Kenneth, I never thought I'd say this, but I have to agree with you on your statements. Back in 2010 I had a new House built. During the construction I wanted a Trane Packaged Heat Pump, due to past experience. My Trane Unit has been great and very reliable. I used to tell anyone looking for a new HVAC system to go with Trane. However, my sister had a new Trane Packaged Heat Pump installed around 2018. I could tell the quality had slightly changed from when mine was installed. I have since seen and heard many people complaining about the Trane quality slowly going down over the years. I'm not sure why this is happening. If my Trane were to bite the dust tomorrow, it's safe to say that I'd be moving toward Carrier products. Just my opinion. By the way, I really like your TH-cam channel and all the helpful information you give. Thanks!
Thank you man, I really appreciate that. I know a lot of other companies won't give their honest opinion because they just want your money, so I'm glad I am able to educate as many as I can, as honestly and accurate as I can.
Thanks for your frank & unbiased critique on these AC systems. Cost in my opinion will carry the day but quality & reliability is ranked right up there too.
I had a Janitrol for 29 years. nothing major ever broke, except for a capacitor change. We decided last year to put in a new system and now have a Trane.
Hi Kenneth, missing on this list is Bosch that recently entered the American market with inverter heat pumps (not side discharge) and both me and my customers are very happy with them. We install mainly American Standard (that is priced much better than Trane) and Bosch.
Wish there were installers like you in Southern California. All the companies I have contacted seem to want to maximize their returns on me. Love the open pricing, really makes it easy to compare.
We unfortunately hear that all too often. We take pride in creating our own lane in the corruption that's become of the HVAC industry. Even though you're not in Texas, I'd still love to help you out as much as I can, whether that's a second opinion on something you were quoted, or any advice, just let me know!
Over a year ago my adult son decided to replace his 15 year old Carrier AC Heat Pump system. He got quotes from several. Trane was the most expensive but based on my previous experience I encouraged him to spend the extra and get the Trane. Unfortunately that has turned out to be a very bad decision. The Trane has been a lemon, constant problem. The warranty does not cover refrigerant so he has been charged around one thousand dollars for the refrigerant that has been leaking since new but the several technicians could not find the leak. The refrigerant and oil has been leaking from the evaporator. The plastic condensate pan leaked which kept wetting the filter and as the leak increased caused the overflow pan to leak which is in an upstairs closet and wetting the ceiling and wall downstairs. Finally a technician came out and located the leak in the evaporator coil. Trane is supplying the replacement coil but like with the condensate pan he is having to pay for the labor and refrigerant. Trane does not consider the refrigerant a part. I feel bad that I influenced him to buy the Trane rather than Diakin which has a 12 year parts AND labor warranty. He used a local Train dealer in Yulee, FL, where he lives thinking he would be taken care of. Trane and dealer have proven to be bad choices.
Trane has ALWAYS been a lemon. I have one that had serious issues right after the warranty expired. It was cleaned and maintained every year. Id NEVER buy a Trane.
I really like your presentation, our Arco is waaaaayyyy old but still runs like a champ. we bought this house 20 years ago and the air unit was probably installed 15 or more years before that. I thank God every summer when it’s hot for this Arco. ❤. We’re retired so we don’t run it 24/7 but we’re cool when we need it!
great video, would be great to see video on second tier for single stage, best bang for the buck. Things like thickness of coil aluminum, wear points, etc.
Here's my 2024 Update on this question: The most important thing about HVAC is getting a company who is going to do a professional job of the installation. Still be in business for the ten year warranty period after the install and have written warranties and guarantees for emergency service and satisfaction of the installation. You probably already guessed that this won't be the cheapest quote but instead will be one of the major brands which in my 21-years in the industry would mean; Carrier/Bryant, Rheem/Ruud, Trane/Am Standard, and Lennox. Nevermind Lennox told everybody to F-off during the covid era. The best companies usually install a major brand and seperate themselves with; Transitions with sheet metal not metal tape. Install non-proprietary Air-Filter systems-(that you can buy the media for at any hardware store instead of having to purchase from them). They braze the refrigerant lines instead of crimping or other even worse methods. (I don't trust plumbers who can't sweat-solder either). Good companies set new AC units on new leveled pads and replace the electrical disconnect and whip, replace the line-set whenever possible and pull a vacuum to 500 microns before adding the new refrigerant charge into the system. And so-on and so-forth. Those things are more important than brands, however, stay with a major brand if you can because cheap brands are usually installed by cheap companies that do not install with the procedures outlined above. Finally, this stuff is getting so ridiculously expensive and higher and higher efficiencies are being federally mandated that the equipment does not last near as long as older less efficient systems did, so look to basic value systems instead of high-end systems as you'll be looking at replacing them soon after the ten year part warranties expire. The cost to repair out of warranty parts is ridiculous unless you can do it yourself, so value over sales marketing and bells and whistles is the way to go and it's only going to get worse. I really enjoyed a call I ran yesterday where the customer was looking for an AC Only on top a 1960's era Low-Boy Rheem furnace with cast-iron burners, heat-exchanger and a belt-drive blower-motor with actual oil ports for the motor bearings. I unfortunately, had to shake my head and tell him we would have to replace the full system as the furnace was simply too old even though it was built much better than anything that would replace it today. They're not meant to last 30-40 years anymore they're meant to last as long as your refrigerator, about 10-years, or die as close to after the ten year part warranty expires as possible.
Thanks for the info. man....Learned alot....in the market/learning where mine quit cooling today after 24 years....NOTHING is made to last nowandays....sad.....Thanks again!
Just what I needed. My home is 19 years old. I’m VERY sure the a/c is the original from the initial build, it’s a RUUD. Still going strong though, just needs coolant now and then. I had a feeling Carrier was the brand I wanted to go with, nice confirmation from this video. Wondering if it’s easy enough to go from one manufacturer to anther when it’s time to replace my system or if it’s better to stay with the same company?
I had a handyman business years back and I serviced a complex of 4 duplexes built back in the 70s. All have old Singer AC. systems in them still working to this day.
