I have a heat pump going in on an upcoming job. My mechanical sub has recommendations, but I would like to see some reviews or rankings of the different manufacturers and their units. Anyone know where to find stuff like that?
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I have a Bryant, went through three hurricane no problem
At HVAC-talk.com every dealer thinks their brand is best, a lot like to trash Goodman as it is the lowest price. (Have bought and installed 2 Goodman's myself, no problems except the air handlers can benefit from the addition of a brace or 2). Pulling a good vacuum and assuring cleanliness and proper charge is more important than brand differences assuming a scroll compressor.
There is some consensus that whatever the brand, the use of a Copelend Scroll compressor is a great benefit.
agree on copeland scrollconsumer reports did a SURVEY of their readers experiences with heat pumps recently
best were trane / amer. std. and rheem/ruud.
The HVAC guy recommended a certain American Standard model for our house and I checked out their website on this particular model. I was amazed at the huge array of various sizes, efficiencies, and features. I suspect most other manufacturers present the same options.
I think it's important to consider the local cost of electricity and the climactic conditions. In our area electricity is relatively inexpensive, and while we do get snow, we've got a relatively mild winter. This means that paying the extra cost of an ultra-efficient heat pump would be a false economy. We opted for a mid efficiency model, exactly what was recommended. Your milage may vary, depending on climate and electrical costs.
Scott.