Need new Furnace/Airconditioning

[Cruiserdrew]

It appears my furnace has finally reached the end after 39 years of service. My A/C unit was installed in 1963 when my house was built so it needs to go too, even though it actually still works.

I need some advice on this as I know nothing about HVAC but someone here does. I want new equipment built like a Land Cruiser. Heavy, overbuilt, easy to maintain. I don't care about the absolute max efficiency.

Any advice out there? Internet searches yield contradictory advice though most think Trane is OK.

The HVAC buisness seems like a bit of a scam. Anywhere on the web to get unbiased info?

Thanks, gotta make this happen in a week or two before it gets really cold.

 

[Brentbba]

I've got two Bryant heating/AC units I installed several years ago (two story house - one for each floor). I've been very happy with the units. Recommended from a local HVAC guy I've used and trusted for years.

1963? You may have asbestos in some of your registers or runs. I'd replace all the ducting with new while you are at it too. You'll probably gain more efficiency from that if they are original to the house.

 

[e9999]

top efficiency on a gas furnace may not be a huge priority, but I'd look carefully for a high efficiency a/c. The bills add up quickly on A/Cs.
On that note, have you looked at a heat pump?

 

[Cruiserdrew]

top efficiency on a gas furnace may not be a huge priority, but I'd look carefully for a high efficiency a/c. The bills add up quickly on A/Cs.
On that note, have you looked at a heat pump?

Not buying that. My 1964 A/C has been cooling the house for $250 per month. It's not a huge expense in the scheme of things. I'd rather have it last longer, and cause no problems, than be 5% more energy efficient.

 

[warpdriv]

Look for one with a good SEER rating. http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/central-air-conditioning

American Standard is the good stuff. You can tell quality by the number of years they warranty their stuff. I would not install anything with less than 10 years. If you do not have gas as an option, go for a heat pump. My electric bill was cut in half after I put one in.

 

[Cruiserdrew]

Deed got done today. New Rheem furnace and A/C. Duct leaks repaired. I was prepared for new duct work, but the guy said the old sheet metal ducts were in great shape and he taped up the few connections that were questionable. He actually thought my 63 duct work was better quality than you could even get today.

Anyway, new stuff is in, running and the house is warm for the first time in 2 weeks.

10 year warranty, every 6 month service included for 10 years, and the company is a family company in Sacramento in business for 30 years. 2 brothers and all their kids work the business. The high efficiency stuff qualifies for rebates from the gas and the electric company.

I didn't need that $10k anyway...right!

 

[Brentbba]

Deed got done today. New Rheem furnace and A/C. Duct leaks repaired. I was prepared for new duct work, but the guy said the old sheet metal ducts were in great shape and he taped up the few connections that were questionable. He actually thought my 63 duct work was better quality than you could even get today.

Anyway, new stuff is in, running and the house is warm for the first time in 2 weeks.

10 year warranty, every 6 month service included for 10 years, and the company is a family company in Sacramento in business for 30 years. 2 brothers and all their kids work the business. The high efficiency stuff qualifies for rebates from the gas and the electric company.

I didn't need that $10k anyway...right!

Warm? Just fire up a Mr. Buddy tent heater Andy!

Got it done just in time. I feel your pain on the $$$ - I have two of those beasts in my house!

 

[alia176]

Deed got done today. New Rheem furnace and A/C. Duct leaks repaired. I was prepared for new duct work, but the guy said the old sheet metal ducts were in great shape and he taped up the few connections that were questionable. He actually thought my 63 duct work was better quality than you could even get today.

Anyway, new stuff is in, running and the house is warm for the first time in 2 weeks.

10 year warranty, every 6 month service included for 10 years, and the company is a family company in Sacramento in business for 30 years. 2 brothers and all their kids work the business. The high efficiency stuff qualifies for rebates from the gas and the electric company.

I didn't need that $10k anyway...right!

$10k? Ouch. Oh well, at least it'll be toasty when I bring the family by for a visit in few weeks

 

[AJP]

I don't think 10k is out of line for a good furnace and new a/c .... How did you conclude that Rheem was the premium unit to buy? What about Trane, Lennox etc etc. ..... Not challenging the choice but would like to know .... probably be looking myself again soon. Did you get a heat pump as well? Thanks

 

[Cruiserdrew]

I don't think 10k is out of line for a good furnace and new a/c .... How did you conclude that Rheem was the premium unit to buy? What about Trane, Lennox etc etc. ..... Not challenging the choice but would like to know .... probably be looking myself again soon. Did you get a heat pump as well? Thanks

Rheem/Ruud are the same company and right now top the Consumer Report lower incidence of repair list. Not much more thought than that. Don't know that they are "premium", but I did like the company that installed and will service it. Besides, it's not my problem for 10 years! I think most furnace/AC units are likely just fine.

If you get a furnace and A/C you don't need a heat pump.

 

[AJP]

[QUOTE
If you get a furnace and A/C you don't need a heat pump.][/QUOTE] I could be wrong but my understanding was that some A/C units can serve as heat pumps and that in some climates the Heat Pump could compliment or replace the furnace during Spring or Fall

 

[Trollhole]

That a dual fuel system. They are becoming very popular.