My heat pump (outside condenser unit) is dying and needs replacement. Indoor air handler running fine. Both units are 10 year old Carriers. 2 questions:

1. Do I need to replace the indoor air handler unit at the same time? I know doing so would be best for efficiency, but ignoring that, is it OK to get just a new outdoor condenser unit?

2. Any thoughts on American Standard performance/reliability? Was quoted $3200 for the 13 SEER 2 ton unit, including labor. Northern Virginia.

Thanks everyone!
-Tony

Do a search on this site. This has been discussed many times and there is really nothing to ad. It is best to replace both but the discission is up to you not us.

A two ton here with both inside and outside units replaced with a new line set and using the new R-410 is $ 3,900.00 including sales tax. My neighbor just has a two ton system installed and asked me about the bids he got. He got Amana which is in the same price league as Am Std.

I would get other estimates. Sounds a bit high to me.

I took a look at the other threads. When you say "inside coil", is that something that can be changed out of my current air handler for a much lower price? Or would I just get a new air handler?

Thanks,
Tony

Just get a new air handler. You might be able to install a newer coil in the old air handler BUT the new coils are larger and more efficient and will probably take a modification to the metal of the cabinet. It will probably just be easier to change the entire air handler. You will also have a choice of the old standby R-22 or the new R-410 refrigerant. R-22 will be around for sometime but there are benefits to R-410 also. You might read up on some articles as posted on Google and here for more info.