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Does an Air Handler and Condenser Have to Match? - Ask the Expert Episode 131
Duration: 1:56
Sometimes you just have to replace the air handler or condenser part of your heating and air conditioning system without replacing the whole thing. But do the air handler and condenser have to match?
Video Script:
"Can a heat pump be replaced without having to replace the air handler?" The answer is yes, but with some caveats.
You have to make sure the units you have match appropriately. You can't just go to a store and buy the first condenser you see and match it with the air handler in your house. They might work together. They might not.
A good start would be to make sure that the brands are matched. Then you could look up on HRI to see if they're matched to work together. Or you could ask the manufacturer. Then you will want to make sure they have the same refrigerant.
Have more questions? Just ask them in the comments below or on Facebook or on Twitter.
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Hi,
I live in the pacific northwest (Washington) My house square footage is around 2900 sq. Ft. A Hvac Company is trying to sell me an American Standard
16 Seer 3.5T Heat Pump. 4A6H042H1000A and a Air Handler 2-5T AMSEM6A0c42H415. We have Approx. 19 vents in home which is a split level. Based on his chart with 19 vents we needed a 4T system. I asked if I could get away with a 3T to save money. He indicated If that was my choice then call another company because it was under powered. We originally had a 3T which we considered possibly being underpowered? but that is what the last company put in maybe just because of the price and they wanted a sale? Anyway after the above conversation his bid came in and it was 3.5T. I asked him how come and he said his office said it would be overpowered if I went to a 4T. I was concerned that maybe that was all they could order? HIs 2nd estimate was for an american Standard 19seer variable paired with the 2-5T variable air handler. He said the heat pump was only 3T. So i questioned him and he said with a Variable paired system that air handler could move up to 5t I would be fine. Not sure what to do or what to believe. Thanks
If your current HVAC system has been covering your house well enough when the system is working, that's a good indicator that it is appropriately sized to your home. It's relatively common to switch an old unit out with a new unit of the same size if that size works for your house. If your current system feels underpowered, then their estimate of a 3.5 ton system would likely work. This being said, we cannot appropriately estimate the size you need, because we do not have the details we would need. It seems that you would also do best with an appropriately sized variable speed system, too.
Will a 3 ton mr cool air handler work with a 3 ton Ruud condenser?
While the sizing would technically work, it's best to match brands. It also depends on what specific air handler you're talking about. You may want to ask either of the manufacturers to see if they are compatible.
6 years ago, we installed a Carrier infinity green speed 3 ton heat pump with matching Carrier air handler. A year ago the system stopped working and the best guess (from 3 service companies) is that the power inverter board on the heat pump failed. The unit is out of warranty because the installer did not file the warranty papers with Carrier. The inverter board is about $5000+ ( with no assurance that this is indeed the problem) and a new heat pump is much more. If I can match the refrigerant, seer and size, can I swop out the carrier heat pump and replace it with a more reliable unit? Would the electronic system controls work? And if not is there a work around?
That may be possible, but it would not be the most efficient option, especially if the new unit were from another brand. There may also be an issue with a warranty for the newer unit, because to receive the full warranty the unit may have to be paired with its matching unit. Although, depending on the system and the installer, this may not be a concern at all. While it may technically be possible, there may also be cons to consider.
I had my element replaced with a 2 ton carrier element and the old air handler was use with it, an international comfort product. The air handler needs replaced because it's not sealed and losing efficiency causing my line to get plugged up every 9 or 10 months. I was told by an A/C company claims that the only air handler that would work is a carrier brand? The price is upwards of $4,000 and I think way too much. Your thoughts please..
While technically a properly sized air handler from another brand would work, it may have issues and problems with the warranty. If you have a Carrier outdoor unit, a Carrier air handler would likely be the best fit for it.
I replaced my AC system recently. My HVAC company was out of stock w new coils for a 3 Ton Lennox SEER 14 compressor so they used a 3.5 ton coil because they had it in stock. Sweltering here and wait times long for parts so I didnt question them but now am wondering if that was OK to do and what, if any problems could arise. He mentioned that they had to change the wiring. The coil is located in the attic. I don't understand what the wiring would have to do with it and if there might be other problems as a result of this.
That sounds like it's fine, especially if the HVAC company that you use was comfortable with it.
I have a xL14i condenser thats bad i was going to replace it with a reem 5 ton. Will the trane air handler work with the reem condenser. Both are HEAT PUMPS and both 5ton 410 systems. Just curious about the rewire.