Every other year or so. As my unit grows older. I get the itch to replace. Hit YT for info. I see this gentleman's face telling me the good brands. Will I finally replace it? Or do another coil clean and refrigerant check on the 2001 American Standard 2.5ton package unit. Last HVAC guy told me to care for this system and ride it until the wheels fall off.
The 85 unit development that I live in was built with Lennox units. About 30% of the A/C units have been replaced in only 5-7 years. Most were not covered by warranty despite having been installed by the developer. I will not have Lennox ever again.
Most systems have a 10 year parts warranty, but they must be installed by a qualified contractor who will register the equipment with the manufacturer. I have many new customers who’s equipment was installed by builders or handymen and never registered, that usually only warrants it for 5 years.
The only significant manufacturer not mentioned is BOSCH ( both split and package units - and some of the Midea similars ). They don't require a proprietary thermostat ( i.e. communicating not required but they offer one ) which gives the customer more options. Don't know where you would categorize them on your "6 Best list". I would take a BOSCH over several on your list in a heartbeat.
Thank you for your vid...We live in Phoenix and because of your video we are going with Daiken. We are an all electric home, and I agree that Daikin is "Underrated". We will be adding a side unit to our upstairs..Thanks again.
We had a goodman in Phoenix and it handled the extreme use very well. We eventually had to replace it and went with another goodman which only costs around $5,500.
You produced a very nice informative video here. I’m just a consumer but I do try to keep up with the brands I currently have two AC systems one train and one carrier and they have both been good systems. Thanks for your efforts and posting
My 11 yr old Lennox Elite now has a leak in the 2nd Evaporator Coil. Had to replace the original coil at 7 years old. Never thought I’d be looking for a new system at the 11 year mark. Obviously Not Happy with Lennox. 😡
How long your ac lasts is highly dependent upon the skill of the installer and the level of your maintenance. In texas and the southern states carefully check out an ac service company and select three to talk to you. Get an annual maintenance agreement with a check up every 6 months
Wow you guys provide fantastic info in your videos as well as your website-it is great to see so much upfront pricing etc. I am sitting with 4 estimates in front of me for a new HVAC system and I am not sure which way to go. I've narrowed it down to either a Goodman 15.2 SEER2 AC/4 ton 100K BTU 96% furnace or a Bryant with similar specs. The Goodman installer is reusing my line set but the Bryant is providing a new set. Pricing is $11,500 Goodman vs. $12,800 Bryant. NJ has 7 year interest free financing. Any thoughts if I should move to the "better" Bryant unit for another $1,200? I am confident that both companies will do a fine job. Curious on feedback. Thanks!
Not a fan of Carrier. They are fine units when new, but the cost of their replacement parts is out of control. Had one last year, they wanted $1300 for a 1/2 HP genteq blower motor. Bought an identical motor for a Daikin for $600 and swapped the output shaft (which was the only difference between the two). Same motor for a trane was $900, which is greedy in itself, but Carrier is on another level. Same thing for control boards, gas valves, inducers, etc. They take an off the shelf part and modify it just enough to make it proprietary, then charge double or more for the part.
I agree💯%. 40 years ago when I entered the industry, Carrier was a rip off on part and nothing has changed . Plus if you’re not an authorized Carrier dealer they really drag you through the mud to add insult to injury. For me Daikin & Bosch are coming on strong . On commercial RTUs , I would go with Daikin all the way & Carrier would be my last choice if it was a gas pack RTU.
We've had a roof mounted single stage Trane for 8 years, it keeps on ticking and giving. We live in Morongo Basin of SoCal. it get's hot in the summer here. You can't go wrong. Carrier wantede $1,500 more for the same type of unit. We couldn't be more happier. Our Trane service company is great. We just put a Sinsi T55 smart thermostat on and it works great.
Wrong. Mitsubishi is in a partnership with Trane. Ingersol Rand is who bought Trane from American Standard. American Standard exited the business all together. They converted the HVAC side to Trane Company / Sold off the plumbing company as American Standard. Ingersol Rand was renamed Trane Technologies some time after they bought Trane from American Standard. Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS) is a company jointly owned by Trane Technologies and Mitsubishi Electric. I believe this is partly because Trane / American Standard no longer make their own compressors, like they did prior to 2008. They have had compressor issues large and wide since that time for a variety of different reasons and using a wide variety of different compressor manufacturers upto and including Emerson (Copeland) another joint venture they had that also included Lennox, if you can imagine that. ha, ha, ha. It's all an illusion, wake up.
We had to get a new one in 2020 or 21 and it's a lot of the line Lennox. This house is VERY humid in the main living space especially and seems to be getting worse. Could it be because of a leak? My husband died and now the expense is all on me. An AC guy is offering me a mini split for the AC. I'm just thinking I need a whole house dehumidifier instead. Even now I'm having to push the AC from 68 to 67 until midnight in November. It does not seem to matter how cool it gets, I'm still sweating and started noticing it IS the humidity, NOT the temp. What should I do?
I live and work just down the street from a Carrier manufacturer plant in Athens GA. That plant runs 24-7. I am not sure if I can buy direct to save some coin or not. Something that I am going to look into for sure.
Looking forward to the video on side discharge units. I see these more on new construction and there seems to be 2-3 outdoor units instead of one unit like you see with conventional central systems. Also, what’s the difference between these and split duct systems since the outside equipment appears to be the same.
They are similar, both have the DC inverter technology, I see all condensers and heat pumps going to this eventually. More efficient and less energy consumption but, more trouble shooting headaches and increased repair costs.
Algorithms. I have to choose between Tempstar, York, and Trane. I have a 1600 sq ft old 1965 home I just bought. I have to get all new duct work as well.
What about the other ICP brands like Day and Night, Tempstar, Arcoaire, etc? Their modes look identical to Carrier’s package heat pumps except for the badge name.
My Goodman just crapped out after being shy of 6 years. The cost to me even under warranty is more than what I paid for it. Terrible brand. I would never recommend it.
You arent telling the whole story. Was the installation done properly? Did you maintain the unit regularly? Did u chg the filter when it got dirty? Most failures can be traced back to poor installation . Next is owner neglect n lastly manufacturer defect.
