need new air conditioner

[Challenger]

need new airconditioner. Who is trustworthy and company

[retiredguy123]

If i needed a new system, I would buy a Carrier unit from Munn's. I would get a standard, single stage compressor that will come with a 10-year parts and 5-year labor warranty. There is no need to sign up for an annual maintenance agreement, at least for the first few years. Also, don't buy a fancy variable speed or dual speed compressor. Too expensive and parts are more difficult to get.

Chuck Farrell is also a good company. You may save a little money with Farrell, but I don't think they are as readily available to service the warranty as Munn's, especially on weekends. Also, I don't think they sell Carrier units, which is the most common system in The Villages.

[dewilson58]

Sunshine AC

or

SunKool AC

[JMintzer]

Sunshine repaired my AC unit at 9:30 on a Saturday night, earlier this month... Couldn't be happier with their service...

[Bogie Shooter]

Munn’s is replacing my 19 year old Trane with a new Carrier, next Wednesday.
Yes, I know we have been told that has been a great run for our Trane!
Give Munn’s a call.

[Topspinmo]

need new airconditioner. Who is trustworthy and company


Munns IMO.

[Altavia]

If i needed a new system, I would buy a Carrier unit from Munn's. I would get a standard, single stage compressor that will come with a 10-year parts and 5-year labor warranty. There is no need to sign up for an annual maintenance agreement, at least for the first few years. Also, don't buy a fancy variable speed or dual speed compressor. Too expensive and parts a more difficult to get.

Chuck Farrell is also a good company. You may save a little money with Farrell, but I don't think they are as readily available to service the warranty as Munn's, especially on weekends. Also, I don't think they sell Carrier units, which is the most common system in The Villages.

Good advise!

Get quotes from at least 3 of those recommended here.

[ThirdOfFive]

Another vote for Munn's. Our 15 year old unit died last year: I called Munn's in Friday afternoon and by noon Wednesday we had a new unit installed and running. Caveat: that was in January. You might have a bit longer wait in July, but Munn's are known for getting things done quickly.

[JRcorvette]

need new airconditioner. Who is trustworthy and company

I just replaced my AC unit and got 3 estimates…. Kalos & Sunshine were very close Munds was a whopping $2400 higher for the same unit. Went with Kalos because they have been our Service company for the past 8 years. We did upgrade to a 2 speed compressor and 2 speed fan but they gave us prices for all models of Carrier units.

[CFrance]

Another vote for Munn's. Our 15 year old unit died last year: I called Munn's in Friday afternoon and by noon Wednesday we had a new unit installed and running. Caveat: that was in January. You might have a bit longer wait in July, but Munn's are known for getting things done quickly.
You make a good point about the time of year. Our next-door neighbors, who have had service contracts with Munn's for over a decade, had to wait ten days for them to replace their air conditioner in July. (Munn's did put a portable air conditioner in their bedroom.) This caused another neighbor to replace their unit before it broke.

[asianthree]

Have used Chuck at two different homes. Service is excellent, and happy with price. For our third home Chuck doesn’t travel south, office recommendation was Kalos. I would use them again.

First home came with Sunkool, I was happy with them until they wanted me to buy a new unit, said our 6yo unit rusted out, new unit $8,000. Had Chuck for second opinion, didn’t need a new unit yet, not rusted, fixed minor problem, $175. Unit lasted 10 more years.

Fourth new build comes with Sunshine, first time with them. Had first yearly check up. Will see how it goes for next year.

[Challenger]

Thanks for the many responses. Think I'll call Munns first based on the numerous recommendations that I saw here.

[CFrance]

Challenger, just curious. Has your unit gone out, or are you taking preventive action?

[CFrance]

Have used Chuck at two different homes. Service is excellent, and happy with price. For our third home Chuck doesn’t travel south, office recommendation was Kalos. I would use them again.

