Replace outdoor unit or whole system?

[ktbradl]

The compressor in my heat pump died. The matched air handler is only 6 years old, but it is an R22-based system (Payne). We plan to stay in our house 5-10 more years.

I am considering 2 options: A) replace the outdoor unit with another R22 heat pump (Trane XB13) vs B) replace both the heat pump and air handler with an R410A-based system (Trane XR13 heat pump with Hyperion TAM7 variable speed air handler, 10 year warranty).

Note that replacing only the compressor is not a consideration because it's essentially the same price as a new heat pump.

I would appreciate input on choice A vs B. Thank you!!

[bobboan]

Has it been determined that the I.D. coil is not leaking? I'd confirm that before considering going with a dry R22 unit.

Also, R22 has recently sky-rocketed in price. That's something that must be considered as you look forward to possible future repairs. I also would not mismatch brands with a heat pump. Most manufacturers won't warranty mismatched heat pumps.

I'd recommend going with a new R410a system if your pocketbook will allow since you're gonna be in the house for several more years.

[catmanacman]

I would go with the trane xr13 with the tam7 ,depending on the tonnage some matchups will get 15 seer

[t527ed]

Has it been determined that the I.D. coil is not leaking? I'd confirm that before considering going with a dry R22 unit.

Also, R22 has recently sky-rocketed in price. That's something that must be considered as you look forward to possible future repairs. I also would not mismatch brands with a heat pump. Most manufacturers won't warranty mismatched heat pumps.

I'd recommend going with a new R410a system if your pocketbook will allow since you're gonna be in the house for several more years.

+1 unless you can get a dry R-22 Payne unit that will match up with the air handler i would go with a new R-410 system. :.02:

[ktbradl]

Thanks to all of you for your replies...that's helpful.

[vstech]

at 6 years, is the compressor under warranty?
do you know why the compressor failed? Lightning? dirty filters? oversized system?
I'd want to know EXACTLY why a 6 year old system failed. it'd suck to install a new 410 system and have IT fail in 6 years...

[ktbradl]

@vstech:
Warranty has expired. It looks like the compressor failed as a result of inadequate return airflow to the attic air handler. There was an error when the house was remodeled 6 years ago (prior to me owning it) and one bedroom ended up with no functional registers from the home's main (2nd) HVAC system (heat pump/gas furnace combo). Thus, they added ductwork from the attic air handler to this bedroom. The final result was 6 registers in 3 different rooms, but only one return. The return always vibrated/whistled...working hard! We are going to add a return in the goofed-up bedroom to fix this.

Thanks for your input.