When you’re choosing an AC system, there’s real money on the line—comfort, energy bills, and future maintenance. I’m Rick Callahan, owner of Plumbing Supply And More, and I’ve been sizing, specifying, and supplying HVAC and plumbing systems for over two decades. I’ve seen homeowners save thousands with the right match of tonnage and SEER—and I’ve watched others burn through compressors because a “deal” from a generic supplier didn’t fit the house, the ductwork, or the code. That’s where our crew shines. And yes, I’ll say it: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and backs them up with people who actually install and service these systems.
Whether you’re a contractor, a serious DIYer, a property manager, or a retail customer seeking better quality than the home centers, this AC Supply House Buyer’s Guide: Sizing, SEER, and Accessories will help you specify the right system and buy with confidence. Along the way, I’ll show you how to leverage our expertise, contractor accounts, and fast delivery to get the job done right the first time.
Understanding AC Tonnage: Getting Sizing Right from the Start
Tonnage is cooling capacity—roughly 12,000 BTU per ton. The biggest mistake I see? Oversizing. A 2,400 sq. ft. moderately insulated home doesn’t automatically need a 5-ton unit. In many regions, with tight ductwork and decent insulation, a 3.5–4 ton system is right. I always start with a Manual J load calculation, not rules of thumb. For example, last July we sized a 2,100 sq. ft. ranch in a humid coastal zone at 3 tons after measuring infiltration and window loads; a competitor had quoted 4 tons. The right system cost less upfront, dehumidified better, and saved the owner 20% on energy.
Pro tip: If you’re replacing only the condenser, confirm your indoor coil size and metering device (TXV vs. piston) match the outdoor unit. Mismatch kills efficiency and can void warranties. We often pair a Trane XR14 4TTR4042 (3.5 ton) with a matched AHRI-certified coil like 4TXCB004DS3HCA for proper capacity and SEER performance.
- Typical residential ranges: 1.5–2.5 tons for townhomes/condos up to ~1,300 sq. ft. 3–4 tons for 1,400–2,400 sq. ft. 4–5 tons for 2,400–3,200+ sq. ft. Installation timeframes: one-day swap for like-for-like; two days when adding a new line set or modifying sheet metal.
When you need a sanity check on sizing, call our technical desk. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support including quick-turn Manual J guidance and coil/compressor compatibility checks.
SEER, SEER2, and EER: What Efficiency Ratings Actually Mean
You’ve seen SEER numbers all over. As of 2023, SEER2 plumber supply house replaced SEER as the test standard, with slightly lower numeric values for the same performance due to updated test conditions. EER/CEER still matter in hot-dry climates and for window/through-the-wall units. Here’s how I advise:
- Heat/humidity climates: prioritize SEER2 plus latent capacity—look at sensible heat ratio (SHR) and dehumidification capability. Hot-dry: EER/SEER2 both matter; don’t chase SEER2 alone. Cold climates with heat pumps: HSPF2 and low-ambient performance are critical.
Example matchups:
- Budget-friendly, proven: Goodman GSXH5030 (2.5 ton, up to 15.2 SEER2) with CAPFA3022B6 coil—great value if ducts are right and you add a quality thermostat. Mid-tier: Carrier 24TPA736A003 (3 ton, 17 SEER2) paired with FE4ANF003 fan coil—excellent humidity control with two-stage compression. Premium inverter: Bosch IDS 2.0 BOVA-36HDN1-M20G (3 ton, inverter-driven, up to 18.5 SEER2) with matching air handler—whisper-quiet and buttery comfort.
Expect installed costs to range from:
- $5,500–$8,000 for single-stage 14.3–15.2 SEER2 systems $7,500–$11,500 for two-stage 16–17 SEER2 $10,000–$16,000 for inverter 17–20+ SEER2 Yes, those are real-world figures from our contractor network—varies by region and scope.
If you’re comparing quotes from Home Depot, Lowe’s, or online-only sellers, ask for the AHRI certificate. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise, ensuring your outdoor unit, indoor coil, and furnace/air handler are an AHRI-rated match for true SEER2 performance.