First home came with Sunkool, I was happy with them until they wanted me to buy a new unit, said our 6yo unit rusted out, new unit $8,000. Had Chuck for second opinion, didn’t need a new unit yet, not rusted, fixed minor problem, $175. Unit lasted 10 more years.

Fourth new build comes with Sunshine, first time with them. Had first yearly check up. Will see how it goes for next year.


That was exactly our experience with SunKool after six years. We switched to Kalos and have been happy with their service, especially prompt service when the capacitor went out.

[Plinker]

Currently, there is a $2,000 tax credit available. Our A/C started leaking refrigerant from coils last week. It is 10 years old. Munn’s is replacing it next week.
Cost is $8,500 before tax credit.

[Lottoguy]

Call CHUCK FARRELL for a quote. He does many installs and has a great reputation.

[Toymeister]

Also, don't buy a fancy variable speed or dual speed compressor. Too expensive and parts are more difficult to get.
there is a distinct and notable difference between a two speed vice a variable speed compressor. Parts, comfort and cost savings make absolute sense for a two speed systems. Variable speed systems are much more expensive with complex, less common parts.

[JRcorvette]

Two speed compressors are just find and will save you on your AC bill. Parts for any Carrier AC are not an issue or problem. Yes they are more expensive. If you are 90 probably not worth it.

[Lyarham]

need new airconditioner. Who is trustworthy and company

Chuck Ferrell

[RICH1]

If i needed a new system, I would buy a Carrier unit from Munn's. I would get a standard, single stage compressor that will come with a 10-year parts and 5-year labor warranty. There is no need to sign up for an annual maintenance agreement, at least for the first few years. Also, don't buy a fancy variable speed or dual speed compressor. Too expensive and parts are more difficult to get.

Chuck Farrell is also a good company. You may save a little money with Farrell, but I don't think they are as readily available to service the warranty as Munn's, especially on weekends. Also, I don't think they sell Carrier units, which is the most common system in The Villages.
This is the Best Reply to the OP Question ...,l

[sdeikenberry]

need new airconditioner. Who is trustworthy and company

Call Chuck Farrell HVAC. the most honest and trustworthy HVAC company in the area. They replaced my HVAC in April, and we could not be happier with their staff and level if careful installation.

[JudyLife]

Munns

[mrf6969]

We have had great service with DeSantis HVAC. They just installed a new system for us, $7900. Used them for 4 years now and every time perfect results.

[mrkorn12@aol.com]

Call Good Guys Air Conditioning & Heating. They do excellent work, and very fair prices. (352) 557 - 9437. The guys on the team are: Billy, Brian, and Donnie. They have done work for many neighbors. They recently installed a new Carrier A/C system next door-- they are very pleased.

[Cliff Fr]

FYI: New EPA regulations go into effect in January. A different and new refrigerant will be required in all new units sold. The new refrigerant is flammable so all fittings will have to be compression fittings instead of soldered fittings. Prices are expected to increase about 25%. It is not known if modifications to existing installations will be required due to the increased fire hazard.

[New Englander]

there is a distinct and notable difference between a two speed vice a variable speed compressor. Parts, comfort and cost savings make absolute sense for a two speed systems. Variable speed systems are much more expensive with complex, less common parts.

Are the two speeds the fan or compressor?

[jrref]

If i needed a new system, I would buy a Carrier unit from Munn's. I would get a standard, single stage compressor that will come with a 10-year parts and 5-year labor warranty. There is no need to sign up for an annual maintenance agreement, at least for the first few years. Also, don't buy a fancy variable speed or dual speed compressor. Too expensive and parts are more difficult to get.

Chuck Farrell is also a good company. You may save a little money with Farrell, but I don't think they are as readily available to service the warranty as Munn's, especially on weekends. Also, I don't think they sell Carrier units, which is the most common system in The Villages.

