System Architecture

Christian Egli

You give no indication that your steam system is currently abandoned, thus, I see no reason why you should give it up.

Steam is a very nice method of heating which will never be matched by a hot air system. There have been many posts right here in favor of steam and showing how a little maintenance goes a huge way forward.

You want to install AC, I understand that.

In new homes, AC and heat are provided by the same system because it obviously cuts the installation costs a little. However, this is a compromise, the year-round system cannot be designed optimally for both heat and AC. The decrease in value to you comes from decreased efficiencies and decreased comfort. But, the original contractors was able to save himself some costs.

You’ve already got an optimally designed heating system. Good. Now you need another for AC. The two are not necessarily related. I would treat the AC on its own.

Installing central air ducts is expensive, or at least disruptive. Perhaps you could consider ductless split units AC. It is similar to what goes into central AC, but the indoor evaporator is smaller and fits as an appliance on a wall in each room. The compressor, and the noise, remains far away outside unlike in window units.

Thanks for asking

Mark_46

System Architecture

It is time for new heat system in my home. It is a 1800 sq ft 2 story house with wood framing and pitched roof, etc. Typical circa 1920s. We currently have a gas fired steam system.

We would like to add central A/C to the house as well. I guess the most cost effective system would be forced air, correct? This would allow heating and cooling via the same delivery system. If we chose hot water base board heat we would still need duct work for the A/C which is like having to different systems. Any thoughts?

Also, any suggestions on furnace and A/C compressor brands?