Carrier air conditioner, heat pump recall

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on November 7 announced the recall of about 185,000 Carrier Corp. packaged terminal air conditioners (PTAC) and packaged terminal heat pumps (PTHP) due to a fire hazard.

For detailed information on the recalled air conditioners and heat pumps, go to the manufacturer’s recall page or read the CPSC's announcement.

If you own one of the affected models, do not use the heating mode until it has been inspected as per Carrier's instructions. You can contact Carrier (800-761-8492, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) to receive a free repair.

Comments

[Judi]

I have a Carrier 38GS that's stopped working. Should I be concerned i.e. is it better to replace it with a new unit (new company)or to get it fixed?

Thanks.

[Mark Cohen]

At the risk of sounding stupid, I have a question to throughout here. I have a Carrier heat pump model #FB4A with a fan controller board #HK 61EA-002. The unit first blew the 5A fuse on the board and when replaced blew the fuse again after running 9 hours. This time it took out the fuse and the transformer (240VAC-24VAC @ 40VA). The transformer (not mounted on the board) has a protection that opens the primary if there is a short on the secondary. In troubleshooting the short, I determined that the controller board was shorting out the 24VAC when mounted to the inside of the unit. The board is mounted with two screws to the inside wall of the unit. If I removed one of the two screws the short went away. I tried a second board with the same results. The unit is running fine with just the one screw holding the board in place. The board is not touching somewhere else and shorting (sits on metal standoffs attached to the board) and worked fine before this incident with both screws mounting the board. Although the screw I am leaving off is marked as a grounding position. The board is also grounded by connecting cables via spade connectors to the board.

Most readers are probably thinking if it works, what’s the problem? I am just curious why. I would appreciate hearing from anyone else that has seen this or problem or can give a possible explanation?

[Ernest Mulich]

I am in the process of changing out my Central A/C system. Is there any information about which is the best buy on a news system?

I have quotes from Carrier, Train, Comfortmaker, Bryant and Amana.

My system is 3 tons, cooling/heating 1500 sf.

Ernest Mulich

[lynn]

Could you tell me if a Carrier comfort series is the same unit as Bryant legacy line. I am told that Bryant is a Carrier product and manufactured by carrier and the same product.
Thank you
Lynn

[lynn]

how do I contact Ernest Mulich that posted a question about units as I have information and research on all that he's asking, or email him my address if possible
Thank you,
lynn

[Mary Jo Kruer]

We are in the process of obtaining quotes for a heat-pump/hybrid HVAC system using a gas furnace as back-up. Do you have ratings that would help us make a well-informed decision?

Thanks,
Mary Jo

[Kathi]

In response to "Posted by: Ernest Mulich | Aug 9, 2008 10:19:23 AM". We bought a Trane heat pump in 2004 and have nothing but problems with it. From what I understand, it uses the new coolant not freon and requires the coolant to be at a higher pressure level. Initially the unit had a problem which we think is an engineering issue as two lines were so close together that they rubbed from the friction/motion and caused leakage. Each summer we seem to loose coolant since the valve stem fails and has to be replaced. This summer, after replacing the valve stem last month, we are now told that the evaporator coil froze up due to a leakage and that it and the filter drier need to be replaced. Until they replace those components, they are not able to do a full end2end test to determine if there are any other problems. So in your search for a new system, you might want to factor this info into your final decision.

[Jack Holcomb]

I have been told that a Kenmore furnace,Air Conditioner, is identical to a Carrier system with the name changed to Kenmore ??

[Sharon]

I am in the process of buying a new furnace and heat pump. My house is 2 floors totalling 3000 sq. ft.
Have had quotes for high eff. Carrier MVB and 3 ton 15 seer carrier heat pump.

Also had a quote for carrier single stage furnace 80% with a heat pump.

Also had a quote for High eff. Amana 95% along with a heat pump. We were told that you don't need as high a furnace as the heat pump will do most of the job and that the furnace will kick in if it goes down to around minus 3. If this true

So right now am confused about what to buy

[Terry Wendorf]

Here is some information that I received from my energy assessment: I am also confused and not sure whether to just upgrade my gas furnace... or to purchase a heat pump and electric furnace, but will then have to upgrade my electrical panel. I've read a lot of stories from folks about bad experiences with heat pumps so I am not so sure now.
All savings are calculated from the base case - the house as it is with
>> the old furnace:
>> - install 96% AFUE natural gas furnace with variable speed motor - save
>> $482 per year.
>> - install an electric furnace with variable speed motor - save $40.75
>> per year (makes sense because although it is more efficient, it uses a
>> more expensive `fuel`)
>> - use current furnace and install air source heat pump (hspf=9.0) - save
>> $801.69 per year.
>> - install a 96% n.g. furnace with variable speed motor and air source
>> heat pump (hspf=9.0) - save $919.53 per year.
>> - install an electric furnace with variable speed motor and air source
>> heat pump (hspf=9.0) - save $917.93 per year.

