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HVAC Split System — Residential (14-18 SEER2 Heat Pump or AC)

Updated Mar 25, 2026
Standard residential HVAC: outdoor condenser + indoor air handler/furnace. 14 SEER2 minimum (DOE 2023). Heat pump or AC with gas furnace. Sizes: 1.5-5 tons. Typical installed cost $5,000-$15,000 for replacement.

Residential split system HVAC is the dominant heating/cooling solution for US homes. Components: outdoor condensing unit + indoor evaporator coil with either electric air handler (heat pump) or gas furnace (AC + heat). Sizing: 1 ton per 400-600 sf (rule of thumb — actual sizing requires Manual J load calculation per ACCA). Minimum efficiency (DOE 2023): 14 SEER2 for AC, 15 SEER2 for heat pump in southern states. ENERGY STAR: 16+ SEER2. Refrigerant: R-410A being phased out, R-454B (Puron Advance) replacing. Ductwork: sized per Manual D. Return air: one per floor minimum. Condensate drain: required with trap and secondary drain or float switch. Electrical: dedicated 240V circuit for condenser, 120V for thermostat. Clearances: 24 inches around outdoor unit. Manufacturers: Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Rheem, Goodman, Daikin. Permit required. Inspection: rough HVAC + final HVAC. Lead time: 1-3 days for standard equipment, 2-4 weeks for high-efficiency.

TAGS
hvacsplit-systemheat-pumpair-conditioningseerresidentialcsi-23
DETAILS
csi division
23 - HVAC
environmental
{"energy_star_eligible":true,"sustainability_grade":"B"}
material class
hvac_equipment
cost benchmarks
[{"date":"2025-Q4","unit":"SYSTEM","region":"us_national","cost_low":5000,"cost_mid":9000,"cost_high":15000}]
physical properties
{"seer2_min":14,"refrigerant":"R-410A/R-454B","capacity_range_tons":"1.5-5"}
applicable standards
["AHRI 210/240","DOE 10 CFR 430","ACCA Manual J/S/D"]
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