My customers with split system Goodman mostly 2 stage cooling and 95+ gas furnace are all in the 10+ years of operation; this is with bi-annual maintenance of course and were all installed optimally. No major issues yet. I do proactively replace the caps and contactors in the furnace and condenser as applicable. All run the Honeywell zone controllers and T10 thermostats
I really like my 26 year old single stage Lennox 90% AFLUE furnace. I remember when it was first installed I noted how much quieter the blower was than the Bryant it replaced. Now facing the same decision now that the Lennox is getting old. What is your take on the blower fan noise level of these brands, have the variable speed fans (to get efficiency) made these furnaces louder in general?
Can you do one for condo air conditioning , I guess they are called split units or pancake units as many aren’t as highly rated . It’s confusing because some company won’t touch condo units . Thanks for your insight
Any opinion on GE central air conditioners? I just had a NS16A installed and it is a lot quieter then my 16 year old Weatherking and is cooling better too. I didn’t have much say on what to get as we were in the middle of a heat wave and my contractor could install it within a day. I did tell him to get me what ever was the cheapest as I’m not sure how much longer I’ll be living in this house.
Variable speed systems will be the quietest in both cases. In our experience the Carrier Infinity series are the quietest, these units specifically, are some of the quietest systems on the market. Outdoor - 24VNA636A003 Indoor - 58TN0B090C17--16 Please let me know If you have anymore questions, hope this helps!
@@atlasacrepair thank you for your prompt response. My builder wants to install this in my still-in-construction house HVAC Mitsubishi equipment zone dampers two separate floors. Should I be worried about this one?
@@mariagomes9882 Of course, I'm glad to help. As far as the Mitsubishi and on two separate floors, there should be no concern here, that's pretty common. Mitsubishi is a good brand and with the side discharge, it too should be rather quiet.
I equate Lennox with Lemon. I've had two now and will be replacing the second one this year. Both had continous problems over the years. Was the issue really the initial installation? Maybe, IDK for sure, but I'm going to another brand anyways.
I just had three different a/c companies at my house last week for a Goodman issue. It’s crazy to me how different every company and tech is. There is such a huge inconsistency in knowledge and ability. And cost for that matter. Anyway, pretty much everyone tells me Daikin is the only one they recommend at this point. All the rest are starting to head downhill, including Carrier. Regarding cost…the company that came out after the first company failed quoted over $1k more than the third company did that came out and actually did the repair. However, the third company quoted DOUBLE the price on a new Daikin system than another company quoted me on that same day. Tell me how that makes sense?
50% is the install and 20% is the brand and 30% is the tier of that brand. Stay away from variable speed if in Hot Climates that you plan to keep over 14 years due to scarcity of parts. Most units sold are single stage. 80%. The biggest enemy of an HVAC system is the owner not getting the maintenance done.
Nordyne had issues with evaporator coil leaks in the 2000s as most manufacturers did, other then that I always thought they easy to work on and reliable. I believe rheem has since bought nortek now.
Hi I just looked at your video and Iam in the process of of getting a complete system of both air & heating. So far, I have had Carrier and Goodman, Amana give me estimates. Would like your opinion .
Rheem appeals to me most. I just had one of my Lennox evaporator coils leak. It was replaced in about one week. For what I paid for the Lennox system, it's been unacceptable quality. The only way I would ever consider Lennox again is if they offered a fifteen year warranty with guaranteed parts available in forty-eight hours.. In fact, Lennox should offer me an extended fifteen year warranty for their equipment that I have now.
@@wildmanofborneo if you have a leaking system or need to replace now I’d go with the 410-a, at least it’s been around for over a decade. Only downside is side is as time goes by and 410-a is fazed out the price of the refrigerant is going to go up progressively year after as did with r-22.
I've appreciated your advice but you put Trane at no2 despite acknowledging how they've gone down in quality yet up in price, that's not a good recommendation as far as I'm concerned. Hadn't heard of Daikin but after talking with reps, put a new system in TX when we replaced ours a few years ago. Great unit, great warranty. Unfortunately, the warranty only applies to original owner (me, we've since moved and sold the house, back in 2020), which is garbage.
Never Lennox again. Had a 6 year old Lennox system go bad from their copper/brass line flaws that caused 2 different leaks in a matter of 2 month's time. Their defect would have caused more leaks over time, so it had to be replaced. Unfortunately, their warranty was only for 5 years.
I had a Lennox and the compressor died after 13 years. I have a Carrier and it started slowly leaking after 20 years of usage. Annual recharges seems to fix it, but it is an annual event.
Hi ! My name is Trung Le. I just purchased my whole house central air Daikin Heat Pump and air handler last week.( I made the decision caused watching your TH-cam). Heat pump Model number DZ5SEA6010AB , 5 ton, 15.2 seer. My seller told me it's 1 staged ( 1stage ) but the installer told me it's 2 stage ( 2 speed ). Could you please tell me it's 1 speed or 2 speed ? Thank you .
Comfort-Aire is not a manufacturer like those discussed here, but rather a brand/reseller. For example, this company will take another manufacturers furnaces and resell them as Comfort-Aire (I believe Rheem now?). They resell/rebrand Climate-Master geothermal units as another example.
I have to say I am not impressed with Carrier. My 5 year old unit has had the coil replaced twice already. I replaced the filter yesterday and noticed moisture and rust on the filter screen... so it's about due for another coil replacement. Maybe it was the way it was installed...who knows...
Bosch is good not for reasons of the name, more about the model, what it does & how it does it & installation and service practices of the HVAC company you use. For those reasons any brand could be good as well as bad. There's a term I like to use: They all break. But people don't like these kinds of terms, they would rather be shown a guarantee then a list of excuses as to why they had misfortune. HVAC is driven by gimmicks companies will use these things to claim they are better than the alternative. Selecting something because of a name on the side of a box without paying attention to details. This is honesty on a platter, but I know from experience most do not like cut and dry words. You will always need a good HVAC contractor probably more so now than at any other time in history.
My Trane 3 ton 17 seer has crapped out over four times! pinholes in coils compressor condenser just shoddy aluminum shoddy work. Though the parts are covered. I have spent thousands of dollars on labor . Never again
Midea owns Carrier and they are the world’s largest appliance manufacturer from China. All of these brands now have had and been making their equipment out of China. No more American made. Federal law is only 50% of product needs to be made or assembled in USA to be labeled MADE IN USA, which is mainly the blueprints and the rest in China. Not sure if you ever looked at the top HVAC equipment in other countries, which some have weather harsher than us, you won’t see one brand you recognize. Go figure ?