[Stephen Carman]

Frankly I'm surprised that the number one energy user in homes is not rated by Consumer Reports especially during the time of most need. Consumer's has dropped the ball.

[John Maguire]

It seems to me that at least the repair data should be available like it is for most... appliances!!

[Edward]

Any suggestions on where I can get some comparison and/or rating data on electric furnaces? I currently have an old and inefficient electric furnace and merely wish to replace it. We live in a moderate climate in the Northwest.

[John Fernandez]

I have purchased a Trane Hybrid system. A 95% AFUE variable speed fan gas furnace with a 16 seer dual stage Heat Pump intalled on October 8, 2008. This replaced an Armstrong 80% AFUE furnace and an 8 seer Air Con. unit that were only 7 years old. I did this to lower my monthly bill. Also should get a $500 rebate from Trane and between Oct. & Apr. I recieve a half price electric rate on any kwhr over 700kwhr as long as the heat pump is the primary source for heating. After reading some this conments I will cross my fingers. The jury is still out my system. I have heard many complaints about Heat Pumps but ithouht I'd take a chance, also purchased an extended 10 year parts & labor warranty, since I reside in Nortwest IN.

[Larry Sparks]

What is Consumer Reports recommendation for Air Conditioners in the phoenix, Arizona area for a house of 1800 Square feet? Please advise ASAP, thank you.

[Philippe]

I am about to replace furnace and AC units. I received several quotes for Bryant, Payne, GoodMan and Day&Night. All 4 quotes are in te same price range. I could not find any rating by brand or model for central AC and furnace. Any idea where I could get such list?

Thank you,

Philippe

[Patricia]

I also am looking for a new heat pump to replace my 6 year old Goodman AC which I'm moving over to a rental house with a worn out AC. My HVAC guy suggests I get a unit using R22 while still availabe as none of the manufacturers have redesigned their equipt. to handle the higher pressures run on the units using the newer 410A refrigerant. What he says seems to make sense. Does anyone have any insight on this point? Also he is a big fan of Trane/American Standard and doesn't think much of Amana...something about the copper coils oxidizing and lowering the seer over time. I'd really appreciate any comments.

Thanks,
Patty

[rob onciul]

I'm in the process of purchasing a hi-end furnace. I won't touch Carrier but am looking at Lennox and Goodman. Which is best?
Where can I compare the various makes, pro & cons of furnaces???

[rob onciul]

I'm in the process of purchasing a hi-end furnace. I won't touch Carrier but am looking at Lennox and Goodman. Which is best?
Where can I compare the various makes, pro & cons of furnaces???

[Donald Lamb]

I'm in the process of upgrading my six year old two 1-1/2 ton York system, and would welcome information on the different vendor products as well. I need additional capacity for my basement, which has no HVAC at present. I'm also very disappointed with York products that, in fairness, may not have been properly maintained by the previous (and original) owners of the home.

I have proposals from American Standard, Carrier, and Amana for SEER 14/16 units (2 Ton and 3 Ton, respectively) with dual-stage compressors, variable-speed air handlers, humidifiers, and electronic air cleaning. However, I want to ensure that I buy a quality system, and all of the reviews I've read identify issues with all of them.

Thank you.

[Jackie]

I am thinking of replacing my RUDD heat pumps of 13 years with a Goodman. Do you have any comparison data on heatpumps? This would be very helpful. Thanks.

[Tammia Ware]

I would advise anyone I know not to purchase a Goodman heat pump.
I haven't had my heat pump a year and a half, the compressor went down. Yes, the part was under warranty but I had to pay $600.00 for labor. Never would I purchase a heat pump from Chattanooga Heating & Air. These off brand units needs to be out lawed. These manufactories are ripping us off but now that I am aware of what and who's taking advantage of us as customers, I will spread the word.

Goodman products aren't worth purchasing!

[Lynn Wolfe]

We are purchasing a new heat and air system and are comparing Trane, Lennox, Carrier and Amana...any recommendations?

