Quote:
Originally Posted by retiredguy123
People should understand that only about 5 percent of new units being sold today are variable speed, they are very expensive, more difficult to repair, and you will never recover the cost. If a variable speed unit would make my house more comfortable, I might buy one, but I don't think it would. Personally, I think that many people who buy these expensive units do so because a salesperson exaggerates the benefits. Do your own research.
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Well that used to be the case. From my recent experience the other day the cost of the newer variable speed units such as the Carrier Infinity is only a couple thousand more than the basic single speed units after the instant rebates that carrier is currently offering and the $2,000 federal tax credit. So, a typical single stage 16 SEER system is costing approximately $9,000 and the 22 SEER Variable speed is costing me $13.5K in the 4 ton system. Smaller units will be cheaper. This includes 10 year parts and full labor and if the compressor fails in the 10 year period, Carrier gives you a whole new condensor unit vs repair. All in writing. Apparently Carrier is fairly confident in the longevity and failure of the system to offer the 10 year parts and labor so inexpensively. In addition, you are looking at a 15 or 16 SEER system and moving to a 21 or 22 SEER system with a significanty more efficient heat rating down to -13 meaning at 30-40 degree weather we have here the system will be still running at high efficiency compared to the heat pumps we have now that struggle at 30-40 degrees. So, you will be saving a significant amount on electricity. Not enough to pay for the whole system but if you can save at least $50/month over 10 years thats $6,000 so if you add the $6,000 to the basic unit and its the same or close enouth to the Variable speed system you will save enough in electricity to cover the increase in cost. Some people say they were saving $100/month but I'll have to see what I actually save. It doesn't matter how expensive these units may be to repair if you have the 10 year parts and labor. After 10 -15 years you will be planning on replacement anyway so you are covered. As far as getting more comfort? That's what they say should happen and some here have reported a more comfortable home environment with the variable speed vs the single stage units. I'll let you know how I feel about this but given the technology it should be better, for sure in humidity and air purification. What is happening right now, and I don't know how long it will continue is with the new freon, many are scared to change so they are repairing instead of replacing. Manufacturers want you to purchase the newer more efficient units so they are offering steeper rebates to bring the cost down closer to traditional systems in an effort to get you to purchase the more expensive system. From recent research on the new freon, systems did increase in cost about 5% from last year but the newer systems are slightly more efficient so you may make up some of most of that increase in energy savings. In addition, HVAC systems are planned to go up an additional 5% for the next couple of years for all kinds of reasons so if you are planning on replacing your system, now may be a good time given all the rebates and credits.