I am in a similar situation right now, and I have also called for the services of an HVAC company as I do not know anything about it. The HVAC guys told me that I also need to cut a 3.5" hole in my top plate. So, I have precisely the same question as you, if the code says I can't cut more than half the wood out without some metal reinforcement, should I actually do it? How have you done it? Man, construction is such a nervous and anxious thing. I did not even think that I would get that worried about it. We have to move out of the current house in less than four months, but our new home is not even close to being ready. Before we move out, I have to call for a good
air conditioner chemical overhaul company as we will take the air conditioners with us and I want them to be clean and blowing fresh air when we will be in the new house.
