Hi experts,

I have a 3.5 ton WaterFurnace Split attached to a Hi-Velocity blower unit. I've had nothing but problems since the installation 3 years ago. The problem is in the summer during cooling season. I think I know what the problem is, but not sure if that is truely the problem, or just a waste of parts. The installer basically didn't understand the system, installed it and basically left me stranded with it. He's since gone out of business. The problem is the following:

On installation, I noticed he installed a R-22 coil in the blower with it's own TX Valve in it, yet the WaterFurnace is R410 and it also had it's own TX Valve. Most people said it wouldn't do anything if I left the R22 there, but then Hi-Velocity told me I had to replace the TX vlave in their unit with a R410 or the warranty would be void. The supplied the new TX R410 at no charge. Anyways, tracked down someone who could change the R22 to a R410 valve and it was done.

Now, during the summer months, my coil freezes during high temps outside. I've tried everthing from chocking the flow of water from the well to create more heat in the water and basically making it less efficient. I've also tried cranking up the blower with more air flow. Another option I used was removing the 2nd stage compressor. All without any success.

All service repair men I have called basically don't know or understand the Hi-Velocity system, so they don't want to touch it. I'm borderline of simply shutting down the system for summers.

Can anyone help me with any ideas at this point?

Thanks

Hi-Velocity heat pumps are very unforgiving of air flow issues and correct design is a must. Not enough supply runs are the most common problem.

Any tech able to fog a mirror ought to be able to verify charge, airflow, and superheat. All 3 measurements are relevant to any heat pump or AC, not just geo.

That you've both raised airflow and eliminated 2nd stage operation leads me to lean more toward under charge, badly adjusted TXV or restriction in a refrigerant line. Understand that diagnostic accuracy over the internet is little better than guesswork.

cybereagle,

Unfortunately, without being present at the unit, we are unable to determine what the issue might be. We would suggest having your contractor contact our technical support staff, as we will be more than happy to assist in finding a resolution.

WaterFurnace International, Inc.