What's the better heat pump system?

[Suburban Father]

I'm in the process of replacing a 20+ year old heat pump. I have 2 estimates from 2 reasonably reputable dealers. One estimate is for a Trane system (condenser 4TWR5048; handler 4TEE3F65) and the other is a very competetive bid for a Carrier system (condenser 25HPA548003; handler FV4BNB006T00). Both dealers have good reputations in my area and have been in business for several years and they've both provided systems in my neighborhood with good reports from the owners, so I'm not necessarily concerned about the "fly-by-night" factor regarding dependability; I'm just looking for help with deciding which is the best system. Thanks for your time.

[bullmoose]

Both are good systems. Compare warranties, and specs for each, and question everything.

[sgraefe]

From my experience, either one will do you well. They will both have their subtle quirks. Not saying problems, just quirks. For me it boils down more to the Contractor. Who will be better able to provide service after the sale. If you have an existing repore with a service provider, its better to stick with them than pinch a penny. They are more likley to exceed your expectations as they know you are with them.

[kytech77]

From my experience, either one will do you well. They will both have their subtle quirks. Not saying problems, just quirks. For me it boils down more to the Contractor. Who will be better able to provide service after the sale. If you have an existing repore with a service provider, its better to stick with them than pinch a penny. They are more likley to exceed your expectations as they know you are with them.

definitely compare warranties

[aintitfun]

I would go with Ruud/Rheem. They have the highest HSPF of any manufacturer. Take a look: http://ruud.com/Products/Heating_and_Cooling/Heat_Pumps/

[beenthere]

York has models that reach 10 HSPF.(YZH line)

How high do the Rheems have?

[aintitfun]

York has models that reach 10 HSPF.(YZH line)

How high do the Rheems have?

Where can I find that info? All I am seeing is yorks 18 seer only achieves 9.4 HSPF, and Rheem's 16 seer has 9.8 HSPF

[beenthere]

YZH03611 with MV16C blower and FC/MC48C coil. is 10HSPF
The 4 ton reaches 9.8 on some matches.
9.3 tops for the 5 ton. 9.8 max for the 2 ton.

Down load the tech specs for the Afinity 8T series/YZH

That will give you all the performance data for all listed matches. Including COP for temps down to 10°F

If you need. I can email a copy to you.

[aintitfun]

No, I think I found it, It is interesting though, how the 18 seer York, almost mirrors the 16 seer Rheem though.

[aintitfun]

I will have to do some checking on specific matches for the Rheem. I was trying to look up the Trane unit he listed, but I cant find it, was just curious what its HSPF was.

[beenthere]

No, I think I found it, It is interesting though, how the 18 seer York, almost mirrors the 16 seer Rheem though.

Or is it strange how the Rheem unit tries to mirror the York unit. :D

[aintitfun]

Or is it strange how the Rheem unit tries to mirror the York unit. :D

:argue:

[SBKold]

One thing that noone ever compares is service parts cost. Price a Service Evap Coil for your new system i bet its almost as much as the whole air handler costs. Trane parts cost more. Carriers not a whole lot better but should have better warranty. Is Trane 10yrs all parts?

[beenthere]

Trane is 10 years all parts.

[SBKold]

Trane is 10 years all parts.

Ok well at least your set for 10 years. But after that.>>>>Goodman

[aintitfun]

Looks like the carrier system may have "Up To" 8.5 HSPF

[gary_g]

Trane system (condenser 4TWR5048; handler 4TEE3F65) and the other is a very competetive bid for a Carrier system (condenser 25HPA548003; handler FV4BNB006T00).

Trane:
AHRI Reference# 3514632.
48,000 btu cooling, 15 SEER, 12.5 EER, 8.5 HSPF, 46,000 btu heating at 47F, 30,000 btu heating at 17F

Carrier:
AHRI Reference# 3258921.
48,000 btu cooling, 15.5 SEER, 13 EER, 8.7 HSPF, 47,000 btu heating at 47F, 29,400 btu heating at 17F.

The Carrier has slightly better performance numbers.

Both systems qualify for the $1500 Fed Tax Credit.

Take care.

[troutfly]

Trane.Just a suggestion,like I would suggest you pull the cord when skydiving.....

[bwalley]

I would go with the Trane unit.

[aintitfun]

Well between the two you proposed, I would still get a Rheem/Ruud. But if not, then I would go with the Trane I suppose.

[simplyrollin]

Either of these are good built units, as long as they are installed properly. Rheem is OK, but have a poor reputation here in NC, maybe its just who has installed them, I like them because they break down a lot and have to have many OEM parts to get them going again. Expansion valves anyone? Why dont they go with normal color coded low voltage wires anyways? Why not just energize the reversing valve in AC like most other brands? When set up properly, they do perform OK though.:angel:

[deanlin]

put in a regular ac system and save yourself a headache.