I have a 2-story, 2300-sq ft tract home in Northern CA. Temps reach 100F in the summer and 35-40F in the winter, humidity is not an issue. The single-zone HVAC system is original (1997) and is in need of replacement due to refrigerant leakage. The house also has the original R-19(??) insulation. After soliciting bids from three different contractors, I am soliciting feedback on the equipment and ductwork improvements that were proposed.
1) The south-facing upstairs rooms get very warm during the summer months. All three contractors stated the ductwork to the upstairs is undersized and the return is located in a poor location (stairwell area). Supposedly, correcting both issues is not financially feasible. Two contractors said to leave it alone unless I want to add a separate HVAC system for the second floor. Another contractor suggested adding an "air scoop" to divert more flow to the upstairs rooms, which would presumably improve cooling during the summer months. This would be accompanied by a motorized "dampener door" to reduce flow during the winter months. Does this sound like a viable solution?
2) All three contractors recommended a single-stage A/C unit and an 80% efficiency furnace for reliability. Two contractors also suggested a single-stage furnace for reliability. However, one contractor suggested pairing the single-stage A/C unit with a two-stage furnace for improved comfort during the winter months. Supposedly the two-stage furnace can run at a reduced output level (when appropriate), which would help maintain a more constant temperature. Does this make sense? Also, from a reliability standpoint, are two-stage furnaces still significantly more reliable than a variable furnace?
Thank you.
1) The south-facing upstairs rooms get very warm during the summer months. All three contractors stated the ductwork to the upstairs is undersized and the return is located in a poor location (stairwell area). Supposedly, correcting both issues is not financially feasible. Two contractors said to leave it alone unless I want to add a separate HVAC system for the second floor. Another contractor suggested adding an "air scoop" to divert more flow to the upstairs rooms, which would presumably improve cooling during the summer months. This would be accompanied by a motorized "dampener door" to reduce flow during the winter months. Does this sound like a viable solution?
2) All three contractors recommended a single-stage A/C unit and an 80% efficiency furnace for reliability. Two contractors also suggested a single-stage furnace for reliability. However, one contractor suggested pairing the single-stage A/C unit with a two-stage furnace for improved comfort during the winter months. Supposedly the two-stage furnace can run at a reduced output level (when appropriate), which would help maintain a more constant temperature. Does this make sense? Also, from a reliability standpoint, are two-stage furnaces still significantly more reliable than a variable furnace?
Thank you.