Is Amana split system OK?

[claykin]

I am in need of replacing the 2.5 ton split system in my 900 sq ft condo. I've got a 3/4" and 3/8" line set. The condo is located aout 1/4 mile from the ocean so corrosion is a factor for the condensing unit.

I've had two reputable installers out to offer recommendations and was given similar recommendations.

If I want to go budget, they both recommend Amana 13SEER for about $XXXX installed (this includes all permits and crane cost to hoist condensing unit). This has a single speed air handler.

I've also been given the option for either the Trane XR13 or the XL14i both 14SEER with the variable speed air handler. This option will run me about $XXXXXX more (Including everything except the labor warranty add-on)

This is a second home for my wife and I and we use it occasionally. I'd say most of the time the A/C site at 80 while we're not there. We plan to own the place for at least another 5 years so want a good system, but not necessarily overkill since its not our primary residence.

Under normal circumstances I would have just chosen the Amana and been done with it, but I've been told that the Trane will last longer because the corrosion factor will not kill the condensing unit as quickly as the Amana.

Thoughts? Opinions?

[skippedover]

First, you need to read the rules of this site. No prices allowed. I recommend you edit your post to remove the prices.

When you ask a question along the lines you have, you'll get as many varied opinions as, well, certain body parts. So my recommendation is that if you've found one or more companies that you are comfortable with, why not follow their recommendation? If they've done a heat load analysis on your home, surveyed the duct system to be sure it's properly installed and in good condition, then I'd listen to their recommendations. However, if they just took the info off the old system, wrote and estimate and said, "Have a good day, hope you call back", the I'd suggest getting some additional opinions. You are the only one who can determine what's most important to you. Cost is only one part of the equation. Two stage equipment, variable speed motors, accessories such as electronic air cleaners, ultra-violet lights, dehumidification mode and other attributes of different systems all carry different prices but most beyond the basic are designed for comfort. You are the only one who can decide how much you're willling to pay for additional comfort, if anything. The lowest price I can assure you is NOT the most comfortable system. That's a sure bet. :cool:

[RoBoTeq]

If you see corrosion on other coils in your area, the Trane coil will hold up better. Not all installs close to salt water have corrosion issues. It depends on wind conditions and how well the salt in the air is carried by the winds.

Under normal conditions where salt spray is not directly affecting the unit, the Amana as well as any other aluminum fin/copper tube coil will be just fine.

[claykin]

If you see corrosion on other coils in your area, the Trane coil will hold up better. Not all installs close to salt water have corrosion issues. It depends on wind conditions and how well the salt in the air is carried by the winds.

Under normal conditions where salt spray is not directly affecting the unit, the Amana as well as any other aluminum fin/copper tube coil will be just fine.

I'm in South Florida and corrosion is a huge problem. The 7 year old Rheem condenser has a completely rusted out base. The mounts holding the compressor are nearly gone. The coils themselves have some surface corrosion, but they are not bad. Certainly not when comparing to the housing and the compressor mounts.

In reading the Amana warranty, I notice they specifically exclude corrosion. Not sure, maybe Trane does as well.

[claykin]

First, you need to read the rules of this site. No prices allowed. I recommend you edit your post to remove the prices.

When you ask a question along the lines you have, you'll get as many varied opinions as, well, certain body parts. So my recommendation is that if you've found one or more companies that you are comfortable with, why not follow their recommendation? If they've done a heat load analysis on your home, surveyed the duct system to be sure it's properly installed and in good condition, then I'd listen to their recommendations. However, if they just took the info off the old system, wrote and estimate and said, "Have a good day, hope you call back", the I'd suggest getting some additional opinions. You are the only one who can determine what's most important to you. Cost is only one part of the equation. Two stage equipment, variable speed motors, accessories such as electronic air cleaners, ultra-violet lights, dehumidification mode and other attributes of different systems all carry different prices but most beyond the basic are designed for comfort. You are the only one who can decide how much you're willling to pay for additional comfort, if anything. The lowest price I can assure you is NOT the most comfortable system. That's a sure bet. :cool:

I may make the final decision, but I came to this forum requesting professional guidance, to determine if Amana makes decent systems for a second residence that is located in a corrosive environment and won't be lived in very much (maybe 60 days per year).

I appreciate your suggestions, but I'm only interested in learning about the Amana versus other split systems. I'm not in the market for electronic air cleaners, UV lamps, dehumidification, etc...

[beenthere]

I'd expect the Amana to hold up as well as any other unit on the roof.(excluding the Trane)

As Robo said, you must consider how direct the salt air is hitting the units.

[Kmacdaddy]

As the saying goes its hard to stop a trane and if im not mistaken the trane xl has 10yr warrenty on coils,compressor and parts which might help when you sell home in 5yrs

[classical]

Trane units may very well last longer than other brands in a corrosive environment, then again they may not. I have seen Trane units in Galveston that have fallen apart in kess than 5-years and Goodman and Rhemm units that have lasted for 20-years.

My recommendation is to contact Bronz Glow (I think they are in Hollywood Fla.) and find out who in your area utilizes their system. They may also just treat the Amana unit for your contractor and then he can install it.