Is the variable speed DC blower motor on the Carrier Infinity 96 gas furnace
worth the premium of $800+ (Cdn) that I've been quoted over Carrier's
Performance 93 unit with the multi-speed AC blower motor?

I understand that the DC blower motor consumes much less electricity than
the AC motor. But if I intend to run the blower at low-speed continuous
only during the heating season, how long would it take me to earn back the
increased cost in electricity savings?

Is the Infinity unit really much quieter in operation than the Performance
unit?

Any other factors I should take into account in deciding whether or not to
splurge on the Infinity?

Any advice anyone can provide would be appreciated.

"Joe Shlabotnick" wrote in message
. ..
Is the variable speed DC blower motor on the Carrier Infinity 96 gas
furnace
worth the premium of $800+ (Cdn) that I've been quoted over Carrier's
Performance 93 unit with the multi-speed AC blower motor?

I understand that the DC blower motor consumes much less electricity than
the AC motor. But if I intend to run the blower at low-speed continuous
only during the heating season, how long would it take me to earn back the
increased cost in electricity savings?

Is the Infinity unit really much quieter in operation than the Performance
unit?

Any other factors I should take into account in deciding whether or not to
splurge on the Infinity?

Any advice anyone can provide would be appreciated.

alt.home.repair

This is the place to ask H-Owners questions.

There are many of us pro's that will answer you over there, as this is a
HVAC/R pro's group.

~kjpro~

Alt.hvac removed from crosspost.

"Joe Shlabotnick" wrote in message
. ..
Is the variable speed DC blower motor on the Carrier Infinity 96 gas
furnace
worth the premium of $800+ (Cdn) that I've been quoted over Carrier's
Performance 93 unit with the multi-speed AC blower motor?

Yep.


I understand that the DC blower motor consumes much less electricity than
the AC motor. But if I intend to run the blower at low-speed continuous
only during the heating season, how long would it take me to earn back the
increased cost in electricity savings?

A long time. Be more concerned about the comfort, humidity control, and
quiet operation.


Is the Infinity unit really much quieter in operation than the Performance
unit?

The VS is much quieter.


Any other factors I should take into account in deciding whether or not to
splurge on the Infinity?

Your contractor should be able to provide you with information and answer
your questions. Visit carrier's website for more specifications on the
models you're looking at.

- Robert


Any advice anyone can provide would be appreciated.

I am getting installed Infitity here in Toronto next week.
From what I found - If you would run blower 24/7 - you would save about 300$
per year comparing to non DC motor. If you will run it just during season -
lets say 6 months, your saving will be 150$. Payback in about 5years
(5x150=750). Of course not that simple, as DC motor replacements (if fails)
would be much more expensive. Also, running motor all year is not a bad
idea, as it constantly mixes air in the house (basement is cold in summer
and takes this air upstairs in bedrooms). It also humidifies and cleans air
when blower ir running.
I was quoted difference in price between these two units at about 600$CA.

I had energy efficiency home inspection done a few days ago, and inspector
told me about Infinity -that she heard just a very good reviews on that unit
from homeowners and installers.





"Joe Shlabotnick" wrote in message
. ..
Is the variable speed DC blower motor on the Carrier Infinity 96 gas
furnace
worth the premium of $800+ (Cdn) that I've been quoted over Carrier's
Performance 93 unit with the multi-speed AC blower motor?

I understand that the DC blower motor consumes much less electricity than
the AC motor. But if I intend to run the blower at low-speed continuous
only during the heating season, how long would it take me to earn back the
increased cost in electricity savings?

Is the Infinity unit really much quieter in operation than the Performance
unit?

Any other factors I should take into account in deciding whether or not to
splurge on the Infinity?

Any advice anyone can provide would be appreciated.

www.gamanet.org

There Gama lists all the test results for the questions you have asked.

TAB Dude

If you use AC and want more humidity removal say it is at 68 outside
and it is raining you can run it on low to remove twice the humidity as
on normal high and not cool as much. You can run it better on Humidistat
at lower outside temps. You save on electric winter and summer. But
it will heat more evenly if that is an issue. Its like getting a fancy
car, more to break, more to repair. Ive calculated heating season
payback at 6 yrs. But get the 10 yr warranty. Also I dont beleive
electric costs to remain stable for 4 yrs thereby increasing payback.