My mother and I find ourselves in a mind boggling situation regarding the purchase of a combination furnace and AC unit. The home to be supplied is of Cape Cod style in Northern NJ and is approx. 1200 sq. ft. The home was built in the early 1940's and converted from coal to steam radiator. There is no heat source currently in the home and natural gas is available on the property. The old boiler was removed by my father who was in the process of remodeling the home. Unfortunately, he passed away and the responsibility of renovation is now on my mother, with my assistance. We have contacted several (5)HVAC installers and have received not only very different price quotes but varied thoughts as to placement of the unit as well -- either the attic, in a quite large storage area or the basement. In our opinion, placement in the basement would dramatically impact the resale value of the home given that the duct work would have a noticeable drop in an already low area (6'10"). The most reasonable estimates received include the Goodman & Ruud brands placed in the basement. Since the brands were unknown to either of us, we did some research and became further confused. Those brands which we thought were of good quality: York, Trane, and Carrier etc. seem to have unfavorable ratings like the Goodman and Rudd brands. We are not opposed to placement in the basement. As a matter of fact, we were leaning away from attic placement when some technicians were discussing the ineffectiveness (heat) of attic placement. Some have also indicated that the higher efficient units will condensate more in the attic and the pipes can burst. Others say there is no worry at all. We have already removed the chimney stack as it protruded into the kitchen being remodeled. Therefore, we now need to go with a direct vent system. The laundry area is located in the basement and my mother is concerned that the first floor is going to be cooler at the floor level in the winter months. What are the true drawbacks to placement of a combined unit in the attic and what is really considered a reliable brand?

Go with at least a 90% plus gas furnace. The brand really makes little or no difference it is the install that tells it all. You need to find the best company to do the job not the supposed best equipment since everyone will have a different opinion in that matter. You also need to follow the item that is attached. Just open are read then follow the instructions to make your purchase less of a headache.

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