Decisions Decisions!

[zoopinator]

I'm in the throes of selecting a replacement A/C system for my home, and need some advice.

House is a 130 year old wood Victorian, two stories, 1100 sf. located in Alexandria, VA. Insulation in walls (new siding) but not throughout attic. (I'm planning on replacing the solar attic fan with an electric-powered fan) and single pane windows. The 14-year old 2-ton Carrier system has finally died. I'm looking for a straight replacement, and have been quoted:

Trane XR13 2-ton 13 SEER (410A coolant)
American Standard Allegiance 13 SEER 2-ton (410A coolant)
Goodman 13 SEER (model not specified)

Price difference between the two is about $700. Trane vendor has 5 year limited warranty on compressor (I thought Trane standard warranty was 10 years on compressor) while AS has 10 year.

I replaced the old furnace in January with a Trane XT80 2-ton system.

What would I get by going with Trane again? Is there any value in "matched" systems or is that already achieved by having the same compressor and coil model?

Goodman makes me uneasy given the comments on this board. All three quotes are from reputable local companies.

?????

[classical]

All three units are good and when properly installed wil provide years of trouble free service.

Discount any negative comments made against Goodman this is a favorite past time of some.

What does bother me is the lack of a model number for the Goodman.

There is no benefit at this level of equipment to worry about matching the A/C equipment and the furnace. If you had an Air Handler and not gas heat then matching brands would be important.

[tigerdunes]

zoo

I don't care for 80% furnaces for your area unless paired with a heat pump. I would stick with Trane or sister company Am Std and purchase a two ton heat pump as well as continue with your upgrade projects.

IMO

[BaldLoonie]

You don't have to have a Trane/A-S product. Key is that the coil matches the outdoor unit.

I'm with tiger, probably would be wise to investigate a dual fuel heat pump.

The XR13 should have a 10 year comp & outdoor coil warranty just like the Allegiance 13. Sounds like the dealer doesn't know his product :confused: