Heat Pumps and Electric Heating - Need Reco on New Heat Pump system in MD

My heat pump compressor shorted. It has an estimate of $2000 for repairs. So I am considering replacing the system (tax credit also helps).

I would like to go for a good efficiency and good quality system as I would stay in the home for a while. Price is a consideration, but not the most important one.

Since the old system used R22, I am told I have to replace the outdoor and the indoor units both. the current system is 3.5T.

I would request recommendations on systems ? I am confused between Bryant, Carrier, American Std, Trane and Lenox!

Can someone please help!

Md

these are the min specs one should look for in a new HP system.

15 SEER, 12.5+ EER, 9 HSPF
best rated matching var speed air handler
full BTUs in both cooling and heating for rated size
R-410a refrigerant
new lineset preferred
scroll compressor preferred
electronic demand defrost preferred
thermostat with "dehumidify on demand" feature
staged backup heat strips

The Fed Govt will offer up to a $1500 tax credit for qualifying systems the next two years. It would be a mistake to leave this on the table by not upgrading. see link for details.

my personal favorites are the following:

Trane XL15i or sister mdl Am Std Heritage 15
Carrier Performance 15 "H" mdl or sister mdl Bryant Preferred 15

Let me know if you have any questions.

IMO
:)


Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency : ENERGY STAR (http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits#c3)

Thanks a lot. This is very helpful.

Do you imply that all the 4 models that you have mentioned qualify for Tax Credit ?

Also do all the 4 models have the desired features you have mentioned ? i.e.
- 410A refrigerant
- Scroll compressor
- electronic demand defrost thermostat
- staged back-up heat strips

What do you mean buy "dehumidify on demand" feature ?

I just got a Tech who suggested increasing the size of the system to 5T, after doing some BTU calculations. The original in the house was 3.5T.

My question is that can I increase the capacity of the Heat Pump and AHU without changing the ducting ?

First off when Tiger answers your post, you have a Tiger in your tank. The man knows what he's talking about.

3.5 to 5 tons is a big jump. Btu calcs? Did he do a load calc? Measure rooms, use a laptop with a load program, or just guess? Will you be upgrading windows, insulation, etc.?

"dehumidify on demand" means the A/C will continue to run to 3 degrees below set point to reduce the humidity in the home.

Look at the warranty you get with the system as well. I like Nordyne products as they come with 10 year warranty.

Doubt your current ductwork can handle a 5 ton unit. Just asking for noise/performance problems if it can't. You need a load calc before changing any sizing. Did the old unit keep the home comfortable?