Infinity/Evolution Question

[nathan9999]

Does the Evolution thermostat add value to a VS furnace (355MAV042060) and a single stage AC (556AN036)? Or do you need the 2 speed (or stage) AC in order to benefit from the Evolution controller?

If the Evolution does add value to the above configured system, what are the benefits?

Thanks

[rdj357]

You could do a search here, it's been discussed or read about the evolution at:

http://www.bryant.com/corp/details/0,,CLI1_DIV42_ETI8788,00.html

It gives you control of fan speed at the stat and better control of fan speed for dehumidification so IMHO, yes if adds value with or without the 2-speed although I do like the 2 speed.
:-)

- Robert

[nathan9999]

Robert, so the converse question is: How much of the benefit of having a variable speed fan is lost without the Evolution control? If I have a VS furnace and a regulat controller am I losing out on some benefit of the VS fan?

I ask because my proposed system has a VS fan with a non evolution controller (local dealer has never installed an Evolution controller and he is uneasy about making a mistake).

Is the Evolution a problem to install? Is my dealer being too cautious?

[jrbenny]

extremely easy to install. he's being a wuss. even a tech rep can install it. :D

[nathan9999]

How would you compare zoning with the Evolution controller and standard zoning?

My dealer is recommending a 2 zone with a bypass. Does Evolution zoning use a bypass?

[Advanced Response]

Nat,
Get with a company that knows all the ins and outs of zoning and offers evolution zoning...
It is a cream of the crop.. No Bypass.. The evolution knows each zone cfm limitations and can be adjusted for noise(to a point,,three settings,, might compromise on comfort if ducting is not sized correctly..).. I can't wait to switch out my current zoning system with a evolution zone system..

Go with a quality contractor first... If they offer bryant or Carrier,, get a evolution or infinity zone system..

Many great advancements compared to other zone systems..
A bypass on a VS does not work right unless several procautions are done,, the bypass and VS will fight with eachother..

Good luck,
J

[dash]

Advanced is right about Infinity zoning ,no bypass,sets it self up,etc.

It actually much easy than others,tell yourr guy to check it out.It will also work better with a two speed ,as it will likely run in only low when one zone is calling,so you have half the capacity and CFM's,in that one zone.

[nathan9999]

Advanced and Dash, thanks for the responses. My problem in this whole process has been that I educate myself on this site and then find it quite a challenge to find a local dealer who has the experience and willingness to design the job with the desired features.

My house is ready right now for HVAC rough-in so I don't know if I can take anymore time to get a better proposal.

Can you explain why a VS and bypass fight each other?

Final question. Let's say I just go with a non zoned system but try to get the Evolution controller for better VS control. Could zoning be added later?

Thanks

[Edited by nathan9999 on 09-17-2005 at 09:37 AM]

[nathan9999]

dash, let's say I opt not to zone right now.

There will be 2 split systems. One system will handle the middle living area. The second system will handle split wing bedroom areas. The contractor proposed a zoned system for the bedroom area.

How about this for a first option?

1. Install the 90% VS furnace, the 14 SEER AC with the
Evolution controllers.
2. Run wiring for a second controller in the area of the return of the second zone but do not set a controller.
3. Zone at a later date.

Would this work or are there other ducting issues that would make zoning later too difficult?

Thanks

[dash]

When a bypass opens due to higher static as not all zones are calling,it lowers the static.The variable speed is adjusting,first to the high and then the low static,to deliver full cfms.Not saying a properly designed system won't work well.

With Infinity ,no bypass,and the controoler,adjust cfms of the motor,and air to each zone based on the conditions at the time,it just works a lot better that way.

With zoning it's best to oversize all ducts and grilles ,for 25% more air,if they can do that now,and have separate ducts for each zone,so dampers can be installed later.Then you could easily addd it on,but the first Controller will need to be replaced.

Best to do it all now.Have you refered him to this site,he could read all this and may be more inclined to go ahead.

[nathan9999]

Dash, would the wiring for the Evolution controller be any different than a regular thermostat? If not then I'll see about having the duct work and registers increased as you suggest and adding the wiring for the additional controller. The later I can (1) replace the existing controllers, (2) add the third controller, and (3)add the damper later.

If it's just 2 zones is there only one damper?

Thanks again.

[dash]

Wiring is stilla just four conductors,always run extra.

Two zone = two dampers ,the controlers and dampers ,are daisy chain wiring(4 wires from point to point,in any order),very simple to prepare for.