[M2inOR]

For us, it was easy. In Oregon, we had a large house with 2 heat pumps and 2 gas furnaces for backup heating when outside temps dropped down below 35°.

Over 45 years, we replaced all systems except gas furnaces 3 times. Average life was 12-15 years.

Original systems were no name generics that only lasted a few years. First replaced with Lennox, then Trane, and finally with Carrier.

We had annual contracts, and systems were checked every 6 months. Lennox failed after 10 years, but could not be repaired due to lack of replacement parts. Replaced by Trane systems that failed in year 9 of a 10 year warranty contract. Last systems were Carrier, and they were the best.

Happy to see Carrier in wide use south of 44. We've had our home in Marsh Bend for almost 6 years. Still have annual maintenance contracts with checkup by Sun Kool every 6 months. Only failure has been capacitor, which I replaced myself but let Sun Kool know for records. Complete systems checkup to make sure freon levels are ok.

Only changes made was addition of UV lights for bacteria control.

We keep systems set to 77° for cooling, 70° for heating, and units set to come on for air circulation once per hour. Also keep overhead fans on low all the time.

Why a contract? Peace of mind.