HVAC

[EvinFord]

Alright guys, I need some help. I know nothing about HVAC systems and I am in need of a completely new system. My wife and I bought a house and the AC and Heater are very old and need to be replaced. The house is around 1600 square feet and everything will need to be replaced, the outside unit, inside unit and heater. How large of a unit will I need to get and how much should I expect this to cost? I have an idea but want to get some opinions first. I have always heard go bigger than you think you will need because you always want to be a little overpowered the underpowered when it comes to AC units.

Also, I am looking for a good quality HVAC company to come out and give me a quote, any recommendations in the Baton Rouge Area?

Thanks in advance.

-Jordan

[bay_slayer]

Dont go too much bigger than what you need, because the a/c wont pull the humidity out of the house like you want because it will cool down the house too fast and not circulate the air well enough to get the humidity out. Best thing to do is ask the a/c man what he recommends.

[eman]

At 1600 sq feet i'd go w/ a 3 - 3.5 ton.
Go to the bbb website and rule out any companys that have over a few resolved complaints and rule out any that have more than 1 unresolved complaint.

call ac companys and ask if they give free estimates.
Let them give you an estimate.
make sure that it's for name brand equipment and for the same size unit.
make sure that the company is licensed and bonded and get any warrenty info in writing.
I'm an electrician so i can make em work but can't install em.

[SKnox]

Evin, hows the insulation in the house? if you are insulated good you need to go with a 3 ton. If your lacking go up a half ton. I own a A/C buisness over here in Ragley. Did the unit you have in your house work at all since you've had it? If it did and you were comfortable, stay with the size you have in there. And don't get caught up on this name brand over that name brand... All the parts in every unit are the same. most of which come from Mexico and assembled in the good ole' U.S.A. Look at warranties this is the only difference in any A/C system, that and how much they cost! If you have any questions, drop me a line.
Scott