Any Hvac folks on the board

[Gray ghost]

My AC unit went out and wanting opinions on the best unit for my money. Im looking at the Rheem units and also Heil 2 1/2 ton units. Im melting away quick please help. I have lost 10 pounds already today. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks

[fishmonger]

Ghost,

I am a mechanical engineer working for a commercial mechanical contractor. I would put in a Trane unit, hands down. Probably more expensive up front, but will last for a long time with the least, if any, problems. Carrier or Lennox as a second choice. Skip the Rheem, Ruud, Heil, Goodman, or other less expensive brands. As with most things, you get what you pay for.

You might also consider upsizing to a 3 or 3.5 ton unit. My house had a 2.5 ton unit (1800 sq ft), and would not get below 79F. There was nothing wring with the existing York unit. I put in a 3.5 ton Carrier (got a deal thru work), and I could hang meat now if I wanted. Your coil and furnace may be sized for the larger unit, mine were, as the condensing unit (outdoor portion of an air conditioner) are often under-sized by the builder to save a few bucks.

You can get Trane at Home Depot now, and I believe arrange for an installer there also. Their buying power will get you the best price on that brand. Higher efficiency (SEER) will save you money on your 'lectric bill in the long run.

Hope this helps.

FM

[Gray ghost]

Thanks for the info FM. Im going with a 3 ton unit as suggested and a Trane. If I can hang on until Monday I will be back in the modern world of AC. I think I might go wet wading at the Dam tomorrow and just sit in the river for a few hours. http://www.georgia-outdoors.com/ubbngto/smile.gif

[fishmonger]

Glad to help, Ghost. According to Bob M, I'm mostly a rabble rouser, so I was in need of some Brownie points. http://www.georgia-outdoors.com/ubbngto/smile.gif

That sit down at the dam oughta shrivel 'em up real good, and keep 'ya cool 'til the heatin'-n-air guy comes. Brrrr, make me cold just thinkin' 'bout it...

FM