Carrier Condensor Differences

mel41g · Apr 25, 2014

We are preparing to replace the HVAC heat pump for our "bonus room", which is less than 500 sq.ft and is not used regularly. We are looking for something inexpensive (we replaced our main unit 2 yrs ago with an 18 seer Infinity system). I have had 4 Carrier dealers come out and provide me with quotes and I have a few questions. I'm looking for inexpensive, the "Fiat" instead of the "Cadillac" in this case - read 13 seer.

Currently we have a 2-Ton unit, 3 of the bidders suggest replacing with a 2-ton unit, 1 bidder suggests going down to a 1 1/2-ton unit. The 2-ton bidders argue that the cost difference is so small, it is better to put in the 2-ton. Interestingly, the 1 1/2-ton quote is by far the highest. Which would you recommend?

All 3 of my 2-ton quotes are for the same indoor unit, same heater, same thermostat. One of the bids (the cheapest) has a different condenser. I would like to know what the difference is between the 2 units. CH14NA024 and 25HCD324A003. I understand the CH unit is a "builder grade" and the 25H unit is from the comfort series. Besides that, I do not know what the differences are. Is one going to be significantly louder? Cheaper parts? Which would you recommend and why?

Thanks so much!

udarrell · Apr 25, 2014

We don't know where you live; for summer design, etc.?
Normally one (1)-Ton would be more than ample to cool 500-sf; I'd never go above a 1.5-Ton system for 500-sf; that is only 333.3 sf per ton. The 1.5-Ton system ought to perform more efficiently with quieter airflow, etc.

I'll let others sort-out the equipment differences.

BaldLoonie · Apr 25, 2014

Yea, can't fathom 2 ton for 500 sq ft unless all glass and in Florida, Texas or Arizona!!! My house is 970 sq ft with a 2 ton and I can hang meat in here on 100° days. I do like it frosty. Is the 1.5 ton the same dealer? Same heat pump?

The CH14 is a builder-specific model, not even shown on Carrier's website. The dealer must have some extra from new home work. Mexican made cheapo. The Comfort unit looks similar, it's the consumer base model, to the cheapo but is quieter, has a high pressure switch to protect the system if the 410 refrigerant pressure gets too high. Has a low pressure switch to save the system in case of a leak. The CH series may be about the only HP on the market that doesn't at least get a low pressure switch. The Comfort is American made if that matters to you.

Poodle Head Mikey · Apr 25, 2014

First: there is not a prayer that I would use a 2 ton system on this "less than 500 square foot" job.

If I were doing this job I would use either a Unico 1218 unit and a 1.5 ton outdoor unit - with some air flow trimming you will be able to get closer to the capacity you need - which is almost certainly less that 1.5 tons - or a mini-split unit sized to the actual load.

But much more likely the ducted Unico.

Oh! "inexpensive"! Why not use a window unit in that case? <g>

PHM
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dougfamous · Apr 25, 2014

Mini-splits.

Carrier Condensor Differences

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