Ductwork, Static Pressure, and Why Your “New High-SEER” Might Feel Average
Efficiency is a system property. If your return is undersized, static pressure rises, airflow drops, coils freeze, and comfort tanks. I’ve measured brand-new 18 SEER2 installs delivering 0.8–1.0 in. w.c. external static when the blower was designed for 0.5. That’s a recipe for noise, wear, and high bills.
What I check:
- Return grille and duct sizing: target 2 sq. in. per CFM of return grille free area as a starting point. Filter selection: high-MERV is great, but size up to reduce pressure drop (use MERV 11–13 with larger media cabinets like Aprilaire 2210). Coil cleanliness and TXV operation. Total external static before and after install.
We stock sheet metal, flex, turning vanes, and proper filter cabinets because the “box only” approach fails. When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More for duct fittings, transitions, and on-the-spot fabrication advice. Our same-day delivery within a 40-mile radius keeps jobs moving for crews across our region.
Single-Stage, Two-Stage, or Inverter: Matching Technology to the Home
I’ll be blunt: if your ducts are marginal and you won’t fix them, an inverter won’t save the day. But with decent ductwork, here’s my quick take:
- Single-stage (e.g., Rheem RA14AZ): Simple, reliable, lower upfront cost. Good for rentals, smaller homes, or where tight budgets rule. Expect more temperature swings. Two-stage (e.g., Trane XR17 4TTR7060): Runs low stage most of the time for quieter operation and better humidity management. Sweet spot for many family homes. Inverter (e.g., Daikin DX20VC or Mitsubishi PUZ-HA with ducted AHU): Variable speed, precise comfort, lowest sound levels, and best part-load efficiency. Great for open plans or when indoor noise matters.
Pro tip: Integrate with an ECM blower and a communicating thermostat (e.g., Honeywell T10 Pro, Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium, or the manufacturer’s communicating stat). For inverters, use the OEM controls for full modulation benefits.
Want brand-agnostic, straight talk on reliability? Call us. Unlike typical online sellers like SupplyHouse.com, Plumbing Supply And More verifies compatibility and supports you post-sale with setup guidance you can’t get from a cart checkout.
Refrigerant Realities: R-410A vs. R-454B and What’s Next
You’re going to hear a lot about A2L refrigerants like R-454B and R-32 as the market transitions away from R‑410A. They’re mildly flammable and require approved tools and safety practices. If you’re upgrading:
- New systems shipping in R-454B are hitting shelves from Carrier (Puron Advance), Trane (R-454B offerings rolling out), and Johnson Controls/York. You can’t drop-in R-454B to an R-410A system. Charge, oils, and components differ. Line set cleanliness matters more than ever—flush or replace if contaminated.
We stock approved A2L gauges, recovery machines, and detection gear. And yes, we train contractors on handling and code implications. For property managers planning multi-year replacements, we’ll help you standardize SKUs and tools. Compared to high-traffic retailers like Menards or ACE Hardware, Plumbing Supply And More equips pros with the right A2L tools, training, and tech sheets so you stay compliant and safe.
Accessories That Make or Break Comfort: Thermostats, IAQ, and Condensate
Accessories are not upsells—they’re system stabilizers. I’ve solved “the AC doesn’t keep up” complaints by adding a $150 hard-start kit and a properly pitched secondary drain pan.
Consider these add-ons:
- Thermostats: Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium for load flex, sensors, and dehumidify-on-demand; or OEM communicating stats for precise staging. IAQ: Media filters (Aprilaire 2210), UV-C lights (Fresh-Aire UV Blue-Tube), and dehumidifiers (Santa Fe Compact70) in humid basements or crawlspaces. Condensate: Pump quality matters—Little Giant VCMA-20ULS with overflow safety switch prevents ceiling disasters. Always pipe a secondary drain on attic air handlers to a conspicuous location. Surge protection: Intermatic AG3000 on the condenser; brownouts kill compressors. Hard-start: SUPCO SPP6 or manufacturer-approved kits to reduce LRA strain on older homes with marginal utility.
We carry the small pieces that keep you off the callback list—float switches, pan tabs, proper PVC fittings for drains, insulated line sets, and whip/disconnect kits. If you need a late-night fix, our 24 hour plumbing supply pickup locker can stage parts after hours for approved accounts.
