Mind

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.

I prefer electronic demand defrost but based on your central Florida location, that feature is not a big deal.

Stay away from the low end builder grade models.

What size is existing system?
What size is existing heat strip?

Post back.

IMO

Thank you for your reply. The current Rheem I have is I beleive is a 3 tom unit. The Air Handler is RHQA-1310B. Not sure about the heat strips.

How much mark up is there on these systems?

This is the current outside unit.

Why does the markup matter? Shop around if you are not satisfied about the pricing.

There is a great deal of junk in the HVAC marketplace and especially on HPs. I believe you get what you pay for.

Stay away from builder grade low end systems.

And finally, small independent businesses which most HVAC dealers are have to make a reasonable profit to remain in business. I prefer the small shops where the owner is actively involved in the total operation of the business-new sales, new installs, as well as routine repairs.

IMO

Hi, if I were you, I'd have the leak in your current system fixed. If that's the only problem, I wouldn't replace it with a new system. My heat pump in Phoenix is almost 20 yo and still going strong (Goodman builder-grade unit).

In Orlando, you probably don't need heat strips or defrost cycle as recommended. I wouldn't bother with a humidifier either. IMO

That is a thought, but I won�t be able to sleep knowing the AC could go at any time. I have been doing some reading and am considering replacing it myself. I can buy a complete Rheem online for about $2700. If I install 95% myself, and then have a contractor charge the system, I think I'll save over 1500 bucks. It really doesn't look that complicated for someone handy.

I recently read an article promoting doing it yourself and said everyone in the HVAC business will tell you why you can't do it. However, those same people wouldn't think twice about putting brakes on their car themself and not using a certified mechanic. Interesting parallel, huh?

Manufacturers generally will not honor the warranty on equipment purchased on line. If you have a problem you will be on your own. Most reputable contractors will not want to install customer purchased equipment.

You got plenty of years and use out of your current system. If you shop around you should be able to get a new complete system for a good price from an independt contractor. I would get the highest efficiency single stage which is roughly around 15 seer. I would stick with rheem/ruud, american-std/trane, york/coleman/luxaire, carrier/bryant, or comfortmaker brand.

neohioheatpump -- I've been doing research and don't fully understand the single verses dual stage HP. Can you explain why I should stick with a single stage? Also, I have been looking at the Rheem since I have had pretty good luck with mine over the years. Do you have a model you would recommend? Prestige, Classic, or Value. Thanks again!

RPQL-JEZ with var speed air handler.

Here is a link that might be useful: RPQL JEZ Rheem HP

well, actually a dual stage heat-pump has a first and 2nd stage. 1st stage would typically run at 66% capacity and 2nd stage at 100% capacity. The nice part of having the 2 stages is during cooling mainly. You could run on the first stage for longer cycles and dehumidify better and produce a better even cooling effect.

I recommend highest efficiency single stage as its a good bang-for the buck. Plush in an extremely hot area like yours I would imagine you would be running much of the time at the full level 100% and having a 2 stage isn't all the necessary.