Questions on A/C system replacement

Question

I just bought a house (4 years old) and had the original A/C installer come out to perform a maintenance visit. To my surprise, the mechanic who came out said that the whole system needs to be replaced. He said there was a clog and the coils, plenum are all rusted out. Megometer reading indicates compressor is breaking down. Compressor, coil, and plenum recommended to be replaced.

1. If warranty period is not over, would this normally be covered?

2. The existing system is a Carrier's. If I change out the compressor, coil, and the plenum with Trane's, would there be a compatibility issue with the Carrier furnace (does not need to be replaced)? or should I stick with Carrier?

Answer 1

If the system is shot after only 4 years DO NOT have the original installer put in a new system. If the system is failing that quickly it is probably because of a poor installation. You want a competent technician installing your new one, not the hack that did it wrong the first time.

What did your Home Inspector say about the AC system during his visit? Look back through his report, if he mentioned that there were problems then contact a HVAC contractor in your area who has a good reputation. Ask around, you can find someone who is honest and competent in just about any area. Get his opinion on the condition of the unit. There is no reason for a 4 year old system to be failing. I have seen systems that are 8-10 years old that have no other problem than just being dirty when the homeowner didn't even know where the filter was located. I commonly see 18-24 year old systems that are still running with very little maintenance.

Answer 2

The compressor should not be failing when it is 4 years

old, go to the Carrier Canada website, customer support and see if warranty info is available for your unit, if not send them an e-mail.

Your plenum coil may have failed due to a lack of maintenance ( improper condensate drainage ).

Would recommend you also ask Carrier about this or contact a reputable factory authorized dealer, they are listed on the web site.

Judging by the fact you are talking about replacing your system with Trane equipment I must assume the person who serviced it for you is not a Carrier dealer,

I would be careful, definetly get another opinion, Carrier makes a quality product it seems suspect that

your compressor is already failing.

Also if you do decide to replace your AC unit if you upgrade to a system with a higher energy efficency rating you may be able to apply for a government funded rebate.

Answer 3

First get another opinion.

The compressor would be covered under a standard 5 year warranty.

Labor and all other materials,shipping would not be covered unless you purchased an extended warranty that covers that.

It wont matter on the brand of furnace for compatibility, just the A/C condenser and evaporator coil need to be rated for each other.

Unfortunately this kind of expense requires a second opinion.

It will cost another service call but you could get another price for replacement at the same time if needed.

Misdiagnosis can cause unneeded expense.

Answer 4

The word here is SCAM!

Although you have a low quality system, it's still in parts warranty.

With 35 years in the HVAC business as a tech, I still can't predict compressor failures with any meter.

I deal with this day in and day out. "XYZ said it's shot and can't be repaired."

I fixed one for less than $200.00 last week. Had another a while back that I simply reconnected the wires that were disconnected.

Ditch that bunch, find a locally owned and operated shop and deal with them. Check with the BBB, Angies List, your neighbors ans coworkers to see who they use.

Answer 5

I think he is full of it.p**p.If the compressor is still pumping there is absolutely no need to replace it.

Sounds like he is just itching to sell a new install.

How many reidential techs go around megging the compressors on a pm check?I know of not a single one.

Is it cooling o.k.?

Rest easy if it is.Don't even get a second opinion if you don't want to.

If and when you do change out one or the other you could mix and match them.It's your house.

I wouldn't go with either one of them though.I would go with a Goodman.They are far less expensive than a Trane or Carrier and have fantasic warranties.Good luck.

Remember, if it is cooling o.k.and keeping up with the load,don't worry.

Answer 6

I think you need a second opinion. The chances of having the whole system bad is highly unlikely. Some company's pay their servicemen commission on what is sold. My opinion is don't replace until you have to.