I will never buy a Goodman brand. After 3yrs of used started giving problems. The fan broke & the condenser wasn't in good shape either. WTH it was only 3yrs. old.
You did not include BOSH in any of your current and past vids. Can you shed some light on this? They are reported to be the TOP OF THE LINE and YES, I know they are more expensive.
He's mostly in the camp of Carrier, so you have to understand the behind the scenes dealings of being in the camp of one manufacturer vs another. Essentially HVAC contractors sign a pledge to move a certain amount of money in equipment. If a contractor then starts offering another brand, well it's in the bible that something divided against itself will not stand. This wouldn't be anything different in HVAC circles. That said Bosch is another name that makes various models. So just stating the name of something isn't what it is cracked up to be. Bosch could be good as well as bad depending largely on the knowledge of the contractor you're using. There is no just pick this or that brand and everything will be fine. Too many people think a name brand will save them. This is probably why he made the video, then didn't answer your question. It's about the clicks.
I called Bosch and they could not provide me with any information unless I had a serial number and did not have a dealer in my area. I liked the idea of an inverter package.
@@archstanton9703 package HVAC systems are different than HVAC split systems. Bosch is a manufacturer they do not serve the general public. I doubt any manufacturer would give the general public any information other than what might be listed on a product page on the internet. In every instance I've heard someone calling a manufacturer they tell you to call a licensed HVAC contractor in your area.
@@AustinAirCo Well, I would think they could answer some basic questions like where the package heat pumps are manufactured. He did say maybe Portugal or Switzerland, but it’s probably China. The sales rep never called me back, which is fine because we’re going to probably go with a Rheem package heat pump and call it a day.
Trane used to make very good units. Over the past 20 years, I wouldn't recommend a Trane or AM Stand to anyone. The compressors are garbage, the solid state components are junk, and Trane charges BIG $$$ for OEM parts. I have a Lennox on my house, and although not a big fan, much better system than a comparable Trane.
Unfortunately, RHEEM as fallen to the bottom. Two RHEEMS installed in Sep 2020, both of my RHEEM compressors broke in under 3.5yrs and both were installed properly. Next door neighbot had two RHEEMs installed same week I did, one of his compressors broke and the second one is on it's way out today. Approximately about 80% of AC failures are the result of improper installation. This is not the case. It's just an extremely poor product, in fact, there was a class action lawsuit around 2014 against RHEEM who knowingly produced and sold defective coils causing the cheap metals to corrode in only a few years.
It really is all about your contractor and the installation and service. I’ve installed many brands and have serviced most over 30 years no major reoccurring issues with any. Been a rheem dealer for 15 years now. Your greatest asset is having an experienced honest technician who feels you’re a valved customer.
Kenneth, I never thought I'd say this, but I have to agree with you on your statements. Back in 2010 I had a new House built. During the construction I wanted a Trane Packaged Heat Pump, due to past experience. My Trane Unit has been great and very reliable. I used to tell anyone looking for a new HVAC system to go with Trane. However, my sister had a new Trane Packaged Heat Pump installed around 2018. I could tell the quality had slightly changed from when mine was installed. I have since seen and heard many people complaining about the Trane quality slowly going down over the years. I'm not sure why this is happening. If my Trane were to bite the dust tomorrow, it's safe to say that I'd be moving toward Carrier products. Just my opinion. By the way, I really like your TH-cam channel and all the helpful information you give. Thanks!
Thank you man, I really appreciate that. I know a lot of other companies won't give their honest opinion because they just want your money, so I'm glad I am able to educate as many as I can, as honestly and accurate as I can.
I personally have installed 15 or so TRANE HVAC units, we call them “Trane wrecks”
My son had a Trane heat pump installed last year and the fan broke and was replaced under warranty. Hope that's the only lemon aspect he experiences!
Carrier, goodman budget friendly my top two picks for Texas. Most seen around here as well.
Thanks for your frank & unbiased critique on these AC systems. Cost in my opinion will carry the day but quality & reliability is ranked right up there too.
Of course, just trying to educate on the industry as much and as honestly and accurately as I can!
I had a Janitrol for 29 years. nothing major ever broke, except for a capacitor change. We decided last year to put in a new system and now have a Trane.
Hi, can you pls let me know if your unit is silent inside and outside? Ty
Yes, it’s much quieter and runs less than the Janitrol, to keep the house cool.
Hi Kenneth, missing on this list is Bosch that recently entered the American market with inverter heat pumps (not side discharge) and both me and my customers are very happy with them. We install mainly American Standard (that is priced much better than Trane) and Bosch.
Wish there were installers like you in Southern California. All the companies I have contacted seem to want to maximize their returns on me. Love the open pricing, really makes it easy to compare.
We unfortunately hear that all too often. We take pride in creating our own lane in the corruption that's become of the HVAC industry. Even though you're not in Texas, I'd still love to help you out as much as I can, whether that's a second opinion on something you were quoted, or any advice, just let me know!
Over a year ago my adult son decided to replace his 15 year old Carrier AC Heat Pump system. He got quotes from several. Trane was the most expensive but based on my previous experience I encouraged him to spend the extra and get the Trane. Unfortunately that has turned out to be a very bad decision. The Trane has been a lemon, constant problem. The warranty does not cover refrigerant so he has been charged around one thousand dollars for the refrigerant that has been leaking since new but the several technicians could not find the leak. The refrigerant and oil has been leaking from the evaporator. The plastic condensate pan leaked which kept wetting the filter and as the leak increased caused the overflow pan to leak which is in an upstairs closet and wetting the ceiling and wall downstairs. Finally a technician came out and located the leak in the evaporator coil. Trane is supplying the replacement coil but like with the condensate pan he is having to pay for the labor and refrigerant. Trane does not consider the refrigerant a part. I feel bad that I influenced him to buy the Trane rather than Diakin which has a 12 year parts AND labor warranty. He used a local Train dealer in Yulee, FL, where he lives thinking he would be taken care of. Trane and dealer have proven to be bad choices.
