We are replacing our 15 yr old 3 ton Trane 10 seer (still works but
not efficient and underpowered) with an American Std 3 1/2 ton heat
pump with variable speed air handler 14 seer. Air handler in the
garage, compressor outside in backyard about a 16 ft. straight line.
The copper used to run underground (straight line); a few years ago we
had a leak and before I had a chance to talk with the repair guys they
ran a 50 ft length around the garage, through the utility room then
out to the back. This has worked but I have always wondered about the
efficiency. Since we are going to the expense of repl the old unit I
am wondering if it would be worth it (does it even matter?) to run a
new line of a much shorter distance 18 - 25 ft depending if we go
underground or above. Does this create a higher load? Thanks - Bill