Replacing Carrier A/C system with new Bryant unit - difference in models?

[Gifty74]

Our evap coil in our 9 yr old Carrier A/C system (new with house) is leaking so instead of taking a chance of putting on a R22 coil and then having the outside go in another year and having to replace the whole system then, we'll just do the whole thing now.

The installer is a certified Bryant installer. We are going to be replacing a 10 SEER Carrier unit with a 16 SEER Bryant Legacy. I was looking on Bryant's website, and it doesn't look like there is much of a difference at all between their low end line (Legacy) and the mid-grade line. I got quotes for both, but not sure why we would go with the mid-grade when everything (aside from a "special" weather paint) looks pretty much the same. Aren't I correct in assuming if we get a 16 SEER unit that's Energy Star compliant, that getting the next step up is kind of a waste of money? Both have same 10 yr warranty.

Anything else I need to question the installer about, when doing this replacement on existing line set? He already said he needs to flush the lines to convert to the new 410A refrigerant. Anything else that I need to check with him on?

[BaldLoonie]

If you are expecting 16 SEER, you'd need a matching Bryant indoor unit with high efficiency blower motor.

The Legacy is usually bare bones. The next step up up usually has extras like high & low pressure switches to protect the compressor, extra sound dampening methods, cabinet protecting the coil from kids, dogs, lawn care tools...

[Gifty74]

I know it's the lower end model too, but it has the same efficiency rating, and has the same 10 year warranty. So even if the quality isn't quite as good, or it doesn't have dual valves or whatever, if something fails it will be replaced under the warranty. Aside from guarding that was mentioned above (which doesn't factor in my situation) and maybe a little sound deadening (they both are listed at the same dB on Bryant's website) I'm just not sure it's worth the extra $1,000 in my situation.

[Gifty74]

Not sure? I know my local electric company will give a $300 rebate for going from a 10 to a 16 SEER (which I am). A Bryant rebate would be a bonus! Email addresses are not permitted in post. Please put it in your profile, thank you.

[wahoo]

Gifty, many times the cost of the "free rebate" from a manufacturer is actually shared by the participating contractor, so your chances of getting the same quoted price from another contractor WITH the rebate included are pretty slim. But can't hurt to find out. Good luck. (Sorry to burst your bubble, but many Bryant dealers won't participate due to the cost to them, which SOMEBODY has to pay for). In fact, did you notice what happened to the retail cost of new cars when they all went to "free rebates"??? When you hear free, think of a large green pickle......I'll leave the rest to you.:gah:

[BaldLoonie]

As I said, getting 16 SEER and a rebate requires a matching Bryant high efficiency blower inside. If you are just replacing the A/C, you won't qualify, legally anyway.

[catmanacman]

looks can be deceiving

[Gifty74]

So should I just ask my installer to put in a Bryant blower? I wonder how much that will add to my costs. Understand you can't give prices out in the forum, but don't think a blower would be too expansive compared to the other equipment. Or, are the high efficiency blowers pretty expensive. If its more than the $300 rebate than why bother right?

[BaldLoonie]

Do you have a gas furnace now? Electric? How old?

[Gifty74]

Yes, gas furnace. Original with home built in 2003.

[BaldLoonie]

Unless you are going to replace the gas furnace, which probably doesn't make sense, buying a 16 SEER unit with current furnace will not get you 16 SEER and a rebate. Likely best you'll get from it is 14.