First time HVAC buyer

[jwblue]

I am replacing an HVAC unit for the first time.

1) What is the best way to get a HVAC load calculation?

Hire someone?

Software? Can a layman use the software?


2) Do I need to buy the HVAC unit from the installer? Is that he least expensive place to buy the HVAC unit?

[acwizard]

Hiring someone would probably be your best bet. Software is expensive for a onetime application. You could also if you are so inclined to do it the old fashion way. Long hand methods will achieve the same results, it just takes longer.

[jwblue]

BTW, I don't know anything about anything about buying an HVAC.

I should have asked first. If I have a 1,250 sqft townhome, do I even need a load calculation?

[George2]

BTW, I don't know anything about anything about buying an HVAC.

I should have asked first. If I have a 1,250 sqft townhome, do I even need a load calculation?

At the top of the page you'll see HVAC Calc. You could do you own.

But that said, a lot will depend on the ductwork as far as the (airflow)delivery and how that will effect the size of the equipment.

What size equipment do you have now and have you had any issues with airflow?

It's good to ask some questions here first because you'll be more knowledgeable than most of the contractors that will call on you.

[jwblue]

At the top of the page you'll see HVAC Calc. You could do you own.

But that said, a lot will depend on the ductwork as far as the (airflow)delivery and how that will effect the size of the equipment.

What size equipment do you have now and have you had any issues with airflow?

It's good to ask some questions here first because you'll be more knowledgeable than most of the contractors that will call on you.

What is the size of the equipment measured by?

Is there a sticker on the unit that will tell what size the unit is?

[acwizard]

Most States require a building permit to replace HVAC equipment. Check with your local building department for information. As far as a load calculation, most homes built prior to the 1990s had oversized equipment. It probably behooves you to do so as energy cost continue to rise. Replacing a system is a 20 year investment in your home.

[jwblue]

Most States require a building permit to replace HVAC equipment. Check with your local building department for information. As far as a load calculation, most homes built prior to the 1990s had oversized equipment. It probably behooves you to do so as energy cost continue to rise. Replacing a system is a 20 year investment in your home.

Thank you for the information guys. This is all a little overwhelming.

I found a free online load calculator. However, I don't see how a layman let alone an HVAC expert could answer a lot of the questions on there. There are questions about the wall, ceiling, and floor material including the insulation for each.

How the heck could even an HVAC expert answer those questions?

What is the useful life for an HVAC? We have had ours for 30 years?

[acwizard]

Average life is about 20 years. The information about R- values and U ratings, walls , windows etc. is what a good HVAC contractor deals with on a daily basis.

[George2]

Some utility companies will do a Manual J for you for a fee. They would also be non-bias.

There are sometimes utility rebates to offset the cost of the Manual J.

Is your townhome sandwiched between two others?

How does the heat and A/C work now? Any issues?

[dandyme]

here's you something to read before you go much further in your quest

[rickboggs]

The ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) has some good guidelines of what to expect from your contractor
http://www.acca.org/consumer/installing/

[jwblue]

here's you something to read before you go much further in your quest


The ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) has some good guidelines of what to expect from your contractor
http://www.acca.org/consumer/installing/

Fantastic easy to understand info everyone.

Thank you.

Is it mandatory that I purchase the unit from the contractor/installer? Do contractors every install a unit not bought from them?

Do they offer the best price?

[acwizard]

You are better off to buy equipment from the installer because of any warranty problems which may arise. I would recommend you get at least three quotes and ask the contractor for referrals. As a contractor , I have installed equipment bought by the homeowner, but before doing so I make it very clear in writing about warranties and any other problems that might come up.

[rickboggs]

If you buy the equipment from the contractor it will have a warranty. If you find someone to install your equipment it's yours.
ACCA is Air Conditioning Contractor‘s Association.

[egads]

HVAC is not DYI. The units you can buy off the internet are the lowest quality.
You should dismiss this idea that you are going to save some money by buying a unit and then getting someone to install it. The mark up on the equipment is usually not that high. The qualified installers are the expensive part. And a crappy install from the lowest bidder will end up costing more in the end. (just read about the nightmares folks post about here) Or cost more to run. You live in San Diego so you have months you can use to do research and vet contractors. Not only does a contractor need to size correctly for heat gain and loss, but he must also take the existing duct work into account. This going to be way more expensive than you think. Welcome to home ownership. If you are just naturally cheap, try to concentrate on value instead of cost. Be frugal not cheap.

[George2]

egada is so right on. My son has a first home. When he has to call for electrical work, plumbing or (recently) window replacements, I shutter.

I tell him to find someone that will do good work, on time, will finish the project and will stand behind the work without crying about "I didn't make any money on that job".

So far, through referrals, he has had all of the above done and has been very pleased.

I told him that low price doesn't mean good value. You may get lucky, but we get what we pay for.

So many here have posted about "needing to do things over". Not only is that expensive, but who needs the grief?

Have you been reading about the contractors that (I will give them credit)
return but don't know how to fix the problems?

Do your research and find a contractor that you'll be happy to hang on to his business card.

You'll also be doing your neighbors a favor when they need somone.

[TomHarper]

HVAC is not DYI. The units you can buy off the internet are the lowest quality.

I 100% agree.

[tipsrfine]

I am replacing an HVAC unit for the first time.

1) What is the best way to get a HVAC load calculation?

Hire someone?

Software? Can a layman use the software?


2) Do I need to buy the HVAC unit from the installer? Is that he least expensive place to buy the HVAC unit?

With your climate, I don't even see why you need an air conditioner. Your state is giving out tax credits/rebates for installing whole house fan systems that take advantage of your mild climate. Odds are the only reason your home becomes uncomfortable during the day is due to solar heat gain & lack of fresh air ventilation. Look into it, you may find you are able to save a lot of money on both not having the purchase/installation price of a new a/c, but also on the cost of having to run it.