Trane vs. Carrier, dual-fuel

16 years ago

I have a good quote on a 3.5 ton Trane XL14i heat pump ($4400, including the new coil, installed on existing home.) This would stack on top of my Goodman GMP-4 (?) furnace to give me a definite reduction in energy costs.

However, one of the main reasons I'm looking to upgrade my system is that the AC has been inadequate. We currently have a 3-ton Goodman, so both contractors have suggested a 3.5 ton unit to keep the house as cool as we'd like in the hottest part of summer.

But I've been reading on here that Carrier does better with humidity control, which is a big consideration living here in KY. So here are my questions: How much better is the Carrier for controlling humidity? Would just replacing my existing AC with a heat pump be enough, or would I have to replace the furnace too so that I get variable speed? If so, what kind of money are we talking?

Thanks in advance. I really appreciate the generosity of folks on here to share their knowledge with the rest of us!

Schmidt

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Comments (3)

Schmidt
Original Author
16 years ago
Sorry, I should have clarified that both contractors who have given me bids so far are recommending Trane units. I haven't talked to a Carrier dealer yet.
tigerdunes
16 years ago
schmidt

First of all, I would have your ductwork thoroughly inspected as to size, overall condition, insulation qualities, balance of supply/return, etc and address any hot/cold spots within your home that is likely due to airflow issues. You want to be certain that ductwork can handle additional CFMs if you go up in size with either a 3.5 ton HP or an AC condenser.

I personally believe Trane makes superior HPs over Carrier but have to admit that Carrier Infinity models are the best overall system with the Infinity controls and this includes dehumidification. The Trane XL14i is a solid workhorse HP but you won't achieve its efficiency capability pairing with a Goodman furnace. If you intend to keep the Goodman furnace for the forseeable future, you might consider dropping down to the XR14 Trane HP model. That would save you some bucks. But if you think the Goodman will be chucked in the next few yrs, then stick with the XL14i and then pair with a Trane var spd furnace or vs air handler. I believe Ky has inexpensive electric rates. I would also consider the Vision PRO IAQ stat. Trane controls stink.

IMO
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kruzmisl
16 years ago
Tigerdunes;
I'm going through the same which brand to use as schmidt, but I'm leaning towards Trane. You mention the Vision PRO IAQ. This is a Honeywell product and looks similar to the Trane 802 also by Honeywell. Will this work with the Trane dual compressor XL19i? Will the advantages it offers all work? Does this require a lot more installation?
Thanks
John

Trane vs. Carrier, dual-fuel

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Schmidt
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tigerdunes

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Trane vs. Carrier, dual-fuel

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SchmidtOriginal Author

tigerdunes

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Schmidt
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