Technically, it will likely work together since they are the same size. However, you'll get the highest efficiency if you match brands, as well.
Hello guys, I have a goodman furnace 3.5 tons with 3vaporator coil for r22 and r410a, then I bought a Trane condenser 3.5 tons XR 16 seers, my question is, the TXV valve must be match with the condenser or with the evaporator? Thanks friends.
Sizing is based on the condenser.
I want to instal a Mitsubishi mini split inverter MXZ-SC42NA2 -U1 42K BTU
to use with an existing ducted Lennox air handler CH33-25B-2f 189K BTU
Also want to install a 9K and 12K matchuing air handlers to make the house 3 zone.
Is there a way to get the mitsubishi air handler and Lennox air handler to communicate with each other?
Thanks for your help
While it may be possible, there is no way to know for sure, as these products were not designed for use with each other. If you'd like, you can give us a call at 270-575-9595.
can a 15 SEER heat pump condenser system supports 16 SEER air handler system?
Technically yes, but it would be the best idea to get units with the same SEER for the best efficiency.
Can I use a Mr Cool air handler with an LG Multi F Max inverter heat pump. I will have 5 LG air handlers + would like to also integrate this Mr Cool handler.
Ductless mini-splits are a bit different, we recommend only pairing the same brand air handler and condenser.
Hi, I have a Lennox CBX32MV air handler that is in great shape. I would like to replace the a/c outdoor unit with a heat pump instead. Do you know if there are any Lennox heat pump units that could work with this swap?
Call us at 270-575-9595, and we will help you find exactly what you need.
I have a 3.5 ton Rheem system with condenser and air handler as follows:
MODEL # RHQA-1600B // SERIAL # M2489 0139
MODEL # RCAB-A049S // SERIAL # M3489
I need the Evaporator drain pan replaced as it is leaking. I cannot find anyone willing to do the work.
It's summer and everyone wants to replace the system despite the fact that it works quite well still.
Some of the companies have indicated that when they get "slow" they might consider the work,
while others insist that the pan cannot be replaced even if fabricated to spec.
Any ideas would be much appreciated regarding where to get ta pan replacement for this?
(located just north of Boston, MA)
Give us a call at 270-575-9595, and we can get the pan for you. Just about any technician should be able to remove the coil and replace the pan, but, as you indicate, finding a tech to do the work could be difficult.
Heat pump condesor 2.5 ton Good man. Can I install it to a 3 ton carrior air handler regular a coil evap? I don't need the heat exchanger to work. But my inside unit has a txv. I think regular heat pump systems use fixed orfice?
Thanks for your help you are very knowledgable.
Rick
Yes, if your Carrier unit is rated for R410A and the txv is intended for R410A, the system should work fine.
Will a 2 ton 14 seer heat pump Goodman work with a 4 ton variable speed air handler goodman.split system
In some cases, yes. It will depend on the air handler: if it has a TXV rated for a 2 ton condenser and it has the capability of setting air flow down to around 800 CFM then yes it will work.
When I first bought my house, I get rid of my furnace, evaporator coil, and AC unit. The old unit was from the 60s and wow they was heavy. I let the 2 guys hauled my AC unit for scrape money. I decided to scrape the coil and furnace myself and they was worth the money. I think I know what I'm doing, but I think I got lucky when buying the new units. Yes, they are miss match. I choose a Goodman furnace with 85,500 BTU with the Max CFM of 2000. 2 stage burner with variable speed for comfort. An overkill for 1700FT SQ house. The evaporator is 3 ton and the AC unit is 3 ton with Seer 13 R22 and made by Goodman too. The evaporator look puny with a huge furnace sitting on top of it. If you going by ton on the furnace using BTU, then it's rated at 5 ton and the air handling is 3 - 5 ton for the heating. The fan will be at full blast for the cooling. I'm not sure what this will do with the efficiency rating of the overall system. In the future I do plan to get rid of the AC unit and go with R410A Seer 16 or 18. The coil is rated for R22 and R410A.
Hello, looking at purchasing a 4 Ton revolve air handler quick connect and pairing it with a 3.5 ton guardian outside unit also quick connect. Any issues with this? My research shows this will raise seer raiting on the system? Currently I have a Coleman 3.5 ton outdoor unit and nordyn air handler paired together. It's 15 years old and has cooled and heated excellent. Zone 3 climate zone Tennessee.