LW

[Wild Bill Burton]

I live in western Kentucky and we had a heat pump/air conditioner installed in 2006 used the furnace that was in the house for back up. It is a Goodman brand. Never had one problem in three years.

[Hazel Piatt]

Looking for a new heat pump/ air unit around 4 ton. Want to see ratings and compare consumer reports information by brand. Not by price.
Need ASAP.

Thanks
Member
H. Piatt

[Cindy Olson]

Have estimates to replace 3.5 ton Trane ac unit - apparently need to go to 4 ton since no more 3.5 ton, but Trane or Lennox (which has a higher seer and a $1500 tax writeoff).... Prices are comparable, but don't know much about Lennox

[Joe]

Looking to replace a 10 year old Winchester (made by York) 80% gas furnace with something better. Have an estimate for an Amana 95% gas furnace with 13SEER a/c condenser unit for $4700.00. I've gotten an estimate for an American Standard 95% with same size condenser for about $3700.00. Is one any better than the other?

Thanks!

[elaine]

We are thinking of replacing our 4 ton air conditioner and are confused as to which one to buy. We live in southern florida with a north south exposure. Our home is 2300 square feet with 14 foot ceilings. We received quotes from Trane and Carrier. Which one is best. Hoping to hear from you soon. Thanks, Elaine & Larry

[Mark Jordan]

I replaced my 1996 Carrier 10 SEER heat pump and air handler with a new Goodman 14 SEER heat pump and new air handler in June. It worked fine until around December when it began to growl every time the heat pump would kick on. The colder it got, the louder to growl, and in temperatures below 20, it got so loud that it would wake me up at night. The installer has suggested that I add a coolant warmer, which I'll do soon, but sees nothing wrong with the unit, despite the fact that I haven't realized in decrease in the number of KW hours on my electric bill. Goodman won't even talk to the consumer, period. At this point, I'd have to suggest against Goodman.

[stan fritz]

Very disappointed... no info on household a/c, hvac systems. Such systems and their installaton can cost more than a car!!

[Pat]

I only moments ago subscribed to Consumer Reports as a recommended source for central air conditioner recommendations, having exhausted attempts to find information elsewhere. My mistake thinking it would help me make an informed decision on the biggest investment in my home I've undertaken to date. Thanks for nothing.

[Lynne]

I second Pat's April 8th comment. I too, just moments ago, subscribed to Consumer Reports in order to research gas furnaces. I wasted my money.

[Janice Gaddy]

We are replacing our 10 year old carrier heat pump and have gotten quotes from several brands. Carrier, Lennox and Trane. Which one is the best? We have a house a little under 2400 sq feet and they are quoting 4 ton 15 Seer. We live in South west Florida.

Thank you.

[Anita]

I, also, have been trying to see what Consumer Reports has to say about central air conditioners. I agree that, so far, this site is a waste of money

[Terry McKenna]

I agree with:

Posted by: Tammia Ware | Mar 6, 2009 9:37:22 AM

I have a Goodman that was installed by my builder in May of 2007 and it has had 2 freeon leaks and the compressor just failed. I've had nothing but trouble with Goodman and I'll never buy that brand.

[Lynn Morgan]

I am also very dissapointed that there are no ratings for HVAC systems. This is a huge investment, and I have not been able to find any ratings. I can't believe Consumer Reports would leave us subscribers in the lurch like this.

[Janice]

Will CR be publishing an analysis on heat pumps and electric forced air furnaces in the near term? I'm in the process of getting estimates and live in western NYS. One installer uses American Standard. The other uses Goodman. It's such a big expense, I need more info. Thanks!

[Le]

I appreciate the information on gas furnances and humidifiers, but was disappointed that you all have no recommendations or information on heatpumps.
We are in the process of replacing a 10 SEER heatpump and 8 AFUE furnance. Bids for a 2700 sf house are $9-10K. I always rely on your recommendations and price ballpark to make these big decisions.

[Ed Nettestad]

Ditto: I just subscribed last night in order to try to wade through the information I've received from several central AC companies. All say "they are the best". I sure thought CR would have an exhaustive analysis on central AC units, especially with the energy crunch and the significant dollars involved. I am VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!
Does anyone have any good advice? I live in the Tampa, FL area.

[Sharon]

I agree with people who said that Consumer Reports has been quite useless for information on heat pumps. I would think that in a depression and in the context of global warming, it would be more important to provide information on cooling systems than on popcorn poppers! Gonna cancel at the first opportunity.

