I live in the DC area and have a 25 year old split heat pump system that's killing my electric bill and could go at any moment. I bought the house 2 years ago and plan on staying for another 5 or so (not my "forever" house). I'd like to replace it but the line-set is undersized (liquid line is only 1/4 or 5/16 inch). Had a load calc done and I need a 1.5 ton. After comparing price, warranty, and contractor (which I hear is most important) I'm down to choosing between the following:
Brand: Amana
Outside Unit: ASZ140181A
BTU: 18,000
EER: 13
SEER: 15
HSPF: 8.5
db: 70
Air Handler: ASPF183016
KW: 10
Warranty: 10 year parts, lifetime compressor, 2 years labor
Contractor: Locally owned/operated for 30+ years, great reviews, used by neighbors
Price: Lowest by 30%
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Brand: Trane
Outside Unit: 4TWR5018E1
BTU: 18,000
EER: 13
SEER: 15.5
HSPF: 9.0
db: 76
Air Handler: ??? (can't find the part #)
KW: 10
Warranty: 10 year parts, 10 year compressor, 1 year labor
Contractor: Large regional chain
Price: 30% higher than Amana
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I know what you're going to say - replace the line-set. Problem is I'd have to cut through several walls/ceilings and I'm REALLY hoping to not have to do that (both for hassle and cost). Both contractors took an extra day or two to do research and both say their unit will work with the existing line-set. I'm leaning towards Amana because of: lower price, quieter system, friendly local contractor.
Would I be making a good choice to go with the Amana? Are there any other brands that might be better suited to my existing line-set (heard Rheem might be compatible)? Any other advice for someone in my situation?
Thanks in advance!
Brand: Amana
Outside Unit: ASZ140181A
BTU: 18,000
EER: 13
SEER: 15
HSPF: 8.5
db: 70
Air Handler: ASPF183016
KW: 10
Warranty: 10 year parts, lifetime compressor, 2 years labor
Contractor: Locally owned/operated for 30+ years, great reviews, used by neighbors
Price: Lowest by 30%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brand: Trane
Outside Unit: 4TWR5018E1
BTU: 18,000
EER: 13
SEER: 15.5
HSPF: 9.0
db: 76
Air Handler: ??? (can't find the part #)
KW: 10
Warranty: 10 year parts, 10 year compressor, 1 year labor
Contractor: Large regional chain
Price: 30% higher than Amana
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
I know what you're going to say - replace the line-set. Problem is I'd have to cut through several walls/ceilings and I'm REALLY hoping to not have to do that (both for hassle and cost). Both contractors took an extra day or two to do research and both say their unit will work with the existing line-set. I'm leaning towards Amana because of: lower price, quieter system, friendly local contractor.
Would I be making a good choice to go with the Amana? Are there any other brands that might be better suited to my existing line-set (heard Rheem might be compatible)? Any other advice for someone in my situation?
Thanks in advance!