I am not familiar with Guardian products, so I don't know if their fittings will work with Revolv. They could work, but we just don't know. To gain higher efficiencies most manufacturers combine larger coils with smaller condensers. Whether the specific units you mention will give higher efficiency is information that is not available.
Hello, Would a 4 ton condenser work with 3.5 ton (6K, 9k, 9k, 12k) mini split evaporators?
It is possible depending on the specific models. The MrCool Olympus Multi 5 condenser is 48,000 btu capacity and the air handlers you specify are available except for the 6K-. The smallest MrCool offers is 9K.
Hi Kyle,
Thanks for making so many useful videos.
I have a Rheem AC system, the part number is 13AJA48A01757. Based on Rheem's part sheet, the 48 here means 48k BTU, which is 4 ton.
Recently the compressor is ground out, I need to replace it. After I check the compressor part number, it is a ZR42K5E from Copeland. 42 here means it only have 42k BTU, which is about 3.5 ton.
So I am confused why there is a mismatch between the compressor itself and the AC system. My technician told me to buy a 4-ton compressor.
Should I buy a 4-ton compressor or should I use the exact same type of compressor even it is only 3.5-ton?
For the past 15 years or so, manufacturers have been increasing the efficiency of their equipment in part by matching larger coils with smaller compressors and still getting the same capacity. It is not unusual to see a 42 compressor in a 48 condenser. The compressor should be replaced with the same model that was in it.
We will be replacing our 16 years old r22 air handler and condenser with new r410 2 ton units for second floor. One of the guys said that "for air handler with hot water coil, you can't use 16 seer condenser because is not going to do the right job, so we'd have to go with 13 seer condenser". I want to install high efficiency AC/heat system and having lowest seer rating doesn't sound the best option for me.
Is that correct or the guy is just truing to use cheaper unit to get me a better price?
Another question: I am a bit handy, is there a set I can purchase and install myself and maybe just use HVAC tech to solder and fill the system with freon?
Current air handler is MagicAire 24-DUX-B-3-3HW, condenser is Train XB12 2TTB2024A1000AA
Thank you
High efficiency condensers require much larger coils to operate properly. If you use the existing coil with a high efficiency condenser, it will not operate at the higher efficiency level. Brazing of evacuation lines and the evacuation requires an experienced technician with the proper equipment. Most manufacturers will not warranty equipment that is not installed by a professional.
I have a 3 ton 410a condenser made by nordyne can it be replaced with something compatible that’s 3 ton or do I need more information on the air handler
More information is always good. Give us a call at 270-575-9595, and we can help you figure out what you need.
I live in a mobile home and am looking at a Mr Cool Universal condenser that is rated 18 SEER and 10 HSPF. Unfortunately, their matching Universal air handler is not downflow compatible, so I have to use their modular coil and blower that is only rated up to 16 SEER and a TXV valve.
My question is do the SEER and HSPF ratings need to match the air handler? And does using a lower rating air handler lower the efficiency of the condenser? And if it does lower the efficiency, are there any compatible downflow air handlers that will match the ratings of, and work with, the Mr Cool Universal condenser unit?
The SEER and HSPF ratings don't necessarily need to match. In terms of how a lower rated air handler affects a higher rated condenser, we could only tell you what the result would be if a particular combination had been AHRI tested. Many downflow air handlers, including Signature Series, would be compatible with a Universal condenser. The Universal condenser is non-communicating, so it can match with most any air handler of appropriate size.
i have a 13 year old bryant ac which the compressor stop working. i brought a new goodman ac condenser will my bryant coil match my goodman outside condenser the bryant coil is a 2 ton my new goodman is a 2.5 ton is it ok to use are they compatible
From what you describe, I really doubt you will be able to make the two work together properly. You may be able to use a TXV on the coil you have (if it is rated for R410A and it is flushed), however the installer will have to properly adjust charge, and it will not produce 2.5 ton capacity.
Was quoted Amana . AMVC96063BNB furnace with CAPF3137B6 Coil with ASX160311 Condensing unit. Can not find on the AHRI website if this is correctly matched. Called Amana and that was useless. The company is not a certified Amana installer but is reputable and claims to install Amana products "all the time". Not sure where to go from here. Thanks.
Amana and Goodman use the same coils with a different label, so compatibility should not be a problem. The installer should be able to get you an AHRI number, so you can look it up yourself.
