Said It Here

How to choose between different HVAC replacement quotes

Homeowners replacing aging systems face conflicting quotes and unfamiliar equipment brands like Lennox and Bosch. Without knowing how to compare these options or contractor experience, people risk choosing unreliable installers or overpaying for equipment that doesn't fit their needs.

Overview
People affected55 accounts across 5 forums
Workarounds found95 items attempted
Community agreement98 total upvotes

What the numbers show

Counted from the threads quoted below. How we count

  • The most recent one is from October 2026.
  • This comes up 22.0× more often in r/hvacadvice than across the site as a whole.

What people tried

Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.

95 items+ Contribute

Found another way around this?

Share your steps and trade-offs so fellow engineers don't have to reinvent the wheel. No account required.

  1. 1
    Getting quotes from multiple contractors
    3 people mentioned
    Did this help you?
  2. 2
    shopping based on online pricing
    Did this help you?
  3. 3
    relying on Google reviews to vet installers
    Did this help you?
  4. 4
    comparing equipment efficiency and brand tiers
    Did this help you?
  5. 5
    Comparing equipment models, SEER2 ratings, and assuming the lower price is best
    Did this help you?
  6. 6
    asking online forums to compare equipment quotes
    Did this help you?
  7. 7
    relying on contractor sizing estimates
    Did this help you?
  8. 8
    Researching manufacturer history and corporate ownership, comparing equipment specifications, checking thermostat compatibility, and relying on installer reputation rather than brand name.
    Did this help you?
  9. 9
    Getting second opinions from other HVAC technicians
    Did this help you?
  10. 10
    Replacing the entire HVAC system with a different brand model
    Did this help you?
  11. 11
    Fixing and relining the old chimney
    Did this help you?
  12. 12
    Installing a low loss header or buffer tank with a combi unit
    Did this help you?
  13. 13
    Asking online forums for brand or system recommendations
    Did this help you?
  14. 14
    Comparing model numbers and specs on paperwork
    Did this help you?
  15. 15
    Looking up equipment prices online and estimating labor costs
    Did this help you?
  16. 16
    Comparing system efficiency ratings, decibel levels, and overall costs attached to individual proposals
    Did this help you?
  17. 17
    comparing multiple contractor quotes
    Did this help you?
  18. 18
    researching equipment models online
    Did this help you?
  19. 19
    asking forums for professional opinions
    Did this help you?
  20. 20
    Obtaining multiple HVAC company quotes to compare installation configurations
    Did this help you?
  21. 21
    Considering alternative heating options like heat pumps
    Did this help you?
  22. 22
    Accepting standard contractor recommendations
    Did this help you?
  23. 23
    Considering relocating the blower to the attic
    Did this help you?
  24. 24
    Switching to an ECM blower
    Did this help you?
  25. 25
    Installing separate mini-split systems each with their own outside unit.
    Did this help you?
  26. 26
    researching different system stages and brands online
    Did this help you?
  27. 27
    consulting HVAC dealers for recommendations
    Did this help you?
  28. 28
    Looking around online to figure out reliable brands or models.
    Did this help you?
  29. 29
    Running historical utility bills through AI tools like Claude to compare projected operating costs.
    Did this help you?
  30. 30
    Relying on contractor recommendations regarding solar compatibility and local energy rates.
    Did this help you?
  31. 31
    Using low-interest state energy efficiency loans
    Did this help you?
  32. 32
    Continuing to use high-cost oil or window AC units
    Did this help you?
  33. 33
    upsizing to the larger system
    Did this help you?
  34. 34
    modifying ductwork to handle additional airflow
    Did this help you?
  35. 35
    Using a wood burner to heat the entire dwelling
    Did this help you?
  36. 36
    asking online forums for comparison advice
    Did this help you?
  37. 37
    obtaining additional contractor estimates
    Did this help you?
  38. 38
    Researching brand reliability online
    Did this help you?
  39. 39
    Considering asking the contractor for alternative brand quotes
    Did this help you?
  40. 40
    Buying single-stage systems for simplicity and lower cost
    Did this help you?
  41. 41
    Opting for variable speed blowers instead of standard single or two-stage units
    Did this help you?
  42. 42
    buying new electric heaters
    Did this help you?
  43. 43
    purchasing newer more efficient storage heaters
    Did this help you?
  44. 44
    getting a full gas hook up
    Did this help you?
  45. 45
    running portable dehumidifiers to keep humidity down
    Did this help you?
  46. 46
    keeping two units and planning to downsize them eventually
    Did this help you?
  47. 47
    Using online calculators to estimate required BTU sizes
    Did this help you?
  48. 48
    Consulting with an HVAC technician for recommendations
    Did this help you?
  49. 49
    Buying a cheaper pre-charged unit and installing it yourself
    Did this help you?
  50. 50
    Improving insulation and air sealing between the garage and the bedroom above
    Did this help you?
  51. 51
    Installing a gas garage heater instead of a mini-split
    Did this help you?
  52. 52
    Switching from oil to natural gas or propane
    Did this help you?
  53. 53
    Installing air-source central heat pumps or mini splits
    Did this help you?
  54. 54
    Supplementing with wood or pellet stoves
    Did this help you?
  55. 55
    Using a dual-fuel setup with a heat pump and gas furnace auxiliary heat
    Did this help you?
  56. 56
    Getting quotes to replace the central air unit using existing ductwork
    Did this help you?
  57. 57
    Considering mini splits to avoid attic maintenance and uninsulated duct issues
    Did this help you?
  58. 58
    Sticking with a simpler single-stage system to minimize upfront and potential repair costs
    Did this help you?
  59. 59
    Weighing comfort benefits like humidity control and consistent temperatures rather than relying solely on energy cost savings
    Did this help you?
  60. 60
    Replacing individual parts like the blower motor instead of the whole system
    Did this help you?
  61. 61
    Reading online reviews to compare brand reliability and installation quality
    Did this help you?
  62. 62
    Researching builder-grade versus higher-end models within the same manufacturer family and asking for online forum advice.
    Did this help you?
  63. 63
    Consulting with realtors about home resale value impacts
    Did this help you?
  64. 64
    Relying on window units alongside existing setups
    Did this help you?
  65. 65
    Getting multiple contractor quotes and comparing equipment specifications and features.
    Did this help you?
  66. 66
    Installing a dual fuel system to choose between electricity and gas
    Did this help you?
  67. 67
    Combining a heat pump with solar panels and a battery backup
    Did this help you?
  68. 68
    Comparing manufacturer specifications and warranties side-by-side
    Did this help you?
  69. 69
    Relying on contractor recommendations and local community reviews
    Did this help you?
  70. 70
    paying to have the system zoned
    Did this help you?
  71. 71
    adding a return duct upstairs and replacing damaged ducts
    Did this help you?
  72. 72
    getting proposals to move back to a gas furnace
    Did this help you?
  73. 73
    Buying old-stock R-410A units
    Did this help you?
  74. 74
    Buying a jug of R-410A refrigerant to keep on hand for future use
    Did this help you?
  75. 75
    Waiting for the implementation of the HEAR program rebates
    Did this help you?
  76. 76
    using window units
    Did this help you?
  77. 77
    keeping the existing boiler
    Did this help you?
  78. 78
    considering a mini-split system
    Did this help you?
  79. 79
    Doing online research on brands and equipment tiers
    Did this help you?
  80. 80
    Gathering multiple quotes from different contractors
    Did this help you?
  81. 81
    Sealing trunk line duct connections
    Did this help you?
  82. 82
    using portable ACs or window ACs
    Did this help you?
  83. 83
    installing through-the-wall units instead of full ductless or central systems
    Did this help you?
  84. 84
    Researching different brand options online, getting quotes from HVAC companies, and looking for insights or warnings from community members.
    Did this help you?
  85. 85
    Relying on contractor recommendations and load calculations
    Did this help you?
  86. 86
    Installing condenser units with pre-primed refrigerant yourself
    Did this help you?
  87. 87
    Buying heat pumps for both heating and cooling
    Did this help you?
  88. 88
    Doing internet research to narrow down brands
    Did this help you?
  89. 89
    Asking for advice on online forums like r/hvacadvice
    Did this help you?
  90. 90
    Delaying the replacement until spring
    Did this help you?
  91. 91
    Replacing the gravity furnace with a traditional central air furnace
    Did this help you?
  92. 92
    Using alternative cooling solutions like window units or ductless mini-splits
    Did this help you?
  93. 93
    Asking online forums for unbiased opinions on brand reliability and parts availability.
    Did this help you?
  94. 94
    Getting quotes from multiple different HVAC companies to compare pricing.
    Did this help you?
  95. 95
    Avoiding newer brands in favor of established ones with proven distribution networks.
    Did this help you?
Tried another approach not listed above?+ Share your workaround ↑