Trane has ALWAYS been a lemon. I have one that had serious issues right after the warranty expired. It was cleaned and maintained every year. Id NEVER buy a Trane.
Very helpful. Thankyou.
@@olebelrngr it’s all about $$$$$
Thank you.
Thank you.
York is seriously underrated. I've had 2 systems both going nearly 30 years. Only changed out to increase efficiency.
I really like your presentation, our Arco is waaaaayyyy old but still runs like a champ. we bought this house 20 years ago and the air unit was probably installed 15 or more years before that. I thank God every summer when it’s hot for this Arco. ❤. We’re retired so we don’t run it 24/7 but we’re cool when we need it!
great video, would be great to see video on second tier for single stage, best bang for the buck. Things like thickness of coil aluminum, wear points, etc.
You're welcome! I can definitely do a video on that, thank you for the advice!
I found your videos very educational as we are in need of replacing our air conditioners. Unfortunately it appears that you do not service my area...
Here's my 2024 Update on this question: The most important thing about HVAC is getting a company who is going to do a professional job of the installation. Still be in business for the ten year warranty period after the install and have written warranties and guarantees for emergency service and satisfaction of the installation. You probably already guessed that this won't be the cheapest quote but instead will be one of the major brands which in my 21-years in the industry would mean; Carrier/Bryant, Rheem/Ruud, Trane/Am Standard, and Lennox. Nevermind Lennox told everybody to F-off during the covid era. The best companies usually install a major brand and seperate themselves with; Transitions with sheet metal not metal tape. Install non-proprietary Air-Filter systems-(that you can buy the media for at any hardware store instead of having to purchase from them). They braze the refrigerant lines instead of crimping or other even worse methods. (I don't trust plumbers who can't sweat-solder either). Good companies set new AC units on new leveled pads and replace the electrical disconnect and whip, replace the line-set whenever possible and pull a vacuum to 500 microns before adding the new refrigerant charge into the system. And so-on and so-forth. Those things are more important than brands, however, stay with a major brand if you can because cheap brands are usually installed by cheap companies that do not install with the procedures outlined above. Finally, this stuff is getting so ridiculously expensive and higher and higher efficiencies are being federally mandated that the equipment does not last near as long as older less efficient systems did, so look to basic value systems instead of high-end systems as you'll be looking at replacing them soon after the ten year part warranties expire. The cost to repair out of warranty parts is ridiculous unless you can do it yourself, so value over sales marketing and bells and whistles is the way to go and it's only going to get worse. I really enjoyed a call I ran yesterday where the customer was looking for an AC Only on top a 1960's era Low-Boy Rheem furnace with cast-iron burners, heat-exchanger and a belt-drive blower-motor with actual oil ports for the motor bearings. I unfortunately, had to shake my head and tell him we would have to replace the full system as the furnace was simply too old even though it was built much better than anything that would replace it today. They're not meant to last 30-40 years anymore they're meant to last as long as your refrigerator, about 10-years, or die as close to after the ten year part warranty expires as possible.
Thanks for the info. man....Learned alot....in the market/learning where mine quit cooling today after 24 years....NOTHING is made to last nowandays....sad.....Thanks again!
Just what I needed. My home is 19 years old. I’m VERY sure the a/c is the original from the initial build, it’s a RUUD. Still going strong though, just needs coolant now and then. I had a feeling Carrier was the brand I wanted to go with, nice confirmation from this video. Wondering if it’s easy enough to go from one manufacturer to anther when it’s time to replace my system or if it’s better to stay with the same company?
I had a handyman business years back and I serviced a complex of 4 duplexes built back in the 70s. All have old Singer AC. systems in them still working to this day.
Every other year or so. As my unit grows older. I get the itch to replace. Hit YT for info. I see this gentleman's face telling me the good brands. Will I finally replace it? Or do another coil clean and refrigerant check on the 2001 American Standard 2.5ton package unit. Last HVAC guy told me to care for this system and ride it until the wheels fall off.
Update: CalClean worked great. Picked up 2-4 degrees of cooling. Less runtime to maintain as well.
As long as it’s holding charge I’d keep it as well.
Great video!! I bought my Carrier system from Atlas as a direct result of watching your informative videos. Keep up the good work!
Wow, that's so amazing, thanks man!
The 85 unit development that I live in was built with Lennox units. About 30% of the A/C units have been replaced in only 5-7 years. Most were not covered by warranty despite having been installed by the developer. I will not have Lennox ever again.
Shocking...my Lennox was installed with my home in 1989...still runs...well I haven't turned it on yet....worried. what a huge decline in quality!!!
My Lennox heat pump is 14 years old and never had a problem
Our Lennox last 19 years
Most systems have a 10 year parts warranty, but they must be installed by a qualified contractor who will register the equipment with the manufacturer. I have many new customers who’s equipment was installed by builders or handymen and never registered, that usually only warrants it for 5 years.
@@colettejaques2559the guy that put mine in about 3 years ago pretty much said they don't last long anymore.
Our Rheem just died after 25 years with minimal maintenance. Our summers are up to 112 degrees. The only con was it was loud. Thanks for the video!
Same here..😂
The only significant manufacturer not mentioned is BOSCH ( both split and package units - and some of the Midea similars ). They don't require a proprietary thermostat ( i.e. communicating not required but they offer one ) which gives the customer more options. Don't know where you would categorize them on your "6 Best list". I would take a BOSCH over several on your list in a heartbeat.
Thank you for your vid...We live in Phoenix and because of your video we are going with Daiken. We are an all electric home, and I agree that Daikin is "Underrated". We will be adding a side unit to our upstairs..Thanks again.
We had a goodman in Phoenix and it handled the extreme use very well. We eventually had to replace it and went with another goodman which only costs around $5,500.
You produced a very nice informative video here. I’m just a consumer but I do try to keep up with the brands I currently have two AC systems one train and one carrier and they have both been good systems. Thanks for your efforts and posting
Thank you....I did not know which way to go or the different brands available in 2024
My 11 yr old Lennox Elite now has a leak in the 2nd Evaporator Coil. Had to replace the original coil at 7 years old. Never thought I’d be looking for a new system at the 11 year mark. Obviously Not Happy with Lennox. 😡
My Rheem is 30 years old. Kind of hoping it dies to get something more energy efficient but it just keeps going strong.
