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dangarlepp

Looking to replace an old Trane Heat Pump

Dangarlepp
11 years ago

Hi, my home here in Central Florida has it's original Trane heat pump from 1986 model BWR736E. 3 ton. It still works great and it's pretty cheap to run. I want to have a replacement unit picked out before it breaks.

I'm looking for reliability and cooling efficiency.

Would American Standard 4A6H5036E be a good choice? Do I need a 2 stage compressor here in Florida, I understand I need a variable rate air handler. My air handler is in the attic.

American Standard/Trane

Carrier

Lennex/Rheem

seem to be most popular and reliable around here.

Thanks for any help

Dan

Comments (3)

  • tigerdunes
    11 years ago

    Dangar

    Just so you know, they don't build workhorses like that anymore.

    My personal favorites would be AmStd Heritage 15 or Trane XR15 with best var speed air handler Tam 7 series. Add a small heat strip.

    Are you in a coastal location/environment?

    Here is my personal checklist.

    Obviously correct sizing is important. If you are unsure, then request a
    load calculation or even perform it yourself for a nominal fee online.

    there are three equally important components-quality HVAC, the install by dealer, and probably the most overlooked and disregarded is the ductwork system.

    these are my minimum specs for a new HP system. both outside and
    inside units should be replaced to have a properly matched system.

    15 SEER, 12.5+ EER, 9 HSPF
    best matching VS air handler
    full BTUs in both cooling and heating for your rated size
    R-410a refrigerant(same as Puron)
    scroll compressor preferred
    electronic demand defrost preferred
    thermostat with "dehumidify on demand" feature
    staged backup heat strips
    new and correctly sized refrigerant line set

    you want a thorough inspection of your ductwork system. size, overall
    condition, supply and return lines, insulation qualities, leak test, etc.

    any hot/cold spot issues in your home should be addressed.

    I would only use authorized dealers for the various brands that provide quotes.

    see mfg websites.

    I would look at Trane/AmStd,Rheem/Rudd,Carrier/Bryant.

    Depending on your location, I would not purchase a new HP system that
    did not have electronic demand defrost.

    IMO

  • Dangarlepp
    Original Author
    11 years ago

    Thanks for all the good info, I'll research that stuff.
    My house is one floor, concrete block, about 1700 sq ft
    in Crystal River, Florida about 10 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico. WE get about 15 nights a year that fall below 32 degrees, maybe one or two nights at 20. It ALWAYS gets above 50 during the day. This unit does get a little icy on the 20 degree nights.

  • weedmeister
    11 years ago

    I think the word is that the Trane families do better in a coastal environment (better corrosion protection).

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