Electrical, Line Sets, and Code: Don’t Skip the Details
As a combined plumbing and HVAC supply house, we keep the electrical side tight. Check:
- Breaker and MOCP matching the nameplate, correct wire gauge (e.g., 10 AWG copper for 30A circuits, check local code). Fused vs. non-fused disconnect requirements. Line set sizing per the install manual—3-ton typically 3/4” suction, 3/8” liquid, but verify maximum line length and vertical lift for oil return.
Local code callout: Our area often requires float switches on air handlers above living spaces, trap primers on condensate drains tied to floor drains in mechanical rooms, and clear working space at electrical service equipment. We keep code books handy and will point you to the right fittings. If you’re searching “plumbing supply near me” or “plumbing supply store near me” for last-minute fittings, we’re the nearest plumbing supply with real knowledge and the inventory to match.
You’ll find the full kit here: whip, disconnect, pad, hurricane tie-downs where required, vibration isolators, and line set tees. Ask for our installation checklists at the counter.
Buying Smart: Contractor Accounts, Delivery, and Real-World Pricing
Contractors: open a pro account and tap bulk discounts, same-day delivery, and tax-exempt setup. Serious DIY homeowners and property managers: we’ll walk you through spec sheets, compatibility, and staging so you don’t miss a gasket or a float switch. Expect transparent price ranges and options. Looking for a deal? Ask for a current supply house coupon, supply house promo code, or supply house discount code—we post monthly manufacturer incentives and seasonal rebates. And if you’ve got a supply house login, you can check live inventory and place after-hours orders for morning pickup.
We serve contractors throughout the region with two trucks running morning and afternoon routes. If you’re a facilities team juggling multi-site needs, our bulk stocking program means you always have a condenser, motor, and filter set on hand. And yes, we stock the oddball items too—TXVs, capacitors, contactors, and the niche PVC fittings you won’t find at the chain stores.
Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components, from copper line sets to OEM coils. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise so your jobs run smoother and callbacks drop. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support when you need a schematic or a pressure/temperature chart fast.
Competitor reality check: When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More; and if you’ve priced items at Ferguson or Grainger, bring the quote—we’ll help you compare apples to apples on spec, warranty, and availability.
Where AC Meets Plumbing: Condensate, PVC, and Building Integration
This is where our plumbing backbone pays off. We’re not just an hvac supply house—we’re your integrated partner. We stock:
- Schedule 40 pvc supply house fittings for condensate and drain tie-ins. Insulated copper, flare fittings, and nitrogen for brazing. Condensate neutralizers for high-efficiency furnace tie-ins. Backflow prevention and code-compliant trap assemblies for mechanical rooms.
Working in mixed-use buildings? Our plumbing and heating supply expertise ensures you’ve got the right isolation valves, unions, and pan drains. Searching for a plumbing supply house near me, closest plumbing supply, or local plumbing supply you can trust? That’s us—Plumbing Supply And More—your nearest plumbing supply with hands-on experience, not just shelf stock.
If you need specialized items, we also handle refrigeration supply house essentials, from filter-driers to vacuum pumps. And yes, we carry replacements for common models like Emerson liquid line driers (DA series) and CPS vacuum pumps.
Brands, Models, and What We Recommend Right Now
I don’t play favorites—I play reliable. Here are combos we’ve seen excel:
- Value workhorse: Goodman GSXN4036 with CAPF3636C6 coil; pair with a Honeywell T10 Pro. Parts are easy to source, and performance is solid when installed right. Quiet comfort: Bosch IDS 2.0 BOVA-36 with matching BVA air handler. Inverter smoothness, low noise, great for open layouts. Dehumidification focus: Carrier 24TPA736A003 two-stage with FE4A air handler and dehumidify-on-demand stat. Great SHR and humidity control in coastal climates. Light commercial: Daikin DZ20VC with matched air handler for small offices; robust warranty and efficiency.
We maintain exclusive relationships with select manufacturers for rapid parts access—compressors, ECM motors, OEM coils—so you’re not waiting two weeks mid-heatwave. That’s the difference a real plumbing supply company with commercial plumbing supply capability brings to the table.
