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Heating & Air Conditioning

Are all brands different... 'junk' vs good brand

13 years ago

We are looking to replace our A/C & furnace. We're on our 6th estimate and everyone says something different. Some talk about this brand or that brand being "junk," some talk about using a fiberglass plenum, some metal. Some get a permit from the city, some don't.

We have a 2,800 sq. ft. house, currently have a 5 ton unit and will keep a 5 ton. We're thinking we do not want a 2 stage unit.

What would you recommend? We were leaning toward an Amana due to lifetime warranty but doing some research, they aren't looking so good.

We are also getting quotes from $7,000 to $14,000. Wow!

HELP!!!

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Comments (4)

zippyhvac
13 years ago
Everyone giving you quotes is a salesperson - does the Ford dealer near you opine about how great Buicks are?

I disagree strongly about getting a 2 stage unit, unless your somewhere that the weather is amazingly consistent you'll save money with multiple stages.

As far as brands go, you'll find tremendous "inbreeding" amongst brands - Amana=Goodman=Janitrol. You'll see lots of complaints about the Amana "family" because they are often sold as a "value" brand with much less high-dollar marketing than the other brands. The distribution chain is "loose", allowing almost anyone who can carry one out-the-door-to buy one - needless to say, many are hacked in by unqualified installers.

They are ALSO one of the most popular units out there, if not #1, a fairly close #2 in units sold, and they work well for years if properly installed.
brickeyee
13 years ago
The install is more important than the equipment.

There are only a couple manufacturers of compressors.

Because residential systems do not have an accumulator to hold liquid refrigerant the system does not match the load very well.

In the fall and spring short cycling resulting in a loss of humidity control s common.

The multi-capacity condensers at least have two ratings to try and match the changing loads.
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baldloonie
13 years ago
Amana has 2 lines, the premium (models start with A) and Distinctions (models start with G) which is just the base Goodman stuff. The premium units have a lot of extra features such as Amana's respected stainless steel heat exchangers. Outdoor units have extra compressor protection & diagnostic features and are quieter.

Key is best installer and right price. Staying 5 ton cuz you have it may not be wise. New units sometimes don't dehumidify like old ones and oversizing new ones can give you humidity issues. A GOOD dealer would do a load calc and advise you.
Gardener972
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks everyone for your input!

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