Can you help me with buying a new A/C for my condo rental?

A huge power surge burnt out several components (including my compressor) to my A/C / Heating unit (outside unit). The unit is about 22 years old. Time for a new one. I've had a few estimates. One company said I could just replace the outside unit with a Westinghouse 2.5 ton 13 seer for $1850 (10 yr compressor/parts 1 yr labor, new 4" slab and hurricane strapping). (And it would work with the inside handler). The other 2 companies said I needed to replace both units because the outdoor unit will over exert the indoor unit b/c of its age. I got one quote for $3500 for Amana 13 seer 2.5 Ton heat pump and handler (and 10 yr parts labor) and $4500 for a Trane 13 seer 2.0 Ton Heat Pump and Handler. I know nothing about A/C units and need help! The unit is for a 1300 sq ft condo in hot and sunny Florida.

Can you help me with buying a new A/C for my condo rental?
If both the inside and outside unit were 22 years old, I suggest getting an entire unit. Mainly because you are putting a brand new efficient unit outside and keeping an old inefficient unit inside. With the newer models today, less energy is being used. Trane units are made by American Standard - they are probably the best brand out there. Trane units require Trane parts but they break down less. You will see energy savings with both of these units.





What concerns me, however, is the different tonnage quoted. One is a 2.5 ton and the other is a 2 ton quoted? Did these companies do what is called a Manual-J or load calculation? This is where they measure the square footage and get measurments for the insulation as well as the windows in the home. All of these factors determine the correct tonnage. A unit too big will constantly turn off and on and cause the walls to sweat. A unit too small will constantly run, stressing the compressor (the heart of the unit).





The best thing to do is to check out the company, see if there are any complaints agains them with the BBB. Also, take into consideration the warranty. You will need to use this warranty eventually. The $4500 price is reasonable for a better quality unit.
Reply:Air handler ( Inside unit ) Needs to have an orifice installed, but that's easy if ready . This allows the gas to be regulated with the newer 13 seer ( Most older unit were 10, but government changed it last year ) Go with the outside replacement, but make SURE the air handler is addressed properly. If they say you don't Ned it, tell them to take a hike.
Reply:Call sears, and see what they would recommend. Or go to Home Depot and ask them, they are very good at explaining exactly what you need.


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