HVAC - heat pump replacement

[dimcdon]

My heat pump recently broke and I would like to replace it. Does anyone have an opinion of the lenox,trane and carrier brands? Also, is a variable speed air handler worth the additional cost?

Thanks

[SQLit]

I bought an American Standard/Trane 8 years ago, 12 seer with the variable speed air handler. I wanted extra dehumidification and this air handler was programmable to a point and let me do what I wanted. Never been sorry about the expense. Go with the unit just down from the flagship unit. All are good machines. Get a scroll compressor. Amana is good also. Check the amps on the old unit and ask for the amps on the new. Should be like 1/3 less (same tonnage)

[Joseph Meehan]

The most important part of any heating or AC project is not the hardware, it is the ability of the professional. The best equipment will give poor service and fair equipment will give good service depending on how it is chosen and installed.

Pick your professional and use the equipment they prefer. They will know that equipment better and you will get a better job.

[CBhvac]

In order:

Lennox: I LOVE them. They break often, and parts are sky high...IF you can find them, or get them. Warranty? Its a joke, even for dealers. The supplier can have the little part you need to get to repair a customers unit, and unless all the T's are crossed, the supplier is in a good mood, and his buddy down the street that wont be there for a week to get it hasnt asked for it, maybe, just maybe your Lennox guy can get you running that day.

Trane: Ever seen one derail? :)

Carrier: Ask yourself this....are you a test subject?

Given that...who is left?

Ahh....it does not matter. You are name shopping. You need to pick the installer and go with what he sells, since all equipment made today is total and complete garbage unless installed and designed properly for the home its going in.

I am a York UPG dealer.....Yorks got its share of problems too...mainly in this area, a couple of installers down farther south..LOL..but seriously, the name on the machine mans NOTHING....until it breaks. Then, your installer, or the company that you got it from makes the world of difference.