Replies

1. 
   Mongo_ | Jul 16, 2000 01:26am | #1

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   Probably the most common way to add AC to a house with hydronic heating is by the installation of a < Obsolete Link > Unico, < Obsolete Link > Spacepak, or < Obsolete Link > Hi-V type of setup.

   The systems work (I've not used Hi-V but others here have vouched for it) and, to me, are the easiest way to retrofit a house for central AC. Here's a < Obsolete Link > previous discussion regarding the hi-velocity systems.

   If you have access, you could run a standard sheet-metal duct delivery system, but it does take up much more space than the 2" duct used by the hi velocity systems previously mentioned.

   If you're trying to cool your house via cold water through the baseboards, it's near impossible to get the cooling BTU's out of baseboards. Plus you'd likely have mini-floods from the condensate dripping off the baseboards.

   There have been a few discussions regarding the < Obsolete Link > split ductless systems, but I'm not familiar enough to offer comment on those.

1. 
   Steve_Hansen | Jul 16, 2000 09:40pm | #2

   *Doug,Running chilled water through your lines is a bad idea. The water in the air will condense on your floor! As Mongo recommends, you will need a system that distributes cooled air. Running the system a few minutes an hour during the winter will improve air quality. If your house is very tight you should consider picking up outside air through an air to air heat exchanger. Steve

2. 
   Doug_Baze | Jul 16, 2000 09:40pm | #3

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   I have a house that is was built in 1978 with hydronic heating. What is the best way to add a/c to this house? it is 2levels plus a finished basement. Is there a chiller system or something that can be added to the system in the summer? any help would be appreciated. Thanks.