Dude: read the above posts
How long your ac lasts is highly dependent upon the skill of the installer and the level of your maintenance. In texas and the southern states carefully check out an ac service company and select three to talk to you. Get an annual maintenance agreement with a check up every 6 months
Wow you guys provide fantastic info in your videos as well as your website-it is great to see so much upfront pricing etc. I am sitting with 4 estimates in front of me for a new HVAC system and I am not sure which way to go. I've narrowed it down to either a Goodman 15.2 SEER2 AC/4 ton 100K BTU 96% furnace or a Bryant with similar specs. The Goodman installer is reusing my line set but the Bryant is providing a new set. Pricing is $11,500 Goodman vs. $12,800 Bryant. NJ has 7 year interest free financing. Any thoughts if I should move to the "better" Bryant unit for another $1,200? I am confident that both companies will do a fine job. Curious on feedback. Thanks!
Not a fan of Carrier. They are fine units when new, but the cost of their replacement parts is out of control. Had one last year, they wanted $1300 for a 1/2 HP genteq blower motor. Bought an identical motor for a Daikin for $600 and swapped the output shaft (which was the only difference between the two). Same motor for a trane was $900, which is greedy in itself, but Carrier is on another level. Same thing for control boards, gas valves, inducers, etc. They take an off the shelf part and modify it just enough to make it proprietary, then charge double or more for the part.
I agree💯%. 40 years ago when I entered the industry, Carrier was a rip off on part and nothing has changed . Plus if you’re not an authorized Carrier dealer they really drag you through the mud to add insult to injury. For me Daikin & Bosch are coming on strong . On commercial RTUs , I would go with Daikin all the way & Carrier would be my last choice if it was a gas pack RTU.
Should I buy now or wait for till January for the new coolant?
If your current system is holding charge and doesn’t require refrigerant every year I’d keep it.
We've had a roof mounted single stage Trane for 8 years, it keeps on ticking and giving. We live in Morongo Basin of SoCal. it get's hot in the summer here. You can't go wrong. Carrier wantede $1,500 more for the same type of unit. We couldn't be more happier. Our Trane service company is great. We just put a Sinsi T55 smart thermostat on and it works great.
Good information and confirms a lot of what I know to true. Thanks!
What about Mitsubishi? They bought Trane several years ago.
Wrong. Mitsubishi is in a partnership with Trane. Ingersol Rand is who bought Trane from American Standard. American Standard exited the business all together. They converted the HVAC side to Trane Company / Sold off the plumbing company as American Standard. Ingersol Rand was renamed Trane Technologies some time after they bought Trane from American Standard. Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS) is a company jointly owned by Trane Technologies and Mitsubishi Electric. I believe this is partly because Trane / American Standard no longer make their own compressors, like they did prior to 2008. They have had compressor issues large and wide since that time for a variety of different reasons and using a wide variety of different compressor manufacturers upto and including Emerson (Copeland) another joint venture they had that also included Lennox, if you can imagine that. ha, ha, ha. It's all an illusion, wake up.
We had to get a new one in 2020 or 21 and it's a lot of the line Lennox. This house is VERY humid in the main living space especially and seems to be getting worse. Could it be because of a leak? My husband died and now the expense is all on me. An AC guy is offering me a mini split for the AC. I'm just thinking I need a whole house dehumidifier instead. Even now I'm having to push the AC from 68 to 67 until midnight in November. It does not seem to matter how cool it gets, I'm still sweating and started noticing it IS the humidity, NOT the temp. What should I do?
I live and work just down the street from a Carrier manufacturer plant in Athens GA. That plant runs 24-7. I am not sure if I can buy direct to save some coin or not. Something that I am going to look into for sure.
Looking forward to the video on side discharge units. I see these more on new construction and there seems to be 2-3 outdoor units instead of one unit like you see with conventional central systems. Also, what’s the difference between these and split duct systems since the outside equipment appears to be the same.
They are similar, both have the DC inverter technology, I see all condensers and heat pumps going to this eventually. More efficient and less energy consumption but, more trouble shooting headaches and increased repair costs.
Algorithms. I have to choose between Tempstar, York, and Trane. I have a 1600 sq ft old 1965 home I just bought. I have to get all new duct work as well.
Very helpful! Thank you!
What about the other ICP brands like Day and Night, Tempstar, Arcoaire, etc? Their modes look identical to Carrier’s package heat pumps except for the badge name.
Day and Night units were built to last. Just serviced a 36 year old Day and Night. Put a contactor and a cap in it. Everything else was tip top.
@@johncotter9082 I wonder if the latest package heat pumps will last half that long. Thanks for the information!
My Goodman just crapped out after being shy of 6 years. The cost to me even under warranty is more than what I paid for it. Terrible brand. I would never recommend it.
Wow! I have a Lennox AC is 34 yrs....never had a problem but know time is running out. Not sure what to go with!!
@@colettejaques2559Things manufactured 34 years ago are not like things manufactured today. Everything is junk.
You arent telling the whole story. Was the installation done properly? Did you maintain the unit regularly? Did u chg the filter when it got dirty?
Most failures can be traced back to poor installation . Next is owner neglect n lastly manufacturer defect.
My Goodman is 18 years old, but it’s getting on its last leg
My customers with split system Goodman mostly 2 stage cooling and 95+ gas furnace are all in the 10+ years of operation; this is with bi-annual maintenance of course and were all installed optimally. No major issues yet. I do proactively replace the caps and contactors in the furnace and condenser as applicable. All run the Honeywell zone controllers and T10 thermostats
What brand would you prefer for a condo? I need a 2 ton and the contractors has York, goodman, and Payne. Which one would you pick? Thanks!!
I really like my 26 year old single stage Lennox 90% AFLUE furnace. I remember when it was first installed I noted how much quieter the blower was than the Bryant it replaced. Now facing the same decision now that the Lennox is getting old. What is your take on the blower fan noise level of these brands, have the variable speed fans (to get efficiency) made these furnaces louder in general?
