"bucholtz-gmail-com" wrote in message
oups.com...
Basics:

Have an oversized AC unit causing a humidity problem. I have been
given many suggestions for fixing, but would like feedback on the
different options.


Solutions:

After talking with different HVAC contractors about the problem, I have
been given three suggestions. Before throwing good money after bad, I
would like input on the validity of the suggested fixes. In addition,
if there are any other fixes that could work, please let me know.

Suggestion 1: Replace unit with proper sized unit

This solution is "the proper way" to fix the problem, and was how
it should have been handled in the first place. However, I am being
told that everything needs to be replaced, including ductwork to
account for differences in blower motor output of the smaller unit. I
have been told that the duct work pressures will be different and that
everything needs to be sized according to the system as a whole. Is
this true?

Since all our new drywall will need to be ripped up to install new duct
work, I would hate to have to go down this path.

Why would you need to rip out all the ducts? If you have loose ducts in the
crawlspace above the ceiling, why not just replace those with smaller ducts,
leaving everything that's encased in walls and such alone? Or, put some
kind of flow restrictors behind the registers.

Suggestion 2: Change size of compressor

Is this really an option??? One contractor said I could just put in a
lower rated compressor, but I am skeptical of this solution. I have
been reading other posts on the news group, and it sounds to me like
the blower will still be moving air at the same rate over the coils,
and that this may still leave my house humid since the moving air will
have less contact with the coils. Is this true?

I wouldn't monkey with the actual design of the unit. What if, 10 years
down the line, you need to have work done on it, and the contractor doesn't
know about the modifications?

Suggestion 3: Install central dehumidification

This seems logical; with the only issues being the unit will run less
efficiently since it would still short cycle, causing stress to
controls, motor, etc. Additionally, I will be paying electricity for a
dehumidifier to run on top of my AC. On the plus side, we will get
humidity control year round, even when too cool for AC. Are there any
other caveats to this approach?

If you have humidity problems year round, this is probably a smart move
regardless.

Pagan