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HeyBub[_3_]

wrote:

Thanks for the replies everyone,

Well after doing some digging, I think I can definitely get a better
deal. I found out my neighbor just got the same unit only with the
internal parts (air handler, heater, etc.) from the same company 6
months ago for $4500 installed. That's $3K less than what the guy
quoted me for everything. Needless, to say, I have the neighbor's
quote in hand and a manager coming out today.

I also have a friend of a good friend who works with AC coming out to
check things out. I'm sure he'll have some used parts/cash under the
table deals for me. I'm not real comfortable with the used route
though since the unit is so old and really not that efficient ($350+
electric bills) so I'm still considering just replacing everything
new.

How much more $$ is it to go up to a 14-15 or even 16 SEER rated unit?
Will I see the extra benefit in terms of cooling and electric costs
relative to the cost of the higher SEER unit? Some folks have
recommended Trane and Lennox as better brands to look into. Is
Amana/Goodman bad?

Back-of-the-envelope calculation follows:

I'm told a 16-SEER unit is in the neighborhood of 35% more efficient than
traditional models. In your case, assuming 80% of your $350 is for AC, that
means a savings of (mumble-mumble, carry the three...) about $100/month, or
(assuming AC 6 months/year), about $600/year in savings. Compared to $1000
repair, the additional $3500 translates to a six-year payback.

Feel free to adjust the numbers accordingly.