Outside unit replacement versus repair

10 years ago

I have a 13 year old RUUD 5 ton Heat Pump and the compressor has just gone out on it. The repair man has given me three options:

1. Replace entire system both inside and outside unit to get new warranty, upgrade to the new coolant, and improve efficiency and energy saving. Price tag is about $5000

2. Replace the compressor and fan motor in the existing outside unit. Price tag is about $1400

3. Replace the outside unit with a 5 ton carrier unit that is about 2 years old and still in great shape. Price tag is about $1600.

First question is are all these quotes reasonable quotes for the respective options?

I'm leaning towards option three since it is only $200 more than the repair but would like to make sure that the repair is a fair quote and isn't over inflated to make me go for option 3.

I know that I will eventually need to do option 1 but for now option 2 or 3 is best for me just want to make sure I'm getting a fair quote.

Second and final question: Is $5000 to replace the entire system inside and out a fair quote?

Thanks in advance for you assistance.

Comments (3)

ryanhughes
10 years ago
Honestly? Option 1. Please provide more details on the estimate, as they should have been provided to you. Model number of new indoor/outdoor units? New thermostat? New lineset? What ductwork improvements are required and to be made to support the new system? To start -- and $5k is reasonable.

If the compressor has truly gone "out" in 13 years -- there is a REASON! Make sure ductwork is properly sized and that you select a good contractor who will perform a proper installation. Many, many equipment issues stem from previous installation issues. I can't hypothesize what caused the "death" of this compressor without more info. If I were you, I would not hesitate to get 2-3 estimates for system replacement.

This post was edited by ryanhughes on Fri, Apr 26, 13 at 0:55
tigerdunes
10 years ago
Putting price aside for the moment, what is the warranty on items1, 2, 3.

What are complete model numbers for option 1 and 3?

Depending on location, I think the repair price on option 2 is high.

Post back.

IMO
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mike_home
10 years ago
"Replace the outside unit with a 5 ton carrier unit that is about 2 years old and still in great shape."

Where is this 2 year old unit coming from? Why is it available? What is the model number? Has it been sealed and charged for the past two years?

Buying used HVAC equipment is risky. I would not recommend doing this unless you got a very good warranty.