[Lois Howard]

We are in the process of purchasing replacement cen tral a/c system and have quotes for an Amana, a Comfortmaker and a Goodman. Which system would you recomend. I would also appreciate any suggestions as to what system I should look into. Naturally with todays economy we are trying to watch the dollars.
Thank You

[Vicky Merry]

This CR did nothng for me on Heat Pumps. Why bother to even have paid for such a useless throw away sight. I would do better next time asking my 2 year old.

[RB]

I have a question about the quality of an Amana 4 ton, 14 seer heat pump that was purchased in late 2005. The compressor went out after only 2 1/2 years and was replaced under warranty. With the coolant and labor cost the replacement was $650.00. Now, 14 months later, the compressor has gone out again and will again cost for coolant and labor. I can not afford to do this every year! I bought the subscription to consumer reports for help in finding out about quality ratings on this unit and there is nothing here. I too am disappointed. Is there any way that you can help me? Thank you!

[Janice Sheehan]

I actually subscribed to get ratings on central air conditioning and have spent over 45 minutes trying to find some. How disapointing. It also seems to me that most of these items that are reviewed are products that the purchaser would buy and install themselves. I also would like to say that I don't see any longevity ratings or warranty coverage for these products. It seems to me that whatever something is supposed to do it should be backed up in some kind of warranty, only because it could do outstanding at its job but only covered by manufacturer's warrany for a year then your out the money if it goes out.

[jim davis]

This site has been a big disappointment. Information on air conditiong is pathetic.

I will get the word out on the internet. This website is a rip off.

[Phil Hearne]

I am surprised at the negative comments about CR's offerings on heat pumps and central air. It is easy to determine, before subscribing, which products CR has tested: you buy an issue for a few bucks or go to your public library and read it there!! CR is the only unbiased source of performance information on a zillion products. Its resources are limited, and it has to make choices, like any other non-profit or business, as to its goals.

Give the magazine a break and be thankful for the wealth of information it provides in opposition to all the corporate claims we deal with every day!!

[Steve]

Like the others I subscribed for heat pump info only. I foolishly thought, of course, CR would have info on that. DUH!

I am replacing a Rheem system that has been problematic. (DO NOT BUY A RHEEM OR YOU WILL GET RHEEMED!) Advice via Google brings up conflicting info from all sorts of alleged AC pros. Opinions are all over the map and there is no consensus. Is Bryant the same as Carrier? Some say absolutely yes others absolutely no. Which features should I specify?

I am willing to pay for quality but I can not figure out what brand is selling the quality. That's why I turned to CR but now I find CR is just as clueless as I am. Thanks for nothing!

[Julian]

This company is a total rip off if your in hopes of info on heat pumps. I AM TOTALLY DISGUSTED AND I WILL CANCEL ASAP. I AGREE IT IS A MAJOR PURCHASE AND WE DEAERVE AT LEAST SOME INFO ON THE AVAIL UNITS. I ONLY JOINED FOR THE HEAT PUMP INFO AND THANKS TO BLOGGERS I DO HAVE SOME FEELINGS ABOUT WHAT NOT TO PURCHASE IN THEIR OPINION.

[The ac Guy]

Dont buy carrier!!! Trust me, I work on more Carriers than I do anything else. Its all ways seem to be the samething over and over again. Low on puron, leak in the Evap. coil after about 2 years. I hear the same story all day long. "My builder sent the ac company to the house and they said it was just alittle low" Dont buy Carrier

[Tom]

I have had a Goodman heat pump since May 2002. No problems. Just had a checkup and the independent air conditioning service tech said that the unit was in great shape - No problems noted.
My next door neighbor has a Goodman and the whole unit had to be replaced after several years. Who knows which company to go with.

I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED IN THE LACK OF TESTING FOR HVAC UNITS BY CONSUMER REPORTS. CONSUMER REPORTS IS GREAT FOR TESTING TOASTERS, ETC. BUT FOR REAL LARGE COSTLY ITEMS THEY SEEM TO LACK THE INFORMATION ONE PURCHASES CONSUMER REPORTS FOR.

[guy]

VERY FRUSTRATED and DISAPPOINTED. RIDICULOUS !

THOUGHT I COULD FIND RATING ON CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING; HOWEVER, NO!!!!!!!!! NOTHING.

WASTE OF MONEY.

VERY COMMON APPLIANCE. WHY DON'T THEY DO SOME TESTING?

