3.5 or 4 ton?

Feb 10, 2006 2 Replies

South Florida



2970 sq ft (600 sq ft is upstairs)
2-story vaulted ceilings downstairs
2.5 ton cools upstairs, plus guest bedroom downstairs need new a/c for downstairs

Two different Trane contractors have offered opinions Trane 15i 3.5 ton Trane 19i 4 ton (not available in 3.5 ton)



These units will have rebates available effective 3-1-06



The old unit is a 3.5 ton with a 4 ton air handler



You really need a load calc for the right answer but be careful using one that is too big. It will make the place "cave clammy" because it won't run enough to pull out the moisture.

First question is did either of them do a load calculation? If not they are just guessing just as we would.

Why are you limiting your choice to Trane contractors? You should start off with picking a good contractor, (good ones will do a load calculation) and consult with them about the merits of different manufacturers. A poor install (which includes sizing) is more important than the manufacturer of the equipment. A good contractor will not sell you a poor unit.

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