Replacing HVAC system(s?!??) - and/or Home Warranty Buyouts

Back in 2016, when we knew we would be selling our house within a year, we replaced the entire HVAC system ~ two units as we had separate upstairs and downstairs units. We had been using the same HVAC guy for 20 years plus DH recommended him for all his clients. I recommend getting it all done at once. Our old systems were from 1990 and the difference was amazing! FYI: he gave us a deal and it was about $12,000. Don't know if they have this law in Texas but in CA, an inspector has to come out and do a test to make sure all your ducting is sealed.

We have two small units for our house- one for downstairs and one for upstairs. When one of them went out two years ago we decided to go ahead and replace both because they both had exceeded their life expectancy. I think it was around 12,000 for both units, including a service warranty. There was a financing option with 0% interest that we took advantage of as well as a small tax rebate. They are Trane systems. The sale rep was able to come out for a quote within a day or two of me calling.

Neither of these make any sense to me. I don't mean to be a jerk, but I've been in the business for 30 years and I don't see how either of those statements are true.

Thermostats need to be in a central area, because it's the device that tells the ac and furnace what temperature the house is, and when to shut on and off. They should not be directly in the zone where a supply vent is blowing cool or warm air on it.

Higher efficiency generally have more computer elements, and therefore breakdowns are more expensive to fix (just like the newer cars with the cool features). But high efficiency should cool just like the minimum 13 SEER do. Better, actually-- because they have the features that allow the output to adjust for demand, rather than just on and off being the only option. If it's installed correctly.

Correct installation is an important part of making sure the system works optimally. Investigate the company, make sure they have trained installers, and look for reviews. Make sure they have insurance and licenses, of course.

Trane and American Standard both are at the top of the ratings for needing fewer repairs. We sell Trane, and I know that the manufacturer is careful to sell only to dealers who meet certain criteria-- training and general business practices, a certain minimum consumer rating, etc. Look for Comfort Specialists if you go with Trane-- that's how Trane designates an install company has jumped through the hoops for quality, training, etc.

We are getting to our potential customers needing new equipment really quickly right now as well. Same day or the next, if possible. It just seasonally hasn't gotten so busy that we have a backlog. Plus it's just smart to make a connection with the customer when they're in the decision making time frame.

Yes, 3 systems at once should cost less than 1 at a time. Just the travel time for the crew would be a savings, plus they'll want the big sale, so they'll sharpen their pencils. This is rebate and special offers season, so check on that. Make sure the proposal is detailed with fuel efficiency ratings, and other specifics. I can send you a copy of one of our proposals if you want, so you can see which line items that we include.

And ask for extra stuff cheap-- humidifier, high efficiency filtration, like that, because you have a big 3 system sale and that is worth something. Also see if an outside entity (the city codes enforcement, maybe) will inspect afterward. In our town, licensed contractors have to report the job for that purpose.

When my daughter just got all of her new units, the sales person told her not to go with the "bigger/better" because it wouldn't be worth the extra cost because her house is only 1,200 sq. ft. He said the smaller units would be just as efficient for her small square footage. I wonder if that's what happens. Maybe some sales people try to sell the bigger/better units when it's really not necessary for the size of home. I hope that makes sense. 

And sharlag, my daughter was required to have the city come out to inspect. Thankfully the installing company set it all up for her. She also will join their maintenance plan (which we always recommend).