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Originally Posted by gorillarick
I had a high-end unit with variable fan speed in my unit just before I moved here. Fan outside failed, independent tech said you want to spend $1200 to replace that unit, or $350 for a fixed speed unit. 20 years old, it was a no brainer.
He told me the controls (like circuit boards) for these units are much many times more expensive also.
Replaced my TV unit last September. I opted for the highest rated (SEER) single stage, fixed speed unit. Got rebate; but not as much as a higher SEER.
Salesman started by pitching the high SEER units. Smiled when I asked if it would ever pay for itself, and came back to Earth.
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When you have to replace an infrastruture device like a HVAC system, refrigerator, washer, dryer, etc., you don't do it to get a return on investment on cost. It's something you have to have so you go out and get it. The question then is do I get the basic or upgraded device? Many are cost driven so they get the cheapest they can find. Others consider the convenience, better user experience, comfort, cost savings, etc., and may decide to get an upgraded unit. It's the same for the HVAC system. All the reliable companies operating here in the Villages always offer you the basic, mid-range and then the top of the line system. All have pros and cons. These companies know there are Villagers who will only want the cheapest replacement for whatever reason and there are those who want the most comfort now that most of us are in the last chapter of our lives which is hopefully a long chapter.
With the newer variable speed systems, when they first came out there were a lot of problems due to power surges and during the pandemic a shortage of chips which lead to a shortage of parts. Same was the case for the mini splits many are installing. They are just a different version of the variable speed heat pump. Now, when the system is installed they also install a surge protector at the outside condensor which has minimized these circuit boards from pre-maturely failing. No more chip shortage so no more part shortage.
Let's now address the new freon refrigerant. So, over the years freon has gone through an evolution getting replaced with new formulations to address the effects on the environment. Whether you agree or not, its just the way it is and has happened many times. As of 1/1/25, there was a new replacement yet again. The result was around a 5% increase in price for the newer systems which is expected to increase about the same amount each year for while for many reasons. But there is a silver lining. On the newer variable speed systems, along with the price increase there has been improvements in cooling and heating efficiencies for heat pumps. So, you pay a little more but may save on electric usage.
You also need to consider what's in our control and what's not. When we talk about efficiency and electric usage, many will downplay this aspect since there is no way to get a return on investment for cost paying for a more expensive machine. But we do know that electric rates continue to rise over time and there is nothing we can do about it so you may be kicking yourself for not getting a more efficient system down the road if rates continue to go up.
There are many reputable installers out there and they will all have their opinions so it's best to do the research, watch some Youtube videos, get educated, decide what you want because you will be living with it for a long time, then research and select the best installer to do the job. As I've mentioned, if you decide on the variable speed inverter system like a Carrier Infinity you may have to go with one of the larger HVAC companies that have the resourses, tools and training to install and maintain these newer systems. Eventually, eventhough they have been out for about 10 years, they will be more common place and all HVAC companies will be installing them. Finally, since these systems should last from 10-15 years you may also consider a company who you feel will still be around in this time frame if you have a labor warranty. Hope this helps.