My 44 year old 3 ton Carrier system, still blowing ice cold air, is in need of replacement. The air handler condensate catch pan has rotted out and it's dripping into the overflow. I thought it was gonna last forever, but everything has it's time. What a well built system !!

With that said, I've gotten a few quotes and would just like a few of the pro's to weigh in on them.

First guy quotes me a 3 ton Goodman with matching air handler, he's also changing the line set. He comes in at $5500, I like the idea that he's changing the line set, but he also tells me that Goodman is a builder grade unit. I don't plan on staying in this home too much longer, maybe a few more years at best.

My buddies brother who owns an HVAC company quotes me a 3 ton Rehm unit with a 3.5 ton air handler. He's flushing the line set, not replacing it. Although this might be considered better equipment, i'm concerned about the line set. He's also a grand higher in price at $6500. I think both quotes are very reasonable, but the line set has me a bit concerned.

Thought on the Goodman vs the Rehm? I do like the idea of the 3.5 ton air handler to help improve efficiency, but the line set has me re-thinking his quote.

Thanks in advance for the input !!

 

All other factors being equal the higher tonnage will actually decrease efficiency as the unit will cycle on and off more. Think of it as city driving vs. highway.

 

if he is using r-11 flush then the line set is fine as long as it is the correct size. Id stay away from Goodman especial if you are moving in a few years. (resale value). Im not a big fan of the oversized AHU's on 410. R22 you could get away with it but i don't think 410 works as well with it. Did he say why is is using the 200cfm bigger unit did he?

 

Airman - He did not say why, but I can and will question him on that. Good to know with the flush, he claims he's been flushing R22 line sets and hasn't had any issues with 410 equipment installed.

 

As long as the lineset is properly brazed, is the correct size, and not damaged, there isn’t anything wrong with reusing it.

 

I like the older equipment since it usually of higher quality and built to last. I would try and fix the condensate pan before I replace the whole system. Just a thought.

 

Steamboy - believe me I've thought about that. But at 44 years old, and an energy hog to beat, I think it's time for it to go.

 

If you look at the replacement cost of the A/C as an investment, the payback for your investment from the cost savings for a more efficient unit will be way into the future. So if the operating cost savings is your reason to buy a new unit then that is a terrible investment. However if a new unit is actually needed then it is the right decision. Just some thought.