Manufacturers Info Sketchy

[GKW]

This is my first post and need some information from HVAC Pro’s. I’m looking into replacing my 30 year old 2 ton split air conditioner/electric furnace this fall. I have been trying to educate myself on what is available before I contact a contractor. I am finding that manufacturers for various units are more than somewhat sketchy on the technical differences between the units they offer. For example what are the technical or operational differences between the Carrier Base series models 24ABB3 (~13 SEER) and the 24ABC6 (~16 SEER)? That is, what makes one 13 SEER and the other 16 in this particular comparison? One other question, does lifetime maintenance cost increase with a higher SEER? Thanks

[hvacvegas]

This is my first post and need some information from HVAC Pro’s. I’m looking into replacing my 30 year old 2 ton split air conditioner/electric furnace this fall. I have been trying to educate myself on what is available before I contact a contractor. I am finding that manufacturers for various units are more than somewhat sketchy on the technical differences between the units they offer. For example what are the technical or operational differences between the Carrier Base series models 24ABB3 (~13 SEER) and the 24ABC6 (~16 SEER)? That is, what makes one 13 SEER and the other 16 in this particular comparison? One other question, does lifetime maintenance cost increase with a higher SEER? Thanks

The difference between a 13 seer, and 16 seer, is the unit is able to transfer more heat, with less energy required.

Larger coils, higher efficiency motors, TXV's, things like that.

lifetime MAINTIENCE should be roughly the same. This means cleanings, and yearly maintience, not repairs.
Some would claim that lower seer base models have less reliability than higher seer preimum models (as would I), within the same manufacturer.

Warranties can also differ, changing lifetime costs.

[GKW]

Thanks hvacvegas. After much searching I have found some detailed information on the different models. It is just going to take some time digging into and comparing the data to see what is what. I want to feel comfortable that I buy the right level of equipment (somewhere between the bottom of the line and the top.

[hvacvegas]

16 seer. Middle of the line between high efficiency and low ball.
In my opinion, good brands would be:

Carrier, Bryant, Trane, Amana.

No particular order.

Nothing against lennox, or the others, I've just had PERSONAL bad dealings with others.