Rheem Package Unit questions

[Valley Guy]

I am replacing my still functioning 3.5 ton package unit that I has been running with the same compressor for 30 years. Living in a hot part of California I figure I am just pushing my luck and do not want to have a dead unit during 100+ weather. To my HVAC contractors credit he is not pushing me to do the swap out, but of course he does not know how much longer the compressor has.

Few questions should a Rheem RRPL-B 14 SEER (410A) be quieter than the old unit? I am not sure of the manufacturer I think Day and Night. The Rheem is rated a 76db. Seems a little on the loud side, but since it will be on the roof is that a big deal?

Where is the RRPL model in the Rheem line? Is it worth buying stainless steel heat exchanger option?

Thanks........

[BaldLoonie]

We put in a 2 ton Rheem gas pack last week. Couldn't hear the compressor but the fan was a bit noisy. Probably what you will hear. 7.6 is pretty typical or average.

The stainless option probably isn't as critical in a dry climate like it is in a humid climate. On a gas pack, the coil is in the return so the HX is cold in the summer. Humid outside air gets into the heat exchanger and condenses causing a lot of rust. That's why they don't hold up and now mfrs. are offering stainless steel.

Nice unit, middle of the line.

[sammy37]

I have found that some of the new scroll units resonate a little more sound through the roof of a house, even when using iso pads. Seems like the old recips vibrate alot less.
The are some package gas units that also have the heat exchanger mounted before the coil which would avoid the condensation issue on the heat exchanger.

[Valley Guy]

Thanks for the information. Yeah it is dry here, I do not think humidity is any issue.