My contractor tells me that there is no need to install unit that works on R410 and that R 22just as good. I don’t know if it makes any difference long term from operations stand point (recharging it, maintenance etc) or not. If it does what are they? Also, we are planning to stay in the house for about 10 years or longer. Another thing is the noise control, is there is any difference in compressor type and noise levels?

Thanks,

My contractor tells me that there is no need to install unit that works on R410 and that R 22just as good

They both work the same

I don't know if it makes any difference long term from operations stand point (recharging it, maintenance etc) or not.

Both refrigerants will be around for a long time. The manufactures will stop producing units that use R-22 around 2010.

See below.

http://www51.honeywell.com/sm/genetron/common/documents/r22-allocation.pdf

What You Should Know about Refrigerants When Purchasing or Repairing a Residential A/C System or Heat Pump | Ozone Depletion - Regulatory Programs | U.S. EPA (http://www.epa.gov/Ozone/title6/phaseout/22phaseout.html)

http://www.epa.gov/Ozone/title6/downloads/EPA.homeowners.9-06-06.pdf

If it does what are they?

R-22 will get a bit more expensive as the years go by.

Also, we are planning to stay in the house for about 10 years or longer

In that case I would go with R-410.

Another thing is the noise control, is there is any difference in compressor type and noise levels?

The more expensive the unit the quieter it is going to be outside.

This is because the more expensive equipment uses lower speed fan motors IE 825 RPM verses 1075 RPM. Better equipment also has a compressor blanket to further quiet things down. You get what you pay for.

The contractor that gave you the estimate might not be familiar with R-410. It is different than R-22 on many different aspects.

I would get at least TWO more estimates and go with R-410 in your case.Also consider a heat pump. It will save you big bucks on your heat bill in the winter. Heat pumps can be installed on any type of furnace. Gas,oil,electric,ETC.