Yep, get the cheapest unit possible from the cheapest installer around. Don't consider the savings on a higher efficienty system over the time you will spend in your home and there are no spare parts for any systems except the cheap ones. Also don't worry about the installer being around for the next 5 years or anything like that. Just get the cheapest.:loco::loco:

[jrref]

FYI: New EPA regulations go into effect in January. A different and new refrigerant will be required in all new units sold. The new refrigerant is flammable so all fittings will have to be compression fittings instead of soldered fittings. Prices are expected to increase about 25%. It is not known if modifications to existing installations will be required due to the increased fire hazard.

The new refrigerant will only be for the new units starting 1/1/25. Changing of refrigerants has been going on for over 20 years and your existing systems will not need any modifications. The older refrigerants will be around for many years for maintenance purposes. Although the new refrigerant is somewhat flammable, it has a significantly higher efficiency and will not me a problem. It's similar to propane which many have in a tank in their yard or under the ground near their house. The newer HVAC units are more efficient and more sophisticated to get these efficiencies both for cooling and heating when using a heatpump which most of us are. This is why they will be more money. But the additional efficiency should offset some or all of the additional cost.

[retiredguy123]

Yep, get the cheapest unit possible from the cheapest installer around. Don't consider the savings on a higher efficienty system over the time you will spend in your home and there are no spare parts for any systems except the cheap ones. Also don't worry about the installer being around for the next 5 years or anything like that. Just get the cheapest.:loco::loco:
Not what I said at all. The single stage Carrier system is, by far, the most commonly installed system in The Villages. Munn's is well recognized as an authorized Carrier dealer and expert installer and warranty repair company in The Villages. If your system fails, a Carrier system can usually be repaired within a day or so, even on a weekend. To me that is important. Neither the Carrier system or Munn's are the cheapest way to go.

I would also point out that there was another thread where a guy was waiting 4 months to get a part to repair his variable speed compressor that was installed by an out-of-town company. I doubt that a similar situation could ever occur with a single stage Carrier unit in The Villages.

[Cliff Fr]

The new refrigerant will only be for the new units starting 1/1/25. Changing of refrigerants has been going on for over 20 years and your existing systems will not need any modifications. The older refrigerants will be around for many years for maintenance purposes. Although the new refrigerant is somewhat flammable, it has a significantly higher efficiency and will not me a problem. It's similar to propane which many have in a tank in their yard or under the ground near their house. The newer HVAC units are more efficient and more sophisticated to get these efficiencies both for cooling and heating when using a heatpump which most of us are. This is why they will be more money. But the additional efficiency should offset some or all of the additional cost.

But propane tanks are not allowed inside a house or business. I think there's a reason for that.

[Cliff Fr]

Currently, there is a $2,000 tax credit available. Our A/C started leaking refrigerant from coils last week. It is 10 years old. Munn’s is replacing it next week.
Cost is $8,500 before tax credit.

Wow!!

[jrref]

But propane tanks are not allowed inside a house or business. I think there's a reason for that.

Look at some Youtube videos on the subject. It's not going to be a problem.

[nn0wheremann]

If i needed a new system, I would buy a Carrier unit from Munn's. I would get a standard, single stage compressor that will come with a 10-year parts and 5-year labor warranty. There is no need to sign up for an annual maintenance agreement, at least for the first few years. Also, don't buy a fancy variable speed or dual speed compressor. Too expensive and parts are more difficult to get.

Chuck Farrell is also a good company. You may save a little money with Farrell, but I don't think they are as readily available to service the warranty as Munn's, especially on weekends. Also, I don't think they sell Carrier units, which is the most common system in The Villages.
Five years ago a neighbor’s ac stop working on a Saturday. It was 15 years old. Munns said it had to be replaced and they could do it in two days on Monday. The start capacitor was shot, swollen, no good. A trip to Grangers in Ocala, $35, ten minutes work, and that now 20 year old AC is still working just fine. Steer clear of Munns!

