My old a/c compressor died which is 3 phase. Should I install a new 3 phase a/c? What SEER?

Question

Is there a benefit to reinstalling a 3 phase 5 ton compressor? Are three phase a/c compressors more energy efficient? Are they more expensive? What is the appropriate SEER? Our KW cost is about 13 cents and we live in South Texas where it is warm year round. Should we also install a new inside air handler?

Answer 1

If you have three phase power, I would recommend using it, due to the fact that there are less motor components for three phase. The initial cost of the unit may be a little more pricy, but the life cycle costing will more than pay for itself. As far as efficiencies go, as of January 23rd, 2006, the federal governmant has mandated that no A/C manufacturer shall build any a/c with less than a 13 seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). However, units with a SEER rating of less than 13 can still be sold, and they were manufactured before January 23rd. Again, the life cycle costing of a higher efficiency unit will benefit you in the long run, but the answer to your question involves you deciding how long you want to stay at this place, and will it be long enough to reap the rewards of a high efficiency A/C? It is a wise idea to install a new air handler as well, with the upcoming phaseout of R-22.

Answer 2

You did not say what the sq. footage of your home is (I am assuming it is a residence). Most home A/C is single phase and you should have many more choices at lower initial cost. 3 phase is almost always for commercial use here in California. 13 seer is the minimum allowed to be installed now here but your old unit is probably way below that if it is 10 years old or more. Your inside unit will most likely have to be changed also as they are matched to the outside unit. You need to consult a knowledgeable heating and A/C contractor as to what size is best for your sq ft. .. Too large and it cycles too often.. Too small and it will not cool well. Many large homes here use 2 or more separate units which allow for more ability to do zone cooling, especially in 2 story homes.

Answer 3

Three phase Units are more energy efficient. They cost more but pay for them selves in no time. The higher the SEER the better, As for changing the air handler, if you do recommend one with a TXV.

Answer 4

3 Phase is Cheaper to run but compressor cost more to replace.
Did Unit Have A burn Out? if so then you will need a whole new unit 13 SEER is the lowest.

Answer 5

If your old unit is less than 5 years old, contact the manufacturer and see if its still under warranty. Most of them are warrantied for 5 years but the work must be done by a professional. 3 phase is defiantly more energy efficient.