GUY

[David]

I am really disappointed with CR in reference to information related to Central air and heat. This is a high dollar purchase item and when installed is pretty much there to stay. At lest CR could provide SEER and basic info for various units. There must to be some information on the many manufactors of AC/heat pumps. I just signed with CR today but will cancel tomorrow. I have contractors coming tomorrow and would like to be able to make a educated decision

[Zia Kondkar]

I have been a member close to 20 years (with 43 year break when I was overseas) and have been mostly satisfied with various reports that CR publishes. Am horrified to note that CR has not tested Home Air-conditioning systems. With awareness for ecology and energy conservation, CR has let its members down by not addressing one of largest single energy consuming item in an average household. Yet CR did Interior Paint and Exterior Paint evaluation 3/4times in the 10 years!
I replace my cars at an average of 4 years and yet CR reports on cars every year - sometimes twice a year! Shame on CR
zeeman

[Bob]

I had a brand new 14 SEER Goodman A/C installed in 6/07. I have had nothing but problems with it. A year after it was installed, the capacitor blew, and now the compressor has blown. It is not even 2 years old. I'll never purchase another Goodman!

[Sylvia]

I agree with all of the other people about this site. I subscribed this afternoon to check information on heat pumps , I am trying to find the ratings on Bryant Heat Pumps and Comfortmaker Heat Pumps, so that we can make an intelligent informed decision as to which unit would be better. I have gotten NO help from this site atall. I really feel like I have been grabbed.

[Scott Helbig]

I am also very disappointed to have subscribed to this site, to not find any ratings and to feel ripped-off! Friends at work said to subscribe to Consumers to find out the best for your money. I think I'm going to work tomorrow and punch them twenty-six times for every dollar I wasted!

[Roxane]

I also like most others that posted, signed up to find out how the a/c brands rated. Truly waste of my money and will be cancelling my subscription. I was very disappointed when all I could find was window units! I thought CR rated everything important, this one , in my opinion, is a major purchase that needs research on before you buy a lemon!

[Dee]

My 23yr old 7 SEER Carrier heat pump has finally died. It is a split system (one unit inside, one unit outside) air source unit. The more online research I do, the more confused I am becoming. The HVAC guy recommended replacing w/ 2.5 ton, 13 SEER, 7.7 HSPF. The house is a 2400sq ft basement rancher located in East TN. I hope to sell the home within 3-5yrs. Does anyone have good advice and/or recommendations?

[Rob]

Subscribed to this website to get ratings and info. about central air and gas furnaces. Where are they? I just wasted my money. Thanks for nothing CR. Cancel my subscription.

[Stan Stevenson]

We, like others who have written in would appreciate some sort of rating of brands.
We have two different quotes on a furnace/air conditioning replacement.
One is for an Amana system and is considerably higher than the other which is Lennox. They seem to be quite similar in size, etc.

Would go with the lower one if I felst they were similar in quality and dependability. Or is the costlier one, worth it?

Thank you

[Jonieta]

I am also disappointed! I was looking for information on heat pumps. Our Trane is 17 years old and ready to "go" any day - and I need current recommendations. Please consider evaluating heat pumps.... SOON.

[Betty]

Very, very disappointed. Need information replacing central air conditioner. I'm unpleasantly surprised Consumer Reports has done nothing on something so expensive and so important.

[Katherine]

We also signed up to get information on furnaces and heat pumps and were disappointed with the lack of information. I hope reviews are done soon, but I wonder if they aren't done because of the big impact installation has on how the system performs. Everything I've read has said the installer is more important than the brand.

[Stan]

Just echoing comments above. My sister needs a new heat pump, no info here to be helpful. Other internet searches have comments all over the map, with various brands being highly praised by one customer and panned by another. CR, we need more help with this type of high-dollar purchase!! How about doing a major spread on HVAC and heat pumps!!!

[Ray]

Same issue here. My Goodman A/C compressor crapped out 2 days ago due to lightning strike (unit is 8 years old and haven't had any major issues). Luckily insurance is going to pay some $$ as long as I give them the compressor to show all 3 circuits are fried. The price to replace the compressor ($1800) is about half the cost of just having a new condensor unit, evaporator unit and new line set installed and going from a 2.5 ton to a 3 ton and gain more efficiency by going to 14 seer ($3400-$4000) - going to 15 seer requires a new furnace and just way too pricey $$ ($7000+). And if you want your goverment stimulus money of $1500.... you have to spend about $7-8k to get the required minimum efficieny. So doing research online led to few if any conclusions on which brand is better. So doing my research consumer reports led me to believe they had this marvelous write up about central air conditioner buyers guide... sounded great. But just like everyone else I was extremely disappointed in the "buying guide" basically same stuff you can read anywhere else for free with no comparisons of say how a Lennox, Carrier, Tappan, etc... unit compares on reliability, cost, customer complaints, etc.. So I too will remove my subscription as I don't need a new car or new toaster.... luckily I just signed up for a month.