Can you do one for condo air conditioning , I guess they are called split units or pancake units as many aren’t as highly rated . It’s confusing because some company won’t touch condo units . Thanks for your insight
I like Carrier & Day & Night brand. Good quality & reasonable price.
Would you go with Daikin or Comfortmaker? I'm in Florida and am looking for efficiency and reliability. thanks
I’m in Central Florida and I’m deciding between a Daikin and Carrier myself.
Any opinion on GE central air conditioners? I just had a NS16A installed and it is a lot quieter then my 16 year old Weatherking and is cooling better too. I didn’t have much say on what to get as we were in the middle of a heat wave and my contractor could install it within a day. I did tell him to get me what ever was the cheapest as I’m not sure how much longer I’ll be living in this house.
If you please, which a/c unit is more silent inside and outside?
Variable speed systems will be the quietest in both cases. In our experience the Carrier Infinity series are the quietest, these units specifically, are some of the quietest systems on the market.
Outdoor - 24VNA636A003
Indoor - 58TN0B090C17--16
Please let me know If you have anymore questions, hope this helps!
@@atlasacrepair thank you for your prompt response. My builder wants to install this in my still-in-construction house
HVAC
Mitsubishi equipment zone dampers two separate floors. Should I be worried about this one?
@@mariagomes9882 Of course, I'm glad to help. As far as the Mitsubishi and on two separate floors, there should be no concern here, that's pretty common. Mitsubishi is a good brand and with the side discharge, it too should be rather quiet.
@@atlasacrepair pls, accept my gratitude!
Variable speed blowers inside, DC inverter condensers and heat pumps outside
I equate Lennox with Lemon. I've had two now and will be replacing the second one this year. Both had continous problems over the years. Was the issue really the initial installation? Maybe, IDK for sure, but I'm going to another brand anyways.
I just had three different a/c companies at my house last week for a Goodman issue. It’s crazy to me how different every company and tech is. There is such a huge inconsistency in knowledge and ability. And cost for that matter. Anyway, pretty much everyone tells me Daikin is the only one they recommend at this point. All the rest are starting to head downhill, including Carrier.
Regarding cost…the company that came out after the first company failed quoted over $1k more than the third company did that came out and actually did the repair. However, the third company quoted DOUBLE the price on a new Daikin system than another company quoted me on that same day. Tell me how that makes sense?
My Goodman had constant problems and now the Lennox doesn't sound any better. Oh no.
I just had a Bryant installed yesterday 2 ton . I replaced my 18 year old Goodman !
Just curious why you chose Bryant after you had a Goodman?
@deborah2653 no real reason . It was what the dealer sold , Bryant or Lennox. Bryant was on sale.. lol
Thanks for the advice. Can you have a different furnace and air conditioner manufacturers? Or do they need to be the same 😊
50% is the install and 20% is the brand and 30% is the tier of that brand. Stay away from variable speed if in Hot Climates that you plan to keep over 14 years due to scarcity of parts. Most units sold are single stage. 80%. The biggest enemy of an HVAC system is the owner not getting the maintenance done.
So go with single stage unit??
Any opinions' on LG Bosch and Gree?
Hi! Great vid! By any chance, do you know where Nordyne falls in the three tiers? Or maybe it's Nortek?
Nordyne had issues with evaporator coil leaks in the 2000s as most manufacturers did, other then that I always thought they easy to work on and reliable. I believe rheem has since bought nortek now.
What is your opinion on the Champion brand. Can’t really find anything on it.
How big a step down is Heil from the Carrier brand? I have a contractor friend who is a Heil installer. Likes Heil a lot.
Hi I just looked at your video and Iam in the process of of getting a complete system of both air & heating. So far, I have had Carrier and Goodman, Amana give me estimates. Would like your opinion .
Hi, do you think Day&Night is a good quality unit? Thanks
Rheem appeals to me most. I just had one of my Lennox evaporator coils leak. It was replaced in about one week. For what I paid for the Lennox system, it's been unacceptable quality. The only way I would ever consider Lennox again is if they offered a fifteen year warranty with guaranteed parts available in forty-eight hours.. In fact, Lennox should offer me an extended fifteen year warranty for their equipment that I have now.
We live in middle of the states where we do get some days maybe a week total of blow freezing. What brand would be best heat pump all electric?
Lennox is under a class action lawsuit deceiving consumers with their cheap low quality coils, not up to code type deal!
What do you think about GE?
Anyone know when Rheem is coming out with R454b units?
Same as the rest of the industry January 2025
@MK-xl9tt thanks. Do you think it's better to buy a r410a while you can or better to wait for the new units?
@@wildmanofborneo if you have a leaking system or need to replace now I’d go with the 410-a, at least it’s been around for over a decade. Only downside is side is as time goes by and 410-a is fazed out the price of the refrigerant is going to go up progressively year after as did with r-22.
Bryant , American standard are arguably the best deal of all. Top of line features quality but cheaper than carrier and trane.
Where does Mitsubishi fall on this list? Was quoted for Mitsubishi
Is Midea a good brand?
My Lennox was the compressor!
I've appreciated your advice but you put Trane at no2 despite acknowledging how they've gone down in quality yet up in price, that's not a good recommendation as far as I'm concerned. Hadn't heard of Daikin but after talking with reps, put a new system in TX when we replaced ours a few years ago. Great unit, great warranty. Unfortunately, the warranty only applies to original owner (me, we've since moved and sold the house, back in 2020), which is garbage.
Never Lennox again. Had a 6 year old Lennox system go bad from their copper/brass line flaws that caused 2 different leaks in a matter of 2 month's time. Their defect would have caused more leaks over time, so it had to be replaced. Unfortunately, their warranty was only for 5 years.
I had a Lennox and the compressor died after 13 years. I have a Carrier and it started slowly leaking after 20 years of usage. Annual recharges seems to fix it, but it is an annual event.
A lot of York and other brands don't recommend installing in warm southern states.
Isn't Daikin and Goodman the same product made in TX?
Where does Bosch rank?