[retiredguy123]

Call Good Guys Air Conditioning & Heating. They do excellent work, and very fair prices. (352) 557 - 9437. The guys on the team are: Billy, Brian, and Donnie. They have done work for many neighbors. They recently installed a new Carrier A/C system next door-- they are very pleased.
I have heard excellent reviews about The Good Guys. But, before I hired them to install a new Carrier system, I would be interested in how they will service a 10-year parts and 5-year labor warranty. They are not listed as a Carrier dealer on the Carrier website. Does that mean they need to partner with a Carrier dealer for warranty work, or does Carrier supply any contractor with parts that are covered by the warranty? I would ask a lot of questions before hiring a non-Carrier dealer to install a new system.

[jrref]

Not what I said at all. The single stage Carrier system is, by far, the most commonly installed system in The Villages. Munn's is well recognized as an authorized Carrier dealer and expert installer and warranty repair company in The Villages. If your system fails, a Carrier system can usually be repaired within a day or so, even on a weekend. To me that is important. Neither the Carrier system or Munn's are the cheapest way to go.

I would also point out that there was another thread where a guy was waiting 4 months to get a part to repair his variable speed compressor that was installed by an out-of-town company. I doubt that a similar situation could ever occur with a single stage Carrier unit in The Villages.

I was just poking fun. You are correct. The larger companies like Munn's, Sunshine and other's are going to be a little more expensive BUT, they not only store a huge number of parts but they also have systems in their warehouse that they can pull and install incase they can't fix your existing unit because of a part issue. Also these newer variable speed inverter systems are way more efficient and will become the "norm" over the next couple of years. When you get estimates from Munn's and Sunshine or any of the big authorized Carrier guys they always give you a choice from the basic to the most efficient units. They have the parts and support for everything they sell. Then its up to you to figure out how long you plan to stay in your home, how much savings you will get from a higher efficiency system, how much added value will a more efficient system add to the resale of your home and finally what no one is talking about is how much more comfortable will you be with a more expensive inverter system. The older style system that most of us have is either all On or all Off. Its like driving your car with only one speed, full throtle. This wastes energy and makes it difficult to control the humidity in your home. The variable speed inverter systems run at the speed that you house needs at the moment dependent on the outside temperature and humidity and what the thermostat is telling the system about the temperature and humidity in your home. This saves energy and effectively controls the humidity in you home so its going to feel more comfortable. Did you know that these mini-splits use this "newer inverter technology" that everyone says there are no spare parts for?

Also, there is nothing wrong with going with a smaller company but just know they can have great prices and to an excellent job and be very honest, but they usually don't have the same capacity as the larger companies and here in Florida you can't be without air conditioning.

I forgot to mention, no matter what you buy, unless you maintain it, eventually its going to fail and you are going to be unhappy. Most maintenance involves cleaning the coils in the outside condensor and the inside evaporator, and the condensate line and this can be done by a homeowner if they have the ability and experience. But what the homeowner can't do is measure the decline of the start and run capacitor which will degrade over time and check the refrigerant once a year to make sure you don't have a leak and your unit is operating at maximum efficiency. Many will say, I have a spare capacitor from Amazon that I can replace when it fails but did you know as the capacitor degrades over time at a certain point the system will still run but the compressor will be doing more work and you are ultimately damaging it and shortening its life? So when someone said that you don't need a yearly contract, I would say the way things are here in the Villages, the amount they charge for this yearly preventive maintenance is definetly worth it.

Hope this helps.

[jrref]

Five years ago a neighbor’s ac stop working on a Saturday. It was 15 years old. Munns said it had to be replaced and they could do it in two days on Monday. The start capacitor was shot, swollen, no good. A trip to Grangers in Ocala, $35, ten minutes work, and that now 20 year old AC is still working just fine. Steer clear of Munns!

I'll bet you didn't have a service contract or they would have been to your house the same day. Additionally, they should have been able to see the capacitor degrading way before it failed and replaced it. Many will say, I have a spare capacitor from Amazon that I can replace when it fails but did you know as the capacitor degrades over time at a certain point the system will still run but the compressor will be doing more work and you are ultimately damaging it and shortening its life? So preventive maintenance always should be done.