In their words

Unedited, grouped by where they were said, most upvoted first within each place, each linked to the thread it came from.

r/hvacadvice49 people · September 2026 – October 2026

“We're fixing up our detached garage to use as a woodworking shop, but it gets blazing hot out here during the summer months and freezing when winter hits.”source ↗

“I've been looking around online trying to figure out what brands or specific models are actually reliable without costing a fortune, since my contractor buddy mentioned sizing is pretty important for insulation and space.”source ↗

“Does anyone have experience with units around this size that hold up well over time, or are there certain brands I should probably stay away from?”source ↗

Herdzin_Faried · r/hvacadvice · 9 upvotes

“How do we choose which option to go with?”source ↗

aka8812 · r/hvacadvice · 7 upvotes

“At the time, we priced out single stage, dual stage and variable speed options, and I just couldn't make the ROI work for the dual or variable speed options given their upfront costs.”source ↗

“Insurance has so far covered everything (sans deductible), so I'm not sure what they'll approve.”source ↗

RNG_HatesMe · r/hvacadvice · 4 upvotes

“If you where about to buy a renovation property for the first time and had the opportunity to pick what central heating system to use, would you pick gas or air pumps?”source ↗

“House currently has no heating so will need the full instal. Gas looking like it will cost a couple of grand more but trying to decide best for long term.”source ↗

CoolCat5551 · r/hvacadvice · 4 upvotes

“I'm replacing my HVAC system. I have 2 stage now. Stage 1 is much cheaper. Will I know the difference if I switch to 1 stage?”source ↗

curtis1512 · r/hvacadvice · 3 upvotes

“Our blower motor and compressor went out in our 11 year old Carrier. I’m sure it was a lower end model. Two hvac companies have come out and said it’s best to get a new system. The company we’ve decided to use has given us three options.”source ↗

“Are any of these systems better or worse? Any red flags?”source ↗

Daisymaysgarden · r/hvacadvice · 3 upvotes

“Have gotten a few quotes from companies in my area with good reviews, looking to get some advice/opinions.”source ↗

“Seems like a no brainer to go with the Ducane, but wanted to get some opinions.”source ↗

Dominicdp99 · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“Am I crazy for leaning toward the 5-ton? If the ductwork can handle ~1,650 CFM at acceptable static, would you choose the 51.5k 5-ton or the 42k 4-ton?”source ↗

Leon_Tringles · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“Suggestions and advice why one is better than the other would be appreciated.”source ↗

mwusa1 · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“We are trying to work out what the best option for us is with heating.”source ↗

“Any advice is welcome as I’m currently very confused about what to do!”source ↗

CoolCat5