PS - Anyone out there have any really good or bad experience with a Lennox or Tappan 3 ton AC with the new 410A refrigerant? Both give same warranty but cost diff is about $600.

[Lin Wade]

Mega ditto's to all who are suprised there is no info on heat pumps. I too subscribed so I could get info on an immediate need to replace a Heat Pump.What a disapointment.

[Rich Bassemir]

I am another disappointed reader that has found little help in making an informed decision on a major central A/C unit purchase. I would like to see CR do some work in this area. With a $1500 tax credit I am sure there will be a lot of us in the market for a new unit. Everything I found on this site so far says there is little "statistical" difference between units. That does not help my decision. Glad I only signed up for one month. I probably will not renew.

[keno]

I am soooooooooo hurt by the same lack of info on AC/heat pumps by the CR! Every other modern make of good big and small seems to find its way under the mscope but this one. I set up the different meets with folks peddling everything from Trane to Carrier, Goodman, Amana, and lord only knows what else I still got two meetings left! They are all saying this is good that's ok but this is better. What the heck am I to believe! So I look to come to CR to get a mid/road untapped type of view and I got what everybody else got... nothing! Every one else is about money getting it or loosing it so I thought you guys were the ones to who were on our side I looked up to you for that...hope nothings changed.

[chong]

we have lennox heat pump it's about 17 years and custing us 5-7 hundred dollars every 2 years so thinking about replacing and what is best brand please let us know thank you

[Suzette]

I echo all the other comments above. My single purpose in signing up for this site was to get information on heat pumps, and there is NONE! I can't tell you how disappointed I am in Consumer Reports!

[Evlengr]

Glad I read all these posts. I was going to subscribe to find some info on heat pumps. Thanks for saving me money.

[Will]

Ouch!!! Had my credit card out ready to subscribe.
Glad I read this b4 subscribing.

[Mike Harrington]

I too have trusted consumer reports over the years and have to replace my heat pump and now have to go on little information in the decision process.

[Susan]

WELL, THANKS FOR NOTHING ON HEAT PUMPS. SEE I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO CAME LOOKING FOR IMMEDIATE HELP AS I HAVE TO REPLACE MY HEAT PUMP AND AIR HANDLER N-O-W....WANTED HELP BETWEEN A TRANE
AND CARRIER.....AND FOUND NOTHING. THIS IS A BIG TICKET ITEM
I AM GETTING READY TO PURCHASE AND WANTED SOME RATING TO STEER
ME IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. GOT NO HELP AT ALL AND AM GOING TO
BE SPENDING BETWEEN $7 AND $8,000.00...THANK FOR NO GUIDANCE
WHATSOEVER REGARDING HELPING ME MAKE MY DECISION.

[robert mc cann]

i have went through tran air handlers on my roof in the last six years,i live at the shore we get a lot of salt air,but the old ones that the other condo have are at least 15,yerrs old and still running,what is the best one for the weather, thank you.

[Ben]

Need heat Pump reliability info by brand. Trane is recommended highly but there are a lot of unsatisfactory posts concerning this brand.

[Ann]

Does Consumer Reports plan on reviewing furnaces and heat pumps in the near future? I also was hoping you had a lot more information.

[Heather]

Also disappointed to see there is NO heat pump info and purchased the annual membership for this purpose!
Beware: Each HVAC vendor says his product is the "best" and the sizing is all over the place...how can they "all" be recommended to meet the needs of my space? Also: double check the REBATE data on the IRS website...the vendors aren't knowledgeable and, unfortunately, WE are the ones who will be disappointed at tax time, when our unit does NOT qualify on SEER , EER and HSPF ratings...all three ratings have minimum standards to qualify!
come on Consumer Reports...we NEED YOUR HELP here!

[Sarah]

We are having to replace our HVAC system and are shopping. Our
current ac company, who has given us EXCELLENT service in the past, has quoted a price on an Atmstrong 14 seer 2.5 ton unit. Never heard of Armstrong...are they good/bad or otherwise?

Unit will be for a 1300 sq ft, one floor townhouse in coastal NC.

