AboutHoward Livingston Expertise Can answer questions on electrical control circuits, power supply,airflow & distribution, electrical components,refrigerant problems,gas, electric & propane furnaces.No boiler or refrigerator or oil fired furnaces experience.Just HVAC questions please.
Experience 35 years experience in residential & light commercial repair & installation.
Question I have been getting estimates for central air install w/duct for my old colonial home in northern nj. All of the contractors offered Rheem and I'm ok with that unit. They say I need 3.5 ton so I opted for the 13 seer unit. My question is, the one contractor I want to go with offered the variable speed as an option for $475. Is it worth it or should I shop around? All the estimates came in at $8k-$9k
Answer The only advantage I've seen for variable speed blowers is quiet. If a return air grille faces a living area thats good. Otherwise I don't like them. That computer controlled motor is very expensive to replace. Glad you got more than 1 estimate. That 8 to 9k price blowss me away but I'm from the old school. Hope that includes flex ducts with 1 1/2" insulation & ductboard plenums for quiet.Glad you used the 13 SEER. The increase to higher isn't worth it when comparing run amps. A good rule of thumb for tonnage down here in Texas is 500 sq. ft./ton. Maybe 600 to 650/ton in NJ. Good air distrubition is critical for long life of the equipment. Good luck.
