what to expect for central A/C install prices (Santa Ana: credit, house)

[kevincw01]

I have an existing 3 year old furnace located in the attic of a 2 story 2500 sq ft. home in huntington beach with central heating. I want to add a split system central a/c. The electric panel has already been upgraded for 200 amp service and the compressor will be located right next to it. I'm going to get 3 or 4 quotes, one from sears and the rest from local guys. What should I expect, watch out for, etc.

p.s. I know about the energy star tax credit but I've already maxed that out in 2009 on windows so I cant count on that (which means I'll probably get a 14 seer instead of 16 seer).

-Kevin

[Charles]

I don't see how an internet forum can provide you with much more information than four reliable quotes from guys crawling around in your home and seeing first hand the equipment and ducting you have. Hopefully he performs a Manual J calculation.

Since SCE and LADWP power is expensive (maybe $0.15/kwhr to a tiered $0.25/kwhr???), get a high SEER A/C. (Power here in Huntsville is almost free at $0.07/kwhr.)

While we're on this subject, consider an thermostatically controlled attic fan and, more ambitiously, a whole house fan. Make sure you get an ultra quiet whole house fan.

Plant deciduous shade trees on the west and east sides of your house.

Finally, do you even need A/C in Huntington Beach? With shade trees and ceiling fans, I don't think I'd ever use A/C in HB - except in December when the Santa Anas kick it up to 90F.