[Don Chi]

Looks like my air conditioning unit is on it's last legs. Any recommendations on how to proceed in replacing my HVAC unit. Make, model, installation professional, etc. Thanks in advance for your replies.

[villagetinker]

How old is the unit, IMHO, if less than 10 years I would contact the original installer and ask about repairs. As for replacement, if the original installer is not interested, I have neighbors that were satisfied with Munns. In any case I would get 2 or 3 estimates.

[dewilson58]

SunKool

and

Sunshine

are both good firms

[Stu from NYC]

Happy with Munns servicing our AC but would get several quotes if not reparable.

[Don Chi]

Originally Posted by villagetinker

How old is the unit, IMHO, if less than 10 years I would contact the original installer and ask about repairs. As for replacement, if the original installer is not interested, I have neighbors that were satisfied with Munns. In any case I would get 2 or 3 estimates.

Thanks for your reply.

The unit is the original (12 years old) and was installed and serviced annually by SunKool. It is a Carrier unit 2.5 ton capacity for a 1641 sq. ft. villa (perhaps a little small). I'm a little disappointed that it did not last longer since our place was only occupied an average of 3 months a year.

[Don Chi]

Originally Posted by dewilson58

SunKool

and

Sunshine

are both good firms

thank you

[Don Chi]

Originally Posted by Stu from NYC

Happy with Munns servicing our AC but would get several quotes if not reparable.

Thank you for your reply.

[retiredguy123]

I would get 3 quotes, but I would use Munn's even if they are "slightly" higher than the others. This is because I think they are the most responsive for warranty repairs, especially for a Carrier unit. The system will come with a 10-year parts and a 5-year labor warranty. Before getting the quotes, I would decide if you need to upsize a 3 ton unit. Some will recommend a 2-speed or a variable speed compressor, but, personally, I would buy a single stage compressor. That is the most commonly installed system in The Villages. Good luck.

[Bogie Shooter]

Originally Posted by Don Chi

Looks like my air conditioning unit is on it's last legs. Any recommendations on how to proceed in replacing my HVAC unit. Make, model, installation professional, etc. Thanks in advance for your replies.

This thread may be helpful.
need new air conditioner

[ThirdOfFive]

Originally Posted by retiredguy123

I would get 3 quotes, but I would use Munn's even if they are "slightly" higher than the others. This is because I think they are the most responsive for warranty repairs, especially for a Carrier unit. The system will come with a 10-year parts and a 5-year labor warranty. Before getting the quotes, I would decide if you need to upsize a 3 ton unit. Some will recommend a 2-speed or a variable speed compressor, but, personally, I would buy a single stage compressor. That is the most commonly installed system in The Villages. Good luck.

Agree. Munn's is a bit more spendy but--well, you get what you pay for, both in product (Carrier) quality and service tech. knowhow.

Our next-door neighbor was having A/C problems about 4 months ago: saw a service truck from an A/C company that I'd never heard of, parked in his driveway several times over a two-month period. Then one day we saw a Munn's van out there with the same installation guys that did our unit. No problems after that.

[CarlR33]

Originally Posted by Don Chi

Looks like my air conditioning unit is on its last legs. Any recommendations on how to proceed in replacing my HVAC unit. Make, model, installation professional, etc. Thanks in advance for your replies.

You should first have it looked at? How do you know it’s on its last legs? 12 years is a long time for unit.

[ithos]

Originally Posted by Don Chi

Looks like my air conditioning unit is on it's last legs. Any recommendations on how to proceed in replacing my HVAC unit. Make, model, installation professional, etc. Thanks in advance for your replies.

Last legs means that is cooling but not at 100%. What was the problem that the tech said it was?

Usually it has to be condemned when the compressor fails. The typical cause is shorted or open windings. Everything else should be repairable.

The best way to extend the life of standard compressor is to install a soft start to limit the inrush current.
Amazon.com

[Aloha]

Your first response should be to call Chuck Farrell Air Conditioning and have him check your system. He will honestly advise you as to what is needed and give you the best price. Be careful, as there are some companies that will charge you outrageous prices and suggest options that are not needed or necessary to repair or replace your unit.

[birdawg]

Get a second and third opinion. These repair technicians get a bonus for what they can sell you.

[SteveCanada]

Originally Posted by Don Chi

Thanks for your reply.

The unit is the original (12 years old) and was installed and serviced annually by SunKool. It is a Carrier unit 2.5 ton capacity for a 1641 sq. ft. villa (perhaps a little small). I'm a little disappointed that it did not last longer since our place was only occupied an average of 3 months a year.

curious .. do you leave ac off for the other nine mths .. no worries with mold ? tx