[sbflinn]

Hi

I live in AL where the temps are 90+ degrees for 6 months or more and are looking at new heat pumps. We have had one company recommend an Amana 4 ton 2 stage heat pump for our 2200 sq ft house with vaulted ceilings and sklights. We are also looking at an American Standard because me Dad swears by them.

I have been told that the Amana are one of the worst to use. What is your opinion on either and do we need a 2 stage unit?

Right now the unit we have is a 3 ton Bryant 20+ yrs old and not able to keep the house on 72 once the outdoor temp is over 90. So we need a good reliable unit that will cool this house down to what we want.

[hvac1000]

First have the contractors do a manual J to see what size unit you REALLY need. To big a unit is actually worse than a bit to small because of moisture removal probems the larger unit will have due to shorter run times.

The difference between the units is not much but what does make a BIG difference is the quality of the install. You can take the best unit and turn it to junk with a bad install. You can also take the cheapest unit and it will run forever with a great install. These are just the facts. A two speed is nice to have but not absolutely necessary. It can offer a bit better utility bills but where you live and how hot and humid it gets really determines the cost of operation.

ALWAYS get at least two and better yet three estimates from different companys to be sure you are hetting the best price available and contact the BBB to see if any complaints have been registered against the companys. Some sales men talk a good game but the job just does not turn out correctly.

See the tip link below.

[dac122]

There is a school of thought that says since there are so many common parts between most units today, quality is much the same.

I'd worry more about the install than the exact unit. In other words follow everything hvac1000 just said.

[sbflinn]

Well, I have talked to 3 different contractors and ALL 3 have different answers.

One says a 31/2 ton would be best. That we currently have a 3 ton system. What we really need is new duct supply run because we only have a 16" air supply and 14" return. He said both are too small and fixing that along with only a half ton difference would be best.

The other says the duct is fine and we need a 4 ton 2 stage unit to really get the cooling benefits we desire.

The last contractor too says the duct is fine and needs 4 ton single stage with dampers installed to better balance the system.

How do I determine who is right?? Everyone has an opinion. All 3 come HIGHLY recommended.

[sbflinn]

Well, I have talked to 3 different contractors and ALL 3 have different answers.

One says a 31/2 ton would be best. That we currently have a 3 ton system. What we really need is new duct supply run because we only have a 16" air supply and 14" return. He said both are too small and fixing that along with only a half ton difference would be best.

The other says the duct is fine and we need a 4 ton 2 stage unit to really get the cooling benefits we desire.

The last contractor too says the duct is fine and needs 4 ton single stage with dampers installed to better balance the system.

How do I determine who is right?? Everyone has an opinion. All 3 come HIGHLY recommended.

[wmproop]

Ask which contractor will give you a written warranty on their work and quality of equipment+ check out their referances with other customers and also with the BBB
This should eleminate the guess work

[siberianair]

Most contractors will say whatever system or brand they sell. Personally I would go american standard. Amana has a lot of styles and variations of their units and I would do the research and make sure you are getting the better quality ones.