Need two new complete split systems...in vegas!

[Micahb]

I've done my research into the HVAC world recently as my quotes have varied wildly it has left my mind boggled as what to do. Here we go...

I have 2 3.5 ton split systems-one furnace in the attic for the living areas and one as an upflow for the bedrooms. They are 23 year old Carriers that run R22 on 3/4" suction lines.

I got a Trane quote for the XB13 13 Seer models, they claim I don't need to replace my lineset. They are attractive with the 36 month 0% financing.

Carrier for their base model 13 seer equipment not requiring a lineset change.

Another ac company that does American Standard quoted me for Goodman with the lineset change included.

I like that Goodman and Carrier replacement equipment is easily accessable and cheaper than Trane. I also hear that the Goodman quality has dramatically improved in the recent years.

I'm nervous I'm being sold on equipment that needs a lineset change, but to get my business they are telling me otherwise. I have investigated it on the manufacturer's pages which leads me to believe I'm correct. I don't want to burn out my compressor. I also don't know if my old lineset can handle the 410a pressure not being brazed...any thoughts???

BTW my budget is reflected by the quotes i have listed. Carrier is a little higher than the other two, but I just want to make an informed decision and not regret jumping the gun only to regret it later...I am married and boy would I hear about it later!
Thank you.

[jpsmith1cm]

Micah,

Pricing isn't permitted here.

[Micahb]

Sorry, I misunderstood the rules. I have edited the message.

[Gross]

whenever possible, the lineset SHOULD be changed. However if properly sized and flushed it is possible to reuse the old line set.

Goodman has great warranties...as do trane and carrier. I wouldnt focus on brand as much as I'd focus on the quality, care, and expertise of your installer. They are what makes the difference in performance, life span, and utility savings.

[BaldLoonie]

We prefer to change the lineset too if we can. If it is buried in drywall or otherwise murder to do, we'll flush.

Being Vegas, might it be wise to look above 13 SEER?

[Micahb]

My system was an 8 seer new...23 years ago, so the thought is I'm probably running a 5 seer now. You should see my electric bill! I would move up to a higher seer, but that pushes my budget higher than I'd like.

[beenthere]

Are both systems currently working? Might want to think about doing one system this year, and the other a year or 2 down the road. This would allow you to go slightly higher in SEER, and give time to save up towards the second replacement.

[Micahb]

I'm really don't care about spending so much more for a higher seer, than finding out if the trane xb13 or the base model carrier can run off existing 3/4” suction lines. Does anyone know? Seriously. I can blindly trust these local dealers or go with goodman as I'm apprehensive. I've looked at specs but I'm not a hvac guy...so what do I know? This has been such a scarry purchase, what if I make the wrong choice?

Yes both systems work, no they can't get my house cool here in vegas in the summer...they both have to go asap.

[woody19]

I'm really don't care about spending so much more for a higher seer, than finding out if the trane xb13 or the base model carrier can run off existing 3/4” suction lines. Does anyone know? Seriously. I can blindly trust these local dealers or go with goodman as I'm apprehensive. I've looked at specs but I'm not a hvac guy...so what do I know? This has been such a scarry purchase, what if I make the wrong choice?

Yes both systems work, no they can't get my house cool here in vegas in the summer...they both have to go asap.

Yes, the 3/4 lines set will be ok as long as they flush it good. If the length from outdoor to indoor tubing is longer than 50 ft you would have a 1% loss of capacity but that isnt a huge issue. Personally I would go with the Carrier if, for no other reason, availability of warranty parts. Goodman has improved over the past few years but I still hear horror stories of people trying to deal with warranty issues from them. As was stated, a great deal of how well the system will perform is directly related to how well the system is installed.
The only concern I would have with the existing tubing would be what type of brazing was done all those many years ago. Did they use sil-fos or, as some did in those days, was it just a soft alloy solder type that may not withstand the higher pressures of r410a refrigerant.
Let us know what you decide, we all get curious.

[Micahb]

I pulled the trigger. The carrier quote was just a bit more than I could take, so I'm going with trane...I'll save money with their financing too. I can also afford to upgrade the furnace blower to make it a little more efficient-14 seer. The advice was so helpful, especially the lineset info! I'll look into the brazing/soldiering of the lines.

[Micahb]

Ps, I love this website!

[jpsmith1cm]

AtcherServiceLasVegas

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[surenuff]

In most cases the soldered connections will be cut out when the equipment is replaced. Unless for some reason there will be soldered connections that are left in the tubing, all of the new soldered connections should be fine. Good thing to look into anyway.

[Gross]

Goodman has improved over the past few years but I still hear horror stories of people trying to deal with warranty issues from them.

Really? Goodman pays me for EVERYTHING. heck, the other day they approved $180 bucks to change the fan speed! LOL