Has a good laugh here 6:50 with the clip of the woman cutting a corner haha
Hi ! My name is Trung Le. I just purchased my whole house central air Daikin Heat Pump and air handler last week.( I made the decision caused watching your TH-cam). Heat pump Model number DZ5SEA6010AB , 5 ton, 15.2 seer. My seller told me it's 1 staged ( 1stage ) but the installer told me it's 2 stage ( 2 speed ). Could you please tell me it's 1 speed or 2 speed ? Thank you .
No mention of Mitsubishi /???
Have you ever heard of Comfor-Aire? Made by a company called MARS. Do you have an opinion? Thanks
Comfort-Aire is not a manufacturer like those discussed here, but rather a brand/reseller. For example, this company will take another manufacturers furnaces and resell them as Comfort-Aire (I believe Rheem now?). They resell/rebrand Climate-Master geothermal units as another example.
I always liked carrier. The last carrier I had lasted from 2000 all the way to 2018
18 years isn’t that impressive
@@afridgetoofar1818 - What about Train?
I have to say I am not impressed with Carrier. My 5 year old unit has had the coil replaced twice already. I replaced the filter yesterday and noticed moisture and rust on the filter screen... so it's about due for another coil replacement. Maybe it was the way it was installed...who knows...
Three coils in five years? That’s cra-cra
Is bosch good?
Bosch is good not for reasons of the name, more about the model, what it does & how it does it & installation and service practices of the HVAC company you use. For those reasons any brand could be good as well as bad. There's a term I like to use: They all break. But people don't like these kinds of terms, they would rather be shown a guarantee then a list of excuses as to why they had misfortune. HVAC is driven by gimmicks companies will use these things to claim they are better than the alternative. Selecting something because of a name on the side of a box without paying attention to details. This is honesty on a platter, but I know from experience most do not like cut and dry words. You will always need a good HVAC contractor probably more so now than at any other time in history.
What about Mitsubishi or LG?
Carrier, Trane, and Goodman are the three brands I see the most often here in Florida. Especially Carrier they're everywhere here.
How much $$ is a capacitor cost to buy?
For my Carrier Unit, $13-$15 on Amazon. BOJACK has been a reliable brand for me. Install is simple and between 5 - 10 minutes
0:03 $19.98 + tax here in Alabama. A friend bought one and replaced it for me last October. HAVC wanted to charge me for $260.
Just watched another review of 7 brands. Single stage seer2. 3 ton lennox came in 1st. Is this just personal opinion
Wheres Bosch fall?
My Trane 3 ton 17 seer has crapped out over four times! pinholes in coils compressor condenser just shoddy aluminum shoddy work. Though the parts are covered. I have spent thousands of dollars on labor . Never again
I’m pretty sure I’ve heard a boss and Mitsubishi too
8 years on my Lennox
Midea owns Carrier and they are the world’s largest appliance manufacturer from China. All of these brands now have had and been making their equipment out of China. No more American made. Federal law is only 50% of product needs to be made or assembled in USA to be labeled MADE IN USA, which is mainly the blueprints and the rest in China.
Not sure if you ever looked at the top HVAC equipment in other countries, which some have weather harsher than us, you won’t see one brand you recognize. Go figure ?
I will never buy a Goodman brand. After 3yrs of used started giving problems. The fan broke & the condenser wasn't in good shape either. WTH it was only 3yrs. old.
Fujitsu?
The best brands depends in the dealer installing it. Any brand is only as good as the installer! Period.
That is solid advice
Day kin?
You did not include BOSH in any of your current and past vids. Can you shed some light on this? They are reported to be the TOP OF THE LINE and YES, I know they are more expensive.
He's mostly in the camp of Carrier, so you have to understand the behind the scenes dealings of being in the camp of one manufacturer vs another. Essentially HVAC contractors sign a pledge to move a certain amount of money in equipment. If a contractor then starts offering another brand, well it's in the bible that something divided against itself will not stand. This wouldn't be anything different in HVAC circles.
That said Bosch is another name that makes various models. So just stating the name of something isn't what it is cracked up to be. Bosch could be good as well as bad depending largely on the knowledge of the contractor you're using. There is no just pick this or that brand and everything will be fine. Too many people think a name brand will save them. This is probably why he made the video, then didn't answer your question. It's about the clicks.
Any comments on Bosh? @@AustinAirCo
I called Bosch and they could not provide me with any information unless I had a serial number and did not have a dealer in my area. I liked the idea of an inverter package.
@@archstanton9703 package HVAC systems are different than HVAC split systems. Bosch is a manufacturer they do not serve the general public. I doubt any manufacturer would give the general public any information other than what might be listed on a product page on the internet. In every instance I've heard someone calling a manufacturer they tell you to call a licensed HVAC contractor in your area.
@@AustinAirCo Well, I would think they could answer some basic questions like where the package heat pumps are manufactured. He did say maybe Portugal or Switzerland, but it’s probably China. The sales rep never called me back, which is fine because we’re going to probably go with a Rheem package heat pump and call it a day.
I have a Carrier unit since 2007 , and now is working not good, so after 17 years !! 😂
Bosch. It's the best out there for the best price.
Trane used to make very good units. Over the past 20 years, I wouldn't recommend a Trane or AM Stand to anyone. The compressors are garbage, the solid state components are junk, and Trane charges BIG $$$ for OEM parts. I have a Lennox on my house, and although not a big fan, much better system than a comparable Trane.
Nice comparison but 2 people talking at the same time is very difficult to contend with.
What about Bosch? I'm hearing Bosch is the best.
You might be a bit biased.
Carrier parts re going though the roof price ie, nd availability not what they used to be before Mexico move.
Unfortunately, RHEEM as fallen to the bottom. Two RHEEMS installed in Sep 2020, both of my RHEEM compressors broke in under 3.5yrs and both were installed properly. Next door neighbot had two RHEEMs installed same week I did, one of his compressors broke and the second one is on it's way out today. Approximately about 80% of AC failures are the result of improper installation. This is not the case. It's just an extremely poor product, in fact, there was a class action lawsuit around 2014 against RHEEM who knowingly produced and sold defective coils causing the cheap metals to corrode in only a few years.
It really is all about your contractor and the installation and service. I’ve installed many brands and have serviced most over 30 years no major reoccurring issues with any. Been a rheem dealer for 15 years now. Your greatest asset is having an experienced honest technician who feels you’re a valved customer.