Finally when it comes to the capacitor, generally, you will be charged anywhere form $75 to $150 to change the capacitor. But I always here people say they got ripped off and they could get the capacitor from Amazon for $20-$30. What you don't realize these are cheap Chinese knock-offs and they don't last as long. You can get American Made capacitors on Amazon form AMRAD but they are going to cost almost double but they will last significantly longer. You also have to consider the HVAC company has to charge you for the trip and their overhead to stay in business so at the end of the day, you are not being ripped-off unless someone charged you a crazy amount.

[lake5798]

We had Sunkool for 10 years, when I had a problem with my split unit in my garage,tech told me was not allowed tocharge if they knew it had a leak, total BS. I received quotes on my split unit in garage and also my whole house ac. Munns ,Kalos and Sun Kool. I told sun Kool to sharpen their pencil ,due to the service tech's false info. SunKool and Munns were $4K higher than Kalos. Kalos did a great job installing both in one day, I performed AC&R work while in the navy, so I knew Kalos was totally upfront and honest with what I was looking for. Would not hesitate at all to use them again!!

[mikempp]

I wouldn't buy a trane after what they did to us in the village of hadley.

[jrref]

We had Sunkool for 10 years, when I had a problem with my split unit in my garage,tech told me was not allowed tocharge if they knew it had a leak, total BS. I received quotes on my split unit in garage and also my whole house ac. Munns ,Kalos and Sun Kool. I told sun Kool to sharpen their pencil ,due to the service tech's false info. SunKool and Munns were $4K higher than Kalos. Kalos did a great job installing both in one day, I performed AC&R work while in the navy, so I knew Kalos was totally upfront and honest with what I was looking for. Would not hesitate at all to use them again!!

If you have a leak as you probably know, adding refrigerant will only fix the problem for a short period of time. It may be a day, week, month, can't tell because it depends on the size of the leak. The tech's company, Sunkool may have told him not to recharge when a leak is detected. The trick is to make sure the tech really found a leak or is he just trying to get you to purchase a new system. I haven't seen any of the big companies try to scam customers. Often its a mistake by the tech. I'm glad you found a good company to get the work done.

[vettman01]

Do not call Frank Gay!!!!

[Don Chi]

thank you for all of the great information, gang...........there seems to be quite a few variables in making this decision.

[Happydaz]

Currently, there is a $2,000 tax credit available. Our A/C started leaking refrigerant from coils last week. It is 10 years old. Munn’s is replacing it next week.
Cost is $8,500 before tax credit.

The new heat pump system must have a SEER rating of 15 or higher to qualify for the $2000 tax credit. Not all heat pumps have that high of a SEER rating.

[Bay Kid]

FYI: New EPA regulations go into effect in January. A different and new refrigerant will be required in all new units sold. The new refrigerant is flammable so all fittings will have to be compression fittings instead of soldered fittings. Prices are expected to increase about 25%. It is not known if modifications to existing installations will be required due to the increased fire hazard.

Scary, but the gov doesn't leave us in control....

[Plinker]

The new heat pump system must have a SEER rating forof 15 or higher to qualify for the $2000 tax credit. Not all heat pumps have that high of a SEER rating.

Excellent point. Munn’s is installing the Carrier Comfort 15 (Seer rating is 15) in our home as a replacement to our original Carrier unit. The credit brings the total cost down to $6,500. Munn’s has always provided us with prompt and courteous service.

[MorTech]

What are you actually getting for your $8500?

[MorTech]

MRCOOL Pro Direct Residential 2.5-Ton 15-SEER Heat Pump in the Heat Pumps department at Lowes.com (https://www.lowes.com/pd/MRCOOL-ProDirect-2-5-Ton-up-to-15-SEER2-30-000BTU-Split-System-Heat-Pump/5014595527)