I don't have an answer to your question. However, I live in Virginia and am replacing my heat pump. Similar quote from Carrier installer - 25HPA648 Performance heat pump, FE4ANF005 air handler, infinity control, 15kw electric heat. $8650. Apparently there is a $1000 rebate from carrier (see http://www.carriercoolchoices.com) which expires 8/31.

Only thing unusual is that the quote says they will use existing refrigerant line set. Not sure I like that since the current 14 year old unit has a leak somewhere.

The number I posted for the Carrier equipment already has the manufacturer rebate deducted.

That does sound like new lines are a must?

Never a bad idea to replace the copper lineset, but oftentimes it is very difficult if not impossible (think about condo complexes where the lineset often runs between walls of other condo units). If reused properly (i.e., blown out with nitrogen with a deep vacuum) and the proper size, they don't always have to be. The leak is most likely not within the lineset because it is one solid piece throughout.

2 stage units provide an advantage in terms of humidity control; however the 16i and Carrier models (and any brand using an unloading Copeland scroll compressor) run at around 80% capacity on low, so there isn't a huge turndown for the price premium. While I prefer Trane equipment over Carrier myself, both manufacturers make excellent equipment with comparable warranties, and both should do a fine job if installed properly. I think in this case, if looking at 2-stage units, the Carrier system with the Infinity control is the better system simply because the Infinity control does a much better job controlling the system than does a standard 2-stage thermostat such as the 802. Looks like the Carrier dealer finds that your home needs a 3.5 ton system (or 4 ton if 2-stage) while the Trane dealer is quoting slightly larger equipment. Something to bring up to the Carrier dealer. However if 3.5 tons is indeed the proper size, and a 4 ton is installed -- while it would not be a major issue in terms of comfort or efficiency -- the 3.5 ton would certainly be better in terms of humidity control and efficiency because it would not be short cycling as much on milder days. The single stage Comfort 15 with v/s air handler and the TP-PRH control will also do a good job with dehumidification without the added cost of 2-stage, but with the rebates and the Infinity control I think the Performance 16 is the better choice if going the Carrier route.

I realize I haven't exactly convinced you to go with either system, but know that either one should do a fine job if sized and installed properly. The installer is key. All in all, I think you'll get the most out of the Infinity system.

Thank you for the info! I thought the Trane 16i ran at 70% and the Carrier Performance 16 runs at 60% on low?
I really thought the Trane was better equipment and love the 3 years same as cash. It did seem that the Infinity controls had more dehumidification options and control over the system.
Also I have seen suggestions such as Vision PRO IAQ thermostats with certain configurations have more abilty?
How would you spec out the 16i and what advantage to you get with a communicating device vs non communicating with Trane?

Thanks so much for your insight!

All unloading scroll compressors (the type used in the 16i, Performance 16, and every other 2-stage unit) reduce the "compressor" capacity to 67% when in low stage. However, the net cooling effect is more around 80% depending on the indoor coil matchup -- meaning the rated capacities in btu/h. So there is some advantage, but if a 4 ton unit running on low yields about 3.2 tons of cooling, and the heat load on the house requires a 3.5 ton unit at peak outdoor conditions -- the question becomes how long will the unit be running in low stage to remove ample humidity? Almost like running a 3.5 ton unit at full capacity. Something to think about.

The Honeywell IAQ is a great thermostat if the installer knows how to configure it to be as such. It can also control humidity in a similar way the Infinity does, though the Infinity is said to be tops in terms of dehumidification control.

The 4TWX6048E1 cannot communicate, and because it's a heat pump and not straight a/c, I'm told it cannot use the Trane 900 communicating control for whatever reason. I don't think they are still manufacturing the communicating XL16i heat pump (as it's efficiencies are not high enough to reach the tax credit requirements in the larger tonnage sizes). However the IAQ is still an option with the 16i system you have been quoted. The 802 is also made by Honeywell and is the VisionPRO thermostat branded with Trane's logo (not the IAQ model, however). As far as what the communicating system gives you -- it has some diagnostics as well as an integrated system (like the Carrier) to control humidity, etc. It essentially does what the Honeywell IAQ does, except while the Honeywell IAQ would require an external interface module mounted by the unit, the communicating indoor air handler has this control board within the unit itself.

The last factor is the Carrier dealer is giving 10 years on labor with the performance 16 quote. All of the other quotes are 1 year labor unless you buy the extended warranty.
Any suggestions for installers in the Tampa, FL area by chance?
Is the pricing in the ballpark?

flhvacguy

I would not have Trane's XL16i system period.

If the XR15, then either HW VP IAQ or XL900 thermostat with the correct Trane air handler.

I always recommend new refrigerant lineset.

IMO

Is the 4TEE3C09 the correct air handler? Sounds like the decision is the 2 stage infinity system or the single stage Trane XR15. If we look at it that way do you folks lean one way or another?
The difference in price between the 2 is only a 1000.00 is it worth it? Plus I was going to see if the Carrier folks would throw in their wireless device for the thermostat. I am a geek and love the fact that I can control it remotely. I beleive Trane has something similar but it seems you are forced to a certain model thermostat at that point?

When I replaced my a/c the first question was "how much longer am I going to live in this house?". I went with Trane XR-13 rather than anything higher because I had a five year "move out" date. I noticed a difference in my electric bill when I replaced my windows with impact/tinted windows. A big seller on the home was those windows rather than the 2 year old trane hvac. You did not mention the age of your windows, but it was a good upgrade for me. Just a thought...