Air Conditioning - Which AC Manufacturer To Replace With?

I have a Trane XL1200 still running for 20 years. However this summer I developed a bad leak in the air handler in the attic. The inner pan is rusted/rotted. I think this is the time to replace the whole unit.


I listed my estimates below and appreciate this forums opinion. Existing duct work will be reused. Will replace with same 3 ton equivalent. Will want to make a decision and start this month.


I feel comfortable with the Lennox name although this is their low model line and replaces line set. Other choice is Tempstar, Option 4 for pricing which is an efficient unit with a tax credit but the installer will use the existing line set. Says he will clean out the lines. Is this a concern down the road? I thought the prices would be lower in between seasons? I am located in NY.

Sorry for the lengthy text but to make a long story short what is your opinion?



Option 1: $7,495 Arcoaire SEER 13 R410A indoor and outdoor units. Will REUSE existing copper line set.



Option 2: $5,200 Lennox SEER 13 R410A, 13ACX indoor and outdoor. Will replace the copper line set. Option 2A: $7,920 Lennox SEER 16, XC15 R410A indoor and outdoor. Will replace existing copper line set.



Option 3: $7,575 Trane SEER 13. Will replace existing copper line set.


Option 3A: $8,225 Trane SEER 15. Will replace existing copper line set.



Option 4: $5,600 Tempstar SEER 15 TXT+. Will REUSE existing copper line set. States he will clean copper lines with a flush. Is this effective?

I would want to get more estimates if time is no concern here. Its just my opinion and some may disagree but if the line set can be replaced without much trouble, by all means do it. The quality of the installation is key to the life of the unit. These lines should be sealed until the installation is done and a proper vacuum performed after they are soldered in.

i would go with option 3a with a ten year parts and labor warranty

Thank you for your quick replies. I should have added the warranty info. Price is a major factor.

Option 2 Lennox XC13 has a 5 year limited on compressor and all remaining components.

Option 2A Lennox XC15 has a 10 year limited on compressor and all remaining components.

Option 3 Trane 13 has a 5 year warranty on the compressor from the manufacturer, and five years parts and labor all functional parts from the manufacturer.

Option 3A Trane 15 has a ten year warranty on the compressor from the manufacturer, and ten year parts and labor on all functional parts from the manufacturer.

Option 4 Tempstart TXT+ has a 10 year NO HASSLE Replacement Warranty (replaces unit if the compressor or outdoor coil should fail) AND a 10 year compressor and parts limited warranty. This also has the Copeland Scroll Ultra Tech.

The negative is he will reuse the existing line set. I am going from a SEER 12 to a SEER 15. Would the line set size change to larger diameter?

I sure like the Tempstar for it's warranty, efficiency, quietness and price. Just concerned about this option since the line set is not replaced. From the quotes, 2 installers would replace and two would reuse line set.

in actual 410A can use smaller line sets than R22.

Over the years I replaced line sets in residential homes, then i got to think man I do a lot of condo's and I never replace the line set and everything is fine? Any one who says the always replace line sets have never bid a job on a multi level condo!
If the line set is easy to replace ask for it, it's just money and piece of mind.

Heres a link to a site with a great deal of info and reviews on this subject;

Search and Compare Air Conditioners, Boilers and Furnaces (http://www.furnacecompare.com/)