My mom had a 4 ton Trane then the house had fire damage and had to replace the inside air handler and duct work. The ac guy put in a 5 ton rheem straight air handler but the outside unit was variable speed 4 ton Trane. The guy that put the original unit in said that won’t work but I’ve had 3 other people say that it will work. So who is right?
The 5 ton Rheem air handler will work with MOST 4 ton condensers if the correct metering device for the condenser is used. Since you specify that the condenser is variable speed then perhaps it requires communication to the indoor unit and thermostat. We have no technical data on Trane variable speed equipment so I cannot say if it requires communication or not.
I have a 5 ton furnace system, but never added the condenser. Now seems to be the time to do so, and I am between a 5 ton 19 Seer Trane, or an 14 Seer Evcon. The coil as never been used, so the assumption is the TXV will handle any concerns using 410, even though the system was originally designed for R22. But that's why one recommendation for the Evcon, because of the R22 concerns. But if the coil--the whole system--has never known the presence of R22, should I still avoid the Trane and 410?
If the coil and the TXV are rated for R410A, then you can use R410A equipment. If the system was intended for R22, chances are that TXV will have to be changed in order to use R410A.
I have a 3 ton air handler that's already installed in the Attic there's no outside condenser can I get someone to install a 3 ton 16 seer condenser to the air handler it is not the same brand but My worry is the Seer rating
Could you get someone to do that? Most likely. But if you've already purchased the equipment, there's not a lot an installer could do to affect the SEER rating.
So I have a rental who’s ac has died. The company is recommending a 2.5 ton 16 seer heat pump With a 3 ton air handler. We are in Florida. It is wet here. Is this a moisture thing? Three ton is larger than what’s in there now. It about 1150 sq ft with insulation and impact windows.
You should ask them why they feel that is required. They're working for you, and should be comfortable answering any questions you have. If they have a good reason, they should be able to give it to you. If they don't, I would get a second opinion.
Does the PSI have to match on the condenser and air handler?
No, the PSI shown on the data plate is only the test pressure. It can be different from one unit to another. However, they are generally near the same for the same refrigerant type.
I thought I could send you a pic of my evaporator's info for you to tell me what condensers(? inside unit = air handlers) would match it !
Plop! Kyle.
Get your butt off that chair and help us here!!
Your granny!!
If you send us a picture or information on your evaporator, we will do our best to help you find a match. Thought it might be faster to just call us at 270-575-9595.
I am selling my home. I have a 3 ton, 14 SEER condenser with a installed 4 year old 410 TXV airhandler both installed 7/2017. AC report said that
Inspection AC report said that main unit is mismatched. The indoor unit is 20 years old, 14 Seer condenser, 10 Seer airhandler. Unit has a water leak and low on freon, possibly due to the mismatch with the 1.5 ton unit.
Suggest replacement of indoor main unit to match Freon pressure which is low on Freon due to under rated 20 year old R-22 coil. Cost for new indoor unit $3900.
Also I have a 1.5 ton, 10 SEER, 18 years old. Complete system is in good condition. But because of the age of the uni, t report said unit needs replacement at a cost of $4800 with computer system.
What do you think about this report?
It does sound like you need a new air handler (indoor unit) to properly match with the R410A condenser.
However, if the older unit is still working properly and in good condition, I'm not sure why you would replace it.
Hello Kyle -
I want to replace my A/C condenser and evaporator with a set of new Goodman matched units. My gas heat / air-handler is a Trane 17.5" wide unit and will remain. Is it customary for a new 17.5" Goodman evaporator to properly fit on top of an existing 17.5" Trane gas heat air-handler? Do manufacturers generally have similar dimensions for the same width equipment? Thanks!
Yes, 17.5" is one of the standard widths for coils and furnaces.
Hello,
I have installed an air handler and condenser at my house when I went to run the line set I realized that the air handler connection is 5/8 and the condenser is 3/4. Now I am worried that (after installing) I have a mismatch here. Guy who sold me the units together (after insisting I somehow screwed something up) finally realized I was right about the different sized connections, gave me a reducing coupler to bring the 3/4 line into the 5/8 sweat connection and said it will be fine. Will it?
Sounded like a workaround for his mistake and I want yo make sure the units would work that way before I have a tech weld it and charge it.
Model numbers are as follows: FB4CNF024 and 114CNA024-A
Product numbers fb4cnf024L00EHAA and 114cna024000BAAB
Thanks!
