HVAC recommendations (heat pump, to buy, electric bill)

[Gaelcat]

I did a search before creating this thread. I was surprised there wasn't one. We are looking to replace one of our HVAC units and need recommendations on good, reliable companies. I'm getting a quote from Baileys but would like a couple of other recommendations.

The upstairs unit is currently gas with an evaporator and compressor for the air conditioning (split system). We are likely going to replace it with a heat pump. The heat pump seems like the best choice because the upstairs is already getting rising heat from downstairs (gas heat) so it should be efficient, even in cold weather. Heat pumps are much more efficient for A/C, which will be good for summer, when the upstairs is hot. Also considering geothermal. Thoughts? Anybody switched from gas to heat pump?

[trollhole]

If the upstairs unit is having problems and it is just the A/C side that is giving you the issues I'd reccommend doing this.

Take just the A/C coils out and install a heat pump coils and outside unit. It's called a dual fuel system. Honeywell makes a thermostat that controls both the Gas heater and the heatpump. Works great for our area because we usually have such mild winters but when it does get cold the heatpumps just don't cut it and the electric bill goes sky high. The couple of systems I have installed I set the thermostat to cut the heatpump off at around 34 degrees and switch the gas heat on.

This works really well for people who already have gas heat but want the effency of a heat pump. If you gas system works well keep it and just add the heat pump coils and a new heatpump outside. You will find out it is cheaper to do this because your not having to buy a whole air handler.

As far as installers I've used General and Carolina Heating and Air. Both have done good work.

[Sheri Sanders]

I would also call Gauranteed Services, 864-906-2086, or 864-906-1564

[pgriss]

I agree with Sheri!