Short Version
I called LaCounte and iAirServices to fix a new install job by another company that went horribly wrong.
They were professional, thorough, detail oriented and fixed everything that was not right with the previous install. They were able to make the temperature 5 to 6 degrees cooler, make everything nice and up to code, and significantly reduce the static pressure.
If you are thinking of getting a new AC call these guys. They pay 100% attention to detail and will make sure it is done right to the specs of manufactures installation guide. There is a major difference between having a single AC technician installing your unit vs and installation crew where people are specialized. You will not have to worry about your install being done correctly.
They might be a tad bit more expensive, but I assure you that investment will go a long way in having your unit installed correctly and having ZERO corners cut.
We scheduled and they came out did the following (and probably more) :
1) Increase the return plenum for proper rebound zone.
2) Increase the supply plenum from 4' with a terrible workman ship to 8' with something picture worthy. Note: having a larger supply plenum is important part of duct design and helps with air flow.
3) Increase a return duct size to get appropriate return air,
4) Straighten existing duct work to remove restrictions.
5) Install furnace and evaporator coil per instructions. This is where they fixed specifically what the instructions said not to do which was done incorrectly by original installer.
6) Fix the electrical wiring outside to meet code.
7) Fixed the low voltage wiring to the outside unit that had the protective insulation worn off. This probably saved me an electrical short and thousands of dollars of damage a year or so down the road.
8) Sealed/glue the condensate pvc drain line. Seriously, the original installer did not even do this?
9) Moved the air scrubber to the supply side of the unit so I will work more effectively.
10) Remove all refrigerant, vacuum, pressure test and retest the unit to make sure there was nothing bad in the line.
11) Fixed furnace exhaust pipe to go to the right direction.
12) Fixed furnace exhaust to go to correct size outlet.
At the end of the day the static pressure decreased from 1.4 to .9 and a 5-6 degree temperature drop but LaCounte wants the static pressure number better/lower. So they are going to come back and increase some of the supply ducts in our bedroom and living room because they are undersized and are not getting appropriate air to them.
The crew itself fast, efficient, courteous, meticulous, and cared about the craftsmanship. Heck, they even vacuumed up in the attic. Yup - that is right. They cleaned up after themselves very well and even cleaned up their mess in the attic.
These guys are installation artists. LaCounte, his crew, and iAirServices care about quality and will not cut corners. If you need a new AC, call them. You will know that everything will be done right and if something isn't 100% right they will fix it. And they will be transparent... LaCounte said he is not happy with the static pressure number and they will come back to fix it by increasing duct size.
If you purchase a new AC system, say a 16 SEER, and the install job is so terrible like mine was, it does not operate at 16 Seer. TBH, I would be lucky if the original installation were as effective as a 11 or 12 seer unit.
I am curious to see how this system will handle a 15 degree day, but I suspect it will do quite well. I am lucky to have found these guys to help get us out of a mess. Learn from my mistake and call them first.
I'm having trouble posting the long review as the character limit was too long....I need to figure out a way around this. read more