested in whether the Nordyne Iq drive 4T unit would be suitable.

One suggestion would be to continue looking for a quality contractor in your area. Check with the BBB or ask friends if they have a recommendation. 4 or 5 quotes until you find one that has the correct answers for your questions. Not just rebate but air quality, heat loads upstairs vs downstairs, and energy efficency.....heat pump vs gas furnace vs boiler vs electric heat.
Hey I could guess about what system you may need all day but a eye's on approach usually works best.