From an equipment standpoint, the Tempstar is one of the nicer 13 SEER units on the market. High & low pressure protection switches tied into a Comfort Alert diagnostics module. 2 speed fan motor and compressor cover for sound reduction. 1 year replacement program if the compressort fails in the first year.

The XR13 is the best of Trane's 13 SEER units. Nice cabinet, swept wing fan blade and compressor blanket so not too loud. All aluminum coil means less likely hood of coil leaks, in & out.

The Carrier is the builder model, essentially the same as the Tempstar "entry level" unit. Below the level of both of the other units so equipment wise, less money.

While the T* is a nice unit, mixed reviews don't sound good.

You might ask the Carrier dealer about his unit with the cabinet, the Comfort line, not the base line as the 24ABB is. Also has compressor pressure protection.

 

Thanks very much for your response. I just received my 4th and final quote from a respected installer.
He has quoted me the Tempstar Tx5300 and a Carrier with the steel cabinet, model number Carrier 24ACB.
He offers them both at a reasonable price within $100 of each other.
The only hitch is the carrier needs to be ordered direct from factory and will take 7- 10 days.
We have plenty of hot weather coming soon!
Do you think the Tempstar is equal to the Carrier 24ACB, or do you think the Carrier is better? Is the Carrier worth waiting 7-10 days for?
I think the Carrier name sounds better, but as far as actual performance and reliability, im just not sure.
Thanks again for your response
Mark

 

The 24ACB is closer to the Tempstar. But it lacks the Comfort Alert module, 2 speed fan and compressor cover. Also doesn't have the 1 year replacement program. They both come out of the same factory. I wouldn't wait for the name!