I am trying to help my son replace his split heat pump system. He has received the following estimates. Which unit is the best and will last the longest with the least problems? What about Trane or Lennox systems? I appreciate any advice on the subject!
1. Goodman 13 SEER 2 ton heat pump, matching air handler w/ 10 kw heater package. Installed in same location. $3,300.00.
2. Carrier 15 SEER 2 ton Performance heat pump, variable speed air handler w/10 kw heater package. Relocate to left side of garage. Qualifies for tax credit. 4,990.00.
3. Payne 15 SEER 2 ton heat pump, matching air handler w/10 kw heater package.
This is a Carrier/Bryant unadvertised brand. Relocate to left side of garage. Qualifies for federal tax credit. $3,990.00.[/B]

If you really look at what you have told us you can make your own decision! The 15 seer carrier system would be my choice. You will get a $1497.00 tax credit making it $3493.00, and it includes a VS air handler, which adjusts the air flow to match the demand & humidy control. I have a new Extreme Comfort (Goodman) system that was installed Sept.1, 2009 it is great. The Carrier System will be great also. Do you like the Carrier dealer? Is he reliable? If you like the dealer that quoted the Goodman ask him to quote a system that qualifies for the 30% tax credit up to $1500 total.

Steve H

There are units available for the tax credit without the variable speed motor and associated system. STAY AWAY from variable speed! While it is under warranty for labor and materials variable speed is OK but when it fails (breaks) and they ALL do eventually it will be a very expensive repair. The average cost to repair a variable speed unit is just about 1200.00 to 1500.00 depending upon weather it is the motor, motor controller, or circuit board. A standard 3-4 speed unit is 250-300.00 for the same repair.

Now if you just have to get one with the bells and whistles so be it but you have been warned. A properly setup standard 3 or 4 speed blower indoor unit works very well and does not have the extra costs associated with the purchase or repair hanging over it. Naturally the heating companies love to sell them since they know someday it will fail and they stand to make big money doing the repair. BTW the energy savings is also a moot point.

Get the Payne unit since it is made by Bryant/Carrier to start with the quality is there and in your case it is only $ 600.00 more than the Goodman. Don't get me wrong Goodman also makes good equipment but the price spread is small.

The most important item is actually the install NOT the brand name. A good install will go further towards longevity than the Brand name any day.

See the attachment below for some facts without fiction about your dealer choice and how to obtain bids since you NEVER buy expensive items like HVAC without at least 2 or 3 bids.

# 3 after tax credit if you have referances and feel comfy with the install work the installation is very,very important one unit is about as good as the other, the V speed blower is OK till it comes time for you to replace the motor, then you looking at around $800.00 to 1200.00 bucks which has the best warranty? Does either installer offer a labor warranty,, don`t no where you live but all the prices are more than reasonable compaired to most places