"Burhans" wrote in message
...
All,
I have recently been told my Heat Pump is Toast - 17 year old Ruud
unit..... I would like to only replace the heat pump and not the electric
air handler under the house. Can this be done?.... If so what questions
should I be asking the HVAC contractors?

Thanks

Yes and No. Depends on what kind of toast you prepared.

If the compressor did not burn out. Causing the freon to contaminate the
system then yes you could replace just the compressor unit (outside).
If the compressor was a burn out then you probably need a new line set and
coil (inside) It is impossible to clean them out. You would not put used
motor oil in your new car would you?

17 years old usually means pretty ineffeciant. Putting a Porsche out side
with a Model T inside will not get you high on the SEER meter. If you
staying in the home for 5 or more years then think about an upgraded system.
If your not then contact several contractors and find the price your
confortable with.
New units are sold as matched pairs so that the customer can get the
advertized SEER.