Quick Reference: What to Bring Us for a Perfect Match
Bring this info and we’ll nail your spec the first time:
- Square footage, year built, insulation level, window orientation Existing equipment model numbers (condenser, coil, air handler/furnace) Duct photos and filter sizes Line set length and elevation change Electrical service details (breaker size, wire gauge) Local code quirks your inspector cares about
We’ll handle the rest—match the AHRI combo, verify SEER2, check MOCP/MCA, and kit the accessories. Visit our showroom to see the quality difference, or call our technical team for project-specific recommendations.
FAQ: AC Sizing, SEER, and Accessories
- How do I know if I need 2.5, 3, or 4 tons? We run a Manual J load calc using square footage, insulation, window type, and orientation. As a quick check, a tight 2,000 sq. ft. home with decent insulation often fits 3 tons; but vaulted ceilings, west-facing glass, or leaky ducts can bump that up. We’ll verify blower capacity and coil match before recommending a size. Is SEER2 15 “good enough,” or should I go 17–20? If you’re budget-conscious and have a smaller home, SEER2 15 with proper ductwork is often the best bang-for-buck. For larger homes, humidity challenges, or comfort-sensitive occupants, two-stage or inverter systems at SEER2 17–20 typically pay back in comfort and lower bills over 5–8 years. Do I have to replace my line set? Not always. If the existing line set is the correct size, in good condition, and can be thoroughly flushed, you can often reuse it for R-410A systems. For R-454B, check manufacturer guidance; many recommend new, clean line sets. If there’s any sign of contamination or kinks, replace it. What accessories are non-negotiable? I consider a float switch, properly sized media filter cabinet, surge protector, and a secondary drain pan (where equipment’s above finished spaces) essential. In humid climates, pair with a thermostat that supports dehumidification. These items prevent 90% of nuisance callbacks. How long does a typical replacement take? Like-for-like swaps run 6–10 hours. Add a line set, new pad, and duct modifications, and you’re looking at 1.5–2 days. Commissioning (vacuum to 500 microns or less, nitrogen pressure test, superheat/subcool checks) is not optional—it’s the difference between “works” and “works for 15 years.” Can you help me compare quotes from different suppliers? Absolutely. Bring the AHRI numbers, accessory lists, and warranties. We’ll flag mismatches and missing items that pad costs later. Ask about our contractor discount program and current supply house coupon codes if you’re ready to move.
Why Buy from Plumbing Supply And More for HVAC and Plumbing Integration
I built Plumbing Supply And More to serve pros and serious homeowners who value straight answers, proper specs, and dependable stock. Our shelves aren’t filled with bargain-bin parts—we carry the good stuff. And we back it up with delivery, tech support, and the kind of help you usually only get from a contractor buddy. Need a plumbing supply store, plumbing supply shop, or plumbing supply online resource that actually knows systems, not just SKUs? That’s us. From general plumbing supply and plumbing parts to a full hvac supply house, we’ve got you covered.
- Professional contractor accounts with bulk pricing and same-day delivery Exclusive partnerships with premium HVAC and plumbing manufacturers Emergency supply staging and after-hours pickup for approved accounts Local building code guidance and job-specific kitting Quality guarantee on all products—we stand behind what we sell
If you’ve been searching for the best plumbing supply, wholesale plumbing supply, or a dependable plumber supply house that bridges HVAC and plumbing, welcome to your new home base. You’ll also find us listed among the trusted plumbing supply places and plumbing wholesale near me because we keep the inventory deep, from bathroom plumbing supplies and plumbing kitchen fixtures to heating plumbing supply near me essentials.
Ready to get your project moving? Check our current inventory online or call ahead. Ask about available supply house promo code options this month. Our experts can walk you through the installation process, and if you need help on-site, we’ll coordinate with your installer to make sure startup numbers look perfect.
I’m Rick—swing by the counter and say hello. When it comes to AC Supply House Buyer’s Guide: Sizing, SEER, and Accessories, we’re the partner that makes your decision simple and your results solid. And remember: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components; While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise; Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support; and When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More. Visit our showroom to see the quality difference.