Replacing Residential System

[schmidtjd]

2.5 ton Comfortmaker AC leaks, so it needs to be replaced. Unbudgeted expense, so we're balancing cost and quality. Also, we may be out of the house in 5-10 yrs. In Des Moines, IA, so we have 3 cooling & 5 heating mos/yr. ~1800 sqft on 2 levels. Several questions:

1. What is the right size & type of system?
2. Should I replace the furnace (80%, 1-stage) also?
3. Should I consider a heat pump?
4. What is the diff among brands (estimates include Amana, Bryant, Carrier, Goodman, Lennox, Luxaire, Trane)?
5. Should I consider a maintenance contract?

Thanks!

[y7turbo]

Where is it leaking at that it can't be fixed?

[schmidtjd]

I'm told it's the condenser.

[schmidtjd]

Stupid question: can that be fixed?! No one has discussed fixing it, so I thought that wasn't an option. Everyone we have called just wants to sell us a new system.

[camachinist]

Keep calling until someone offers a different option. How old is the system?

Did the tech who said it was leaking show you where the leak was? Explain the issue in any detail?

I had a similar issue (not leak, but locked compressor) last year. Tech dx'ed, gave me options and I chose to replace the condenser and retain the interior system, as I knew the unit's maintenance history from install and the property is now a rental. Saved about 45% over the cost of a new system. One very hot summer and another heating season later system was serviced, found to be functioning properly and will face another year.

Finding a good tech is crucial. Reading these forums taught me that.

[schmidtjd]

We did discuss it. He charged it with Freon to see how bad it was before recommending anything else. That was a month ago, and it's already not cooling.

Sorry, I forgot to mention the system (and house) is 17 yrs old, which is why I think we're resolved to replace the whole thing. We've been in the house 4 years, and it's always had issues. The upstairs doesn't cool very well, and the temp around the house is never consistent. I don't believe it was well maintained, either.

[schmidtjd]

Okay, here's what I'm down to:

• Carrier Infinity 24APA7 AC + Infinity 96 furnace
• Lennox XC16 AC + SLP98V furnace

Price difference is negligible. Which one should I go with and why?

[mk12345]

Okay, here's what I'm down to:

• Carrier Infinity 24APA7 AC + Infinity 96 furnace
• Lennox XC16 AC + SLP98V furnace

Price difference is negligible. Which one should I go with and why?

Carrier.

[10phaseadapter]

infinity and beyond!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (buzz light year voice)


the infinity unit is just amazing, you will NOT regret it.

[kevster]

Have you had a load calculation done by any of the contractors that have been involved? Also, have the other problems been addressed? ie: you mentioned that the upstairs doesn't cool very well and the temps are inconsistent from room to room.

I understand that you are resigned to changing out the system which is in my opinion a good idea after 17 years. However, do yourself the favor and have it done properly. If it hasn't already been done, insist on a manual J load calculation to ensure that you are getting properly sized equipment. Also, it sounds like you may have some air flow (duct) issues that a brand new system will not solve all by itself.

The install and contractor that you choose is more important than the actual equipment or brand that you choose.

Good Luck!