There are many instances where manufacturers will match equipment with different line set connection sizes. As long as the line to the indoor unit is not excessively long (over 50') then you will be fine with the 5/8 suction line.
I have a three-and-a-half ton air handler, rudd, can I match that up with a two and a half ton condenser same brand. ? Thanks ,410a.
In general, if the coil in the air handler has a txv for metering refrigerant, it should work fine.
I have a Bryant Heating and Cooling System. My Bryant Compressor is 19 years old it is no longer working. Can I replace the compressor with a new Lennox Compressor? Would they be compatible? The compressor is on the roof.
We can't say for sure without more equipment details. A good tech would likely be able to get a Lennox condenser (I assume that's what you mean) working with a Bryant air handler. However, there might be performance and warranty reasons why you don't want to do that. The system would not be AHRI rated, so you couldn't take advantage of any efficiency incentives in your area. Also, the warranty coverage would almost certainly be reduced.
Hello. I have a 5ton XR16 Trane Condensing Unit Single Stage R-410A and it was installed with a 5 ton Hyperion Variable Speed Airhandler/Blower. The unit is just not cooling and not performing like my older Variable speed 16 year old model 14i Trane was. I know before I certainly had a variable speed Air handler, but don't know anything about the condensing unit other than it said 14i. Itside my home it worked really good though for 16 years and ramped up and down and was never noisy inside. This new one sounds like a wind tunnel when it is blowing and it starts and stops without any ramping up. The tech lowered the fan speed to remove more humidity, but its not helping much if at all. Why is it not ramping up and down like my old one? I am worried they installed a condensing unit that will not allow this air handler to work properly. Please help. Any advice is appreciated
In general, when a system is not performing properly the technician must go back and check all operational data to see what the problem may be. In your particular case it sounds like the replacement air handler uses a different blower motor than the one you had. However we do not have access to Trane technical information so I cannot say for certain. Your best bet is to follow up with your installer or get a 2nd opinion.
I have a Goodman AR36-1 air handler I need to replace the coils will using r22 will a trade coil fit in the Goodman air handler
In general, a trade coil will not work. Goodman does still offer replacement coils for the AR36-1. Give us a call with the serial number, and we can get you a part number and price.
I have a 2 ton trane condenser and 2 1/2 ton air handler, it has went so I need to replace. I would like to go with 2 1/2 ton condenser, some are giving me a 3 ton variable air handler and others say I have to stay with a 2 1/2 air handler or do new duck work. which one is correct and why?
thanks
Without inspecting your property, it would be hard for us to say exactly why you're getting that kind of feedback or what you actually need. You might need a larger condenser. You might need new duct. Both those things could be true.
I purchased a newly built 1400+ square foot home with very high ceilings in Florida in June 2018. I have my ac serviced every 6 months. I have been having problems with it cooling to 74 degrees and sometimes won’t go below 80 degrees. My ac company came this week and said I have a 2-1/2 ton air handler and 2 ton condenser which is not adequate to cool my house. I checked the cCarrier model numbers and that is correct. Please let me know your thoughts
Thank you
Depending on insulation and other factors, it could definitely be undersized. A 2 ton condenser is usually only sufficient for up to 1200 sf in Florida.
This is great, thanks!
We recently moved into a condo and the heat pump is definitely broken.
2 HVAC guys said we have to get a new heat pump AND air handler.
One guy said he can modify the air handler with a new valve and then it will be compatible with the new heat pump.
He said the air handler might last another 2-5 years if we get lucky (it's from 2011).
Replacing the air handler will be a really big job which we'd like to avoid, if possible.
Any thoughts on this?
What you're describing could be possible. Though it is hard to say without knowing the particular make and model of the equipment.
Hi Sir last June 2019 I had the outside unit dryer filter replaced because a leak the system was empty and the line was opened without closing any check valve. No vacuum was performed only a charge with 410 Freon. Now 9 month later looks like I have compressor failure! The two lines read 90 both of course when it’s on! Does that look like comp failure to you? Is this something not vacuuming can cause?
Sorry to say, Enrique, but it does sound like compressor failure. Pulling a vacuum is used to get moisture out of the lines, since moisture does not mix well with the refrigerant or the oil. That could be the source of the problem. You would need a detailed diagnostic to be certain.
How low to the floor can I mount the airhander?
Technically, you could mount a ductless mini-split air handler quite lower to the floor. You should always leave at least a foot of space to allow for proper airflow. That being said, you will get much better performance the higher on the wall you place the interior unit.