[Linda]

I also subscribed to CR for reliable information concerning the replacement of my HVAC heat pump system, but am very disappointed to find nothing to use for making a very expensive decision. Why else would I look to CR? I will cancel subscription after my first month.

[KL Tirpak]

It appears from all of these posts that Consumer Reports is still dropping the ball on helping consumers in need of central air conditioning comparisons and quotes. I see a lot of the same questions and needs and no answers. How does a 14SEER heat strip unit compare with a 15 SEER heat strip unit and which manufacturer provides the best product? Maytag currently is offering a12 year warranty on parts and labor. Is it worth it over the purchase of a Trane or Rheem model? Hoping for an answer in southern FL...

[Jenny]

Well, it's a start? CR finally released a HVAC reliability chart that shows Repairs/Brand. However, the fine print says that "differences of less than 5 points aren't meaningful". In that case, the entire chart isn't meaningful, because the results range from 10% to 16%. We still need the detailed analysis that CR does on other products. Please.

[Bowie, MD]

I am EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED that I subscribed to the CR!!!!! I am in need of an air conditioner and furnace and thought I too I know as much information subscribing to CR as when I did not. I feel that I wasted my money on this subscribtion as well as wasting my money with a 25 year old unit!!! Thanks CR for letting my air AND MY MONEY I PAID TO CR to got "out the window". I just cancelled my subscription.

[rd]

Our house has a Carrier/Bryant HVAC that is 14-15 years old. We have only lived in our house for 9 months and were recently told that the evaporator coil has a leak and will cost $855 to replace. I have had this repairman do repairs on our previous home's HVAC unit over the past 14 years and have found his work to be highly commendable. He recommended replacing the entire A/C unit with a Goodman unit using R22 refrigerant for $2395. This gave me several questions: What is Goodman? Why use R22 over R410a? Since this is a big purchase, what other units are out there and what do they cost?

Like many others on this blog, I have not found any worthwhile reviews of manufacturers' HVAC units, but I have found many negative opinions of nearly every brand of equipment out there, on this blog and other websites, which is making me a little scared! I'll try to summarize what I have learned below.

My understanding is that Goodman, unlike some of the other HVAC manufacturers, does not have a program to certify installers which seems to lead to many problems with their equipment. I did read that Goodman can be just as good as any other A/C, if you get a good contractor for installation. Based on that, ensuring that you get a good contractor is the first essential step. I recommend contacting the Better Business Bureau or a similar agency for this step.

As for R22 vs. R410a: R22 is a tried and true refrigerant that has been in use for several years, but has been thought to contribute to the thinning of the ozone layer due to the presence of chlorine in its chemical structure. R410a is an "environmentally friendly" refrigerant that is a blend of two compounds that do not have chlorine. Installation of R22 equipment has been legislatively banned after this year of 2009. The manufacture of R22 refrigerant will be allowed to continue until 2020. This poses several possible problems with R22's future. The manufacture of R22 may be discontinued sooner than 2020 based on demand; the price of R22 may skyrocket due to supply vs. demand issues; R22 availability may be very scarce in coming years, even with the ability to have it recycled. Use of R410a is a relatively recent technology and requires significantly higher pressures for operation. I don't have any real findings to say that R410a equipment is more problematic that R22 equipment. I have gotten three quotes for replacement and two of those have recommended the R22 over R410a, but I have a suspicion that they are trying to reduce their inventory of R22 equipment that will be worthless after the end of 2009.

I've had three different companies out for quotes. One was the Goodman R22 unit for $2395. Another offered a Lennox for $2300 (R22) or $2450 (R410a). Another offered York (R410a) for $3850.

I haven't made a decision yet, but have been leaning toward the Lennox R410a unit. Goodman is just an unknown to me and the York is so much more expensive. R410a is the governmentally dictated refrigerant of the future. The future supply of R22 is just too questionable at this time, which can be an especially much bigger problem in the future as a good central A/C system should be expected to last well beyond the R22 manufacturing cut off in the year 2020.

[Ronald]

I purchases CR because I need to replace (2) two 5 ton units. There is nothing telling me which units and how many SEER's that I should get. I'm disappointed but I'm sure CR will soon have help for me and all others who are looking for answers.

[Henry]

Bummer disappointing experience my twenty year old central air went out, no help no advice from reliable sources half of the AC technicians are school drop outs and the other half illegally working in this country, research well ask questions verify specifications from models seek the truth of how well the unit will reduce temperature in your home that is the true measure of SEER, if a unit is on for a prolonged period of time and temperature reduction is minimal the (SEER) voodoo word to hook desperate persons like myself to purchase useless undersize and overrated systems is just simply that voodoo. Rely on name brand is one choice that will reduce headache.

