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Monkeydad · 08-26-2010, 10:55 AM

8 years old and dead already? That's rough.

I'd get a second opinion. Can a component or part in the compressor be replaced instead of just putting a whole new unit in?

I had to replace my entire heat pump/AC system a few years ago. Reason why...a defrost control board went out. It was 17 years old...and the manufacturer made it a policy to stop producing and stocking replacement parts after 10 years. I could not locate the part ANYWHERE. It was basically just a small motherboard, but without it, the outdoor unit would not come on.

Being only 8 years old, I'd think you can get a replacement part if the it's just a single part needing replaced.

I don't see why it should cost that much, sounds like they're taking you for a ride with that "improve duct efficiency" suggestion. Unless the builders completely dropped the ball on the ductwork installation and didn't seal things up properly, I'd forgo the ducting work. Just get a unit that matches up with the existing ductwork.

Also, get this thermostat...LOVE IT...saves money too:

Buy Honeywell VisionPro 8000 Programmable Thermostat, 1 Heat/1 Cool | Honeywell TH8110U1003

If you DO have to go the replacement route...try to do what I did. I ordered a system and had it delivered to my house. Then, I found an HVAC tech who did it "on the side" for me for $500 plus about $25 in supplies he needed from his truck.

Cost of system including outdoor unit and indoor air handler = $1800 + programmable therostat, $140, + installation $525, total cost = just under $2500...for an entirely new system with 10-year warranty.

Then, I was able to deduct over $700 off my taxes for a credit because it's efficient.

I bought a Goodman system. They're VERY good units, have the best warranty in the business. They sometimes get a bad rep because they're one of the few companies that will sell directly to non-contractors, so people buy them and botch their self-installs. If installed properly by a pro or someone who knows what they're going...they're awesome. I love mine.

I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend this company, incredible service, great pricing and warranties:

Ingram's Water and Air

Buy Geothermal Heat Pump, Goodman Heat Pump, Goodman Air Conditioner online

They sell a lot of brands, not just Goodman.

08-26-2010, 10:55 AM	#3
Monkeydad Living Legend Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: PA Age: 46 Posts: 17,460	Re: Advice on a new HVAC unit 8 years old and dead already? That's rough. I'd get a second opinion. Can a component or part in the compressor be replaced instead of just putting a whole new unit in? I had to replace my entire heat pump/AC system a few years ago. Reason why...a defrost control board went out. It was 17 years old...and the manufacturer made it a policy to stop producing and stocking replacement parts after 10 years. I could not locate the part ANYWHERE. It was basically just a small motherboard, but without it, the outdoor unit would not come on. Being only 8 years old, I'd think you can get a replacement part if the it's just a single part needing replaced. I don't see why it should cost that much, sounds like they're taking you for a ride with that "improve duct efficiency" suggestion. Unless the builders completely dropped the ball on the ductwork installation and didn't seal things up properly, I'd forgo the ducting work. Just get a unit that matches up with the existing ductwork. Also, get this thermostat...LOVE IT...saves money too: Buy Honeywell VisionPro 8000 Programmable Thermostat, 1 Heat/1 Cool \| Honeywell TH8110U1003 If you DO have to go the replacement route...try to do what I did. I ordered a system and had it delivered to my house. Then, I found an HVAC tech who did it "on the side" for me for $500 plus about $25 in supplies he needed from his truck. Cost of system including outdoor unit and indoor air handler = $1800 + programmable therostat, $140, + installation $525, total cost = just under $2500...for an entirely new system with 10-year warranty. Then, I was able to deduct over $700 off my taxes for a credit because it's efficient. I bought a Goodman system. They're VERY good units, have the best warranty in the business. They sometimes get a bad rep because they're one of the few companies that will sell directly to non-contractors, so people buy them and botch their self-installs. If installed properly by a pro or someone who knows what they're going...they're awesome. I love mine. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend this company, incredible service, great pricing and warranties: Ingram's Water and Air Buy Geothermal Heat Pump, Goodman Heat Pump, Goodman Air Conditioner online They sell a lot of brands, not just Goodman. __________________ Not sent from a Droid, iPhone, Blackberry or toaster