Tuesday 2 February 2021

Best choice in variable speed 2 stage system?

Welcome any advice for brands/models as my long-term contractor (20 + years) has been bought out and is switching brands (away from carrier). I am seeking unbiased advice.

Current system:
2 units. Carrier Infinity 3Ton single zone downstairs. Carrier Infinity 4Ton 3 zone system upstairs with Carrier zoning system board. They are dual fuel with Natural gas heat pumps (in hindsight dual fuel was a waste of money as gas prices plummeted). Located in the Carolinas so mild heat, hot humid summers. System has been great but did not seem to last longer than lessor priced systems (16y) with regular maintenance, always. Coils are going apparently.

Going forward:
My contractor no longer sells many Carriers and the new techs are not that familiar with them. If I change brands (they now do more Lennox), the zoning system apparently needs replacing for a couple thousand on top of the new units. So I was hoping to stay with Carrier... We have liked the system other than the less-than-pleasant heat pump heat in winter vs when the Nat Gas furnace comes on on colder days. We have an Infinity-only compatible zoning board apparently so maybe it is sunk money that needs ripping out regardless since I would not spend for the infinity system again.

I have concluded fancier units mean fancier repair bills. Brand names are not important. I would be fine with different units sitting outside side-by-side if that made sense.

1st question: Would anyone recommend "best value" models/brands for variable speed 2 stage systems in 3 and 4 ton (with the 4ton zoned)? Best value for us defined with emphasis on reasonable price, and reliability (backed by warranty). I assume variable speed and 2 stage in any brand will result in a comfortable system (but maybe that assumption is wrong if one wants to use zones or maybe brands with same features are not created equal...?).

2nd question - is it time to rip out the carrier zoning system (control and electronic dampers) after 16 years and replace? It continues to work flawlessly. That makes us feel better about abandoning that money although it seems like a waste to the consumer.


source https://hvac-talk.com/vbb/showthread.php?2226268-Best-choice-in-variable-speed-2-stage-system&goto=newpost

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