What's better, a split system central heating and air conditioner or a packaged rooftop unit?

Question

We have always cooled our home with the refridgerated window units, well now that we were finally going to get a central heating and cooling unit, our plumber tells us their are options. We can either get the standard split system unit, which apparently if it freezes can leek? to a packaged rooftop unit, which is cheaper but sightly. I've been trying to compare them online, other than it being an eyesore, it sounds like it does the job. Does anyone out there use the packaged rooftop units, if so, how's it working for you? any input would be GREATLY appreciated!

Answer 1

A self contained package unit is superior in the ease of maintenance and installation.You just have to have a place for it,structure issues,a crane to get it up there,etc.

Problems can occur periodically with all of them though but

if you can make it work,get a rt unit.

EDIT:They also can be placed on the ground and with a side discharge the duct could be designed to enter the side of your home as opposed to the roof ,if applicable.

Answer 2

the more things on the roof t me is just another thing to maintain or it will leak etc.I have a standard unit like most people with no complaints.

Answer 3

I work for a heating company, and the only time we use combination outdoor units is when there is not enough space inside the house for the furnace and/or coil.  Generally speaking, the manufacturer's warranty is shorter on the combo units than on a split system, not to mention they look hideous in your yard. But they are generally cheaper than the split system.

I also think you may have misunderstood what he meant when he said the split system can leak if it freezes.  What he means is that if you develop a leak in the system (either in the evaporator coil or the refrigerant lineset), the unit will freeze up.  It's not that the unit outside will freeze during the winter, then subsequently leak.  Those units are designed to be outside year round in all types of climates.  This is an issue you should only have to worry about when the system starts getting older (15-20 years) as it is rare for this to occur on newer units.

The other thing you need to consider is that when your outdoor unit breaks down and needs to be replaced, you will have to replace the entire system again.  If the split system breaks down, you will have the option to only replace the part that has broken down (ie; condensor, evaporator coil, or furnace).   If your AC breaks down after 10 years, you may still get another 10-15 years out of the furnace, possibly saving you that cost in the future.