1.5 T 14 SEER or 2 T 16 SEER?

[nagaseth]

Replacing an old 1.5T HVAC unit upstairs that has 3/8”and 5/16” Line set.

Option 1

Replace with a new 1.5-ton, 14, SEER, Lennox unit (Freon 22) and a 80% Variable speed gas system, with out changing the line set. (Cheaper by 2500$) (1100 Sq. Foot upper floor)

Option 2

Replace with a New 2 ton 16 SEER Lennox/Trane unit (410a) that requires addition of new line set, couple of additional supply vents, and one return vent. Expensive by 2500$

Contractor 1 recommends option 1, but willing to do option 2
Contractor 2 recommends option 2

What are your thoughts

Thanks

[amd]

If your current 1.5 ton unit cools properly, don't upsize. Oversized systems consume more energy and don't remove enough humidity.

[nagaseth]

Even a .5 Ton increase can affect humidity and energy ?

[dan sw fl]

Originally posted by nagaseth
Replacing an old 1.5T HVAC unit upstairs that has 3/8”and 5/16” Line set.

Option 1

Replace with a new 1.5-ton, 14, SEER, Lennox unit (Freon 22) and a 80% Variable speed gas system, with out changing the line set. (Cheaper by 2500$) (1100 Sq. Foot upper floor)

What are your thoughts?

Location?

[mjk_na]

My take, option 1 if you have had satisfactory cooling with 1.5 ton before.

[Freezeking2000]

Originally posted by nagaseth
Even a .5 Ton increase can affect humidity and energy ?

YES!

[beenthere]

Originally posted by nagaseth
Even a .5 Ton increase can affect humidity and energy ?

Its possible.

.5 ton is 33% increase on a 1.5 ton.

If the 2 ton unit is 2 stage, then you should have no trouble.

[nagaseth]

My Location : North Metro Atlanta

I was thinking that 2T with 16 SEER is a better choice because 1) Energy saving 2) Better cooling 3) Latest Technology

I now realize that 1.5T is the ideal unit after reading all your opinions. Why dont manufacturers make 1.5T with 16 SEER rating ?

[nagaseth]

Sorry, I for got to add. 2T is two stage (Trane XL16i)

[Freezeking2000]

2 Ton 2 stage is the better choice so you get the high seer.

[beenthere]

2 ton 2 stage is better then 1.5 ton single stage.

[Gunnery Sergeant Hartman]

I finished my 950 square foot bonus room on the 2nd floor of my house and installed a heat pump myself.
The load came to just under 1.5 tons so I installed a Trane XL14i 1 1/2 ton w/ a variable speed ahu.
I really wish I would've used the XL16i 2 ton 2 stage because when I have company over or when its 95+ degrees it does have a little trouble keeping up with the demand.

[nagaseth]

Thanks

Why cant contractors quote separately for the unit and separately for Installation. This way I know how much a XL16I costs and how much they bill for installation

Is it customary in HVAC field that prices are kept confidential? So that customer cannot compare the cost effectiveness of contractors