I have Trane XL1200 heat pump with High Efficiency furnace gas backup system, which is 19 y.o.
The system refused to heat the house today (32F outside) and HVAC guy after tinkering with some electrical board diagnosed that the heat exchanger is no good and the whole system needs replacement. He does not specialize in Trane, but in York and Carrier and promised to quote prices for those. He asked what SEER do I want and whether I want variable speed blower. I told him I want a high quality system, since I am not selling this house any time soon.
1) Should I replace Trane system with another Trane system? 2) We have separate units for 1st and 2nd floors. The other one works well so far. Can only one be replaced now or do the need to be replaced in pairs? 3) What SEER do I want nowadays? My house is 3,500 sq ft, if it helps. 4) How can I tell if the guy is a real pro? He was very honest and said it will take 3 days to install and he will take $1,200 for labor (for one system, not both). The rest of the cost is hardware. I understand his price is not high, but how do I know he will do the best job?I am lost (and cold). Please help.
Steve