[Big Easy]

I am about to replace furnace and AC units. I received several quotes for Goodman and Heil. All 4 quotes are in te same price range.

I could not find any rating by brand or model for central AC and compressor.

Any idea where I could get such list?

One dealer said, "They are phasing out R-22 units.
=> If not she will have to replace her whole system inside and out with a R410 system in the near future.
=> They are offering $1500 rebates on a government approved whole R410A system replacements.
=> So why spend almost $1500 on just a compressor when she may be able to get a whole new R410A system close to that with the rebate."

Scare tactics to buy the whole unit rather than just the compressor that needs to be replaced?

Your quick reponse will be greatly apprecaited. Need to make decision today as it is blistering HOT right here in the South!

[Big Easy]

CR - let us know if you gonna do the A/C compressor & unit report.

All the posts you read does tell you something.

If it s on going, when it ll be published?

I m abit disappointed, also.

[sbd]

Disappointed there is no buying guide on central airconditioners. There is just window units. THe only thing on this website i am paying for is "expect to pay $6K or more"! Not worth the subscription fee and the hassle just to find that out.

[Chuck Flores]

I've just read through 4 pages of complaints about the lack of evaluations on home heat pumps. When do you plan to perform such tests?
Thanks

[Lang Ellis]

Add my voice to all the many other customers of CR.
I have a need to consider replacing SIX heat pumps and want to make intelligent decisions based on CR testings and recommendations.
There have been SO many other customers who've expressed the same thing.
Please serve your customers and post an announcement acknowledging this and letting us know WHEN you will provide this information.
Many of us are waiting to make these important purchases.

[renee]

We looked at the Amana brand but opted to go with Goodman as it was very similar but much less expensive. We purchased a 2.5 ton air conditioner and 95% efficient furnace and opted for the extended warrenty that covers parts but no labor. We have been really pleased with the reduction in our utilities bill. No problems. I think getting a good HVAC installer is also very important no matter what brand you decide on.

[Ana cruz]

I am very surprised that in spite of the many negative comments since May about not having information on central airconditioning that CR has not done anything. I am getting ready to replace one of our central air system so I subscribed an hour ago just to get reliable info. What a disappointment! Your ad appeared like you had some good info but it only turned out that all the recommendations you have are for window a/c's.

[Teresa Snyder]

I have used consumer reports online for buying a car, vacuum, kitchen stuff but am disapointed and surprised to find out their is nothing on Heat Pump systems.

[robert hoch]

I am a magazine subscriber, and a few minutes ago I signed up for your internet service at the additional price of $19. Like others, I thought I would find info on central air conditioners because you advertise that you have such info. Turns out you don't, and now I am out my $19. I'd like you to refund the money. I'll stick with the hard copy magazine for now.

[frank]

I have a 4ton for 2k sq ft home- it's 20 years old and time for a new AC. I paid to see what CR had to say - I was thinking of going to a 3ton. I only wish I read the reviews before I paid -- the good news is I only paid for one month and it sure will be my last month. Do you people even know what a SEER rating is?????

[david allen]

Similarly disappointed with CR lack of coverage on HVAC/heat pumps... We're replacing a 14-year-old "Arcoaire" 3-ton 9-SEER unit with a Comfortmaker 3.5-ton 15 SEER. It's the only make my professional installer would recommend based on price and overall low maintenance/repair history - trustworthy man; I've dealt with for years.

[M S]

Just now I subscribed to CR, hoping to get recommendation for home central air conditioner recommendations. Find nothing. All units shown are for small room a/c's. Not only I am out of $26.00 but also have gotten any where. Good job CR, for taking people's money before providing with information reg. what to expect. Capitalism is alive !!!

[larry]

August 5, 2009

Add our name to the list of the amazingly disappointed by CR not rating A/C and furnaces in the USA. High dollar and necessary in the modern world. Looking to compare highly marketed with not highly marketed brands as Trane to Tappan. Need who is who via PR advertising vs /quality.

[Brad]

Well i don't however share any bitterness or deceptive thoughts toward CR like most of these other people,I do however have a delima as to finding out which system really is the better buy for the buck . I mean if i'm going to spend thousands of dollars to cool my heels or get them toasty i would like a dependable system that'll keep my tushy warm . so if and when you can do an analysis on these systems i will definitely keep checking with you (CR) Thanks Brad from Indiana