A couple of months ago, the HVAC unit in my home started malfunctioning. The temperature inside my home soared to over eighty degrees Fahrenheit, even though my air conditioning system ran nonstop. After inspecting my air conditioning unit, my knowledgeable HVAC contractor recommended I purchase a new system. He discussed the pros and cons of installing different sizes of HVAC units with me. After considering my HVAC contractor’s advice, I decided to purchase a three and a half ton HVAC unit. Shortly after my HVAC contractor installed my new air conditioning unit, my house started feeling more comfortable. On this blog, I hope you will discover how an HVAC contractor can help you select the right air conditioning unit for your home. Enjoy!
When you have a two-story duplex, installing air conditioning comes with a few intricacies. You want the two stories to be able to independently control their temperatures. You may also prefer that the power used to cool the upstairs unit comes from a separate electrical connection from that used to cool the downstairs so that the two can be billed independently. So what are your options in terms of system types? How can you make this installation process smoother? Take a look.
Top AC Systems for Two-Story Duplexes
One option is to simply install two separate central air conditioning units. The outdoor condensers can sit side by side, and the indoor coils can also sit side by side. But one will be ducted only to the upstairs, and the other will be ducted only to the downstairs. This option works well if the home is quite large since central AC can cool quite a large space. The downside is that if you do not already have ductwork in the home or the ductwork is not independent for the two units, the installation can become quite complex and costly.
Another option is to install ductless, mini-split units in each apartment. There would be outside condensers associated with each unit, and then indoor units mounted on the walls in each apartment. This is simpler in terms of installation, but the wall units can get a little cumbersome, and you may not be able to cool the spaces as thoroughly and evenly.
Tips for Having the System Installed
If you have a limited budget, a good approach is to bring an HVAC contractor over for an estimate. Tell them how much you have to work with, and ask what their AC suggestions are for remaining in that budget.
Also, if the apartments are currently occupied, give the residents plenty of notice that you will be having AC installed. Even though you may only legally be required to give them a few days' notice, they'll appreciate being able to plan, since this type of complex AC installation can take three days or more.
Finally, make sure your contractor knows whether your goal is to have the AC units on one electrical system or two. This can have a huge impact on the type of system they recommend for you.
Installing an AC in a two-story duplex can have its hassles, but with a good contractor like Bud's Heating & Air Conditioning on your side, you'll be set.
Share