Small House / Small HVAC Budget

Losinglouie

For a small new construction project in the mountains, which will get both some snow and some heat but no humidity, what system might you recommend for HVAC? It is 1200 SF, two story, propane or electric operated, and energy effeciency not the main driver. I do not know my R values yet. Thanks. Budget $6,700 installed with all duct work. Thanks a lot! L.L.

HVAC Doc

Depending on your electric rates and any Power Co. rebates, go with a heat pump with electric back up for the "cheaper" of the equipment initial cost. Don't know what your gas rates are around that area but here, it isn't cost effective to do anything less than a 90%+ furnace (on Propane) unless you plan on being in the home less that 5 yrs. Get at least 3 bids from reputable contractors and make sure they do a load calculation to size the equipment and Manual D to size the duct system correctly.

Losinglouie

Thanks for your reply. I will look into the heat pump further. Best wishes, L.L.