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Heating & Air Conditioning

Upgrading AC in South Florida

14 years ago

Hi all,

I currently have a Carrier 5 TON 10 KW A/H model FB4ANB070 with an installed Heat package model KFCEH1101C10 connected to cond model (38CKC060)38BRC060350.

I received 2 bids:

Trane XL20i A/H 4TEE3C10 Cond 4TIZ0060, 18 SEER, XL900 Thermostat

Carrier Comfort A/H FV4CNB006 Cond 24ACB7, 17 SEER, Honeywell Vision Pro w/humidity control thermostat

The Carrier is $1400 less but is the Trane worth the extra $$$ for the extra 2 years on the compressor warranty?

It seems as though the Trane is a more robust unit than the Carrier unit the salesman quoted. I also noted concerns about the 2 stage compressor in this forum from the experts so that just adds to my confusion.

All help is appreciated.

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Comments (7)

stayincool
Original Author
14 years ago
Also, is it even worth upgrading at all? The existing system is 9 years old and I have had it serviced (preventative maintenance) 4X in the last 6 years with no issues except that the furthest room never cools properly but I was told an additional return is needed for the room.

Thanks again.
tigerdunes
14 years ago
stayincool

only you can determine whether existing system should be replaced and upgraded. nine yrs old for Florida environment is not a like new system.

I assume your quoting dealer informed you the Trane XL20i does not qualify for tax credit.

And while the Comfort 17 does qualify for tax credit, it can not be considered a fair comparison to top end Trane XL20i. I would also request a quote on Performance 17 with and without Infinity air handler/controller.

3636993 Active Systems COMFORT 17 PURON AC CARRIER AIR CONDITIONING 24ACB760A**30 FV4CNB006 59500 13.40 17.00

do you live on coast or inland?

IMO
Good LucK!
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stayincool
Original Author
14 years ago
Hi Tigerdunes,
Yes, both contractors advised that the XL20i does not qualify. I live inland, about 13 miles from the coast.

Given the model #'s I provided on my existing unit can you tell what energy efficiency rating it is? What is the life expectancy of my current unit? Thanks again
tigerdunes
14 years ago
stayincool

10-11 SEER. see link below.

because of the Fl environment plus the fact that you probably use your AC 10-11 mths out of year, a 15 yr average lifespan would be at the top side.

the Performance series is a nicer system than the Comfort series.

IMO

Here is a link that might be useful: Carrier 38CKC AC Condenser
stayincool
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks so much, you really have me thinking now.

May I ask what is it about the Performance 17 you like? I expect it will be more expensive than the Comfort 17; Do you think it is more comparable to the XL20i?
udarrell_2007
14 years ago
You're talking about a big investment whereby U also want to improve efficiency of cooling your home.

That effort always begins with working to do everything possible to your home to reduce the heat-gain.

After doing all the cost-effective retro-work on your home, U ought to have an accurate load-calc performed, & retrofit the duct system to properly meet the new lower heat-load. - udarrell

Here is a link that might be useful: Proper Sizing of Equipment & Duct System Airflow
classicdave
14 years ago
stayincool,
your not really comparing apples to apples.
The Trane XL20i definitely has more beef to it, but is it worth the beef? Higher Price, no tax credit.

I actually like the no thrills 2 speed Carrier/Bryant systems.
It's a two speed scroll compressor and the FV4C air handler is variable speed with a tin plated evaporator coil. The 5 ton you are looking at is 17 SEER and that's hard to beat and then it's $1400 less.
I would recommend a Carrier Edge Thermidistat with that system.

The good news is you live in South Fl,
and installation of new A/C's are as low as they come in the US.
so you should get the best install price per the equipment you choose in the country no matter what system you decide on.

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