Trane vs. Carrier (or others)

As far as I am concerned, the brand does not matter that much. What you should be looking for is the quality of the install. And BTW those prices you got seem VERY competetive, almost cheapskate prices. I am amazed that these contractors are actually still making a profit...

What corners are being cut to get such low prices?

I think your installer must be nuts to think he can do an adequet job at these prices. This sounds like a "slam and run" installation with no warranty or any follow-up for all the problems sure to be found when you actually try to use these systems.

There is no way that he is conforming to code or to good installation principles here.

We sell both brands and I believe they are about the same.

You need to make sure the company that installs the replacement equipment will be around if you need warranty. Check them out with the BBB.

I would look real close at the Trane systems, they are rated just as high as Rheem. FWIW, the prices for both of your Trane and Carrier quotes are real cheap.... you should be looking at around $14,000 plus sales tax for both systems installed. I hope they are both R-410a systems, or your gonna get f***ed hard a few years down the road when they need leak repairs, and the price of R-22 has risen to $100/lb.

What you need is to find your nearest installation company that uses caravans as install trucks (without signs). I'm sure that they will make you a much better deal on one of the most important things in your life, your wife and family's happiness during hot days. They'll be sure to come out and do a swell job for you, on the cheap too.

Do yourself a favor and continue with your research until you really understand what it is you are getting into. There's plenty of information out there if you take the time to look for it.

I don't think that the prices are high at all. I'll bet those companies don't last another 5 years. They're probably already using their present jobs to pay for their last jobs. That means that your warranty may as well be thrown right into the can.

...Ron

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Thanks to all for your replies!! I have spoken to a few of my friends who have used these companies in the past and they have all been very pleased with both the systems installed and the work performed. Both have also been in business for over 10 years in our area.

Much of what I have heard and read has not indicated that one brand is any better than the other and that it really comes down to the workmanship of the installation. With that said, and the fact that I have friends happy with the local Carrier dealer's work, I am leaning toward the Carrier system and saving myself over $2,000.

-Tony-