HVAC Unit Recommendations

-auntie-

DH and I are planning to replace/upgrade our gas furness and central air unit. Does anyone have any wisdom around this?

TheWop

Get as many quotes as you can.  We're in the process of getting quotes, and it's crazy how much the prices vary depending what each company tells you what you "need".  For example we had one company come in and tell us that we needed a bunch of additional duct work, and extra return air for our 1000 sq ft house, and quoted us $10k for all that and installation of the units (which was CRAZY).  We then had three more companies come in and tell us that our ducting was fine and quoted us significantly less.  Each company will probably give you a big sales pitch and then after you get all your quotes, look at your budget and see which company you think will fit your needs best.  Don't be afraid to share information with each company (not necessarily price, but what other quotes include as far as service goes).  We had one company come in yesterday and tell us that the chimney liner was extra, when others included it in the quote for less, and we told them that. Their tune may change once you tell them those things.  The same company made a big deal about including a programmable thermostat, when you can buy one for $20 at your local hardware store.  Big whoop.  We have one that works fine now, so there's no need to make it sound like they're doing us a favor by including a new one.  LOL.  It's exhausting. 

John+OurHomefromScratch

I would avoid a brand called "Goodman."  I haven't heard anything positive about it.  It's worth a little extra for a Comfortmaker, York, Traine, Rheem or their builder grade counterparts.  I installed my own furnace before and I called a local HVAC guy to inspect it and offer any suggestions.. the first thing he said was "I'm not touching a Goodman." 

 Best of luck!