Its come time to replace my 17 year old heatpump system. I've gotten two job quotes, and wanted to get some opinions on how good they are.

1. Trane XB13 (13 seer) with 2TEC fan+coil unit (5yr/1yr parts) = $5138

2. Trane XL14i (14 seer) with 4TEC f+c unit (10yr/2) = $6110

3. Trane XL16i (16 seer) w/ 4TEC f+c unit (10/2) = $7129

4. Trane XB10 (10 seer) (5/1) = $4892

All Trane quotes are from the same installer. All Tranes come with a programmable thermostat standard.

5. Carrier comfort 13 (5/1yr) = $5400
Standard thermostat.


The trane guy said all Trane units use thermostatic expansion valves. Is this true? I tried searching on Trane's site but couldn't find any info about that. I plan on being in this house for about 5 years or so. Do you guys see any benefits to one of these models over the other? Do these prices seem reasonable? I am leaning towards the XB13 from Trane at the moment.

 

Which company can do the best job and where are you located?

 

Both companies have been in the area for a long time and have a large service staff. I live in central Maryland. The Trane company didnt do a manual J but the Carrier company did. His results were the same size unit that is already in my place (2 1/2 ton).

I was about to pull the trigger on the Trane 13 seer, but decided to get one more estimate, this time from a company that sells Goodman. Neither Trane nor Carrier company can install until next wednesday anyways.

Basically I am looking for a decently efficient unit that does its job. I dont need lots of bells and whistles. I wont be in this house forever. I'm 25 and have lived in this place for two years now.

 

hokiefan

I personally think Trane make the best heat pumps in the mid to upper line of their products. I consider the XB line low end and would avoid.

The XL14i HP is a great product. I noticed they quoted this with the R-410a frig. I would ask that they also quote the R-22 frig unit-might save some $$$.

I would also suggest that you look at the XR13 and XR14 units-good SEER and HSPF and should be less expensive than the XL14i. The XR14 is available in both R-22 and R-410a models.

I prefer HPs with scroll compressors and var speed air handlers. I am not wild about the Carrier Comfort 10. As an alternative, you might want to take a look at the mid range line of Armstrong-comes with Copeland compressors. While the Trane XL16i is a 2 stage compressor HP and is a wonderful system, this might be overkill for a 25 yr old who might move in several years plus this unit only comes in full ton size-no 1/2 tons.

Are u certain 2 1/2 ton is correct size? You should verify with your dealer and also make certain ductwork is inspected as to size,overall condition, supplies/returns, insulation, etc.

I admit my bias against Goodman as it is a product sold more on price than quality.

Just my ideas here. Good Luck on your selection.

IMO