We had a similar situation and didn't want to spend the money to duct
everything and buy central air...we have a log house that would be tough to
run ductwork in. We purchased a Sanyo ductless air conditioning system that
has the compressor situated outside with a blower unit mounted inside. We
could have gotten 2 blower units but settled for 1. Then there are pipes
running between the two for the coolant. Ours is mounted on our main floor
and keeps the entire house cool except for the upstairs bedrooms, but for us
it works great! It has remote control, timers, oscillating flap, etc. It's
definitely not as nice as a whole house central air system but it's quite a
bit less expensive that's for sure...


"scm" wrote in message
...
We're looking to install air conditioning in our home (~1800 sq feet
single story) in southern california.

It has never had AC so all of the duct work will need to be run.

It is an old home and the walls/ceiling are plaster but there is
excellent access to all of the ceilings and some walls via the attic
which has 20' of headroom.

I am in the process of getting bids and would like some help as to
whether what I am being presented with is fair or overpriced. I have no
problem with someone trying to make a living, but I'd like to not be
taken to the cleaners.

It seems as though ALL bids on this home happen to be high (for any type
of service) because of its beach front location.

Bid:

Install 4 ton Carrier 38YRA w/ matching coil/air handler and duct work
(consisting of 10 drops plus a return)
Install thermostat
Carpenter Subcontracter needed to make duct holes in the lathe and
plaster ceiling.

$8400
--------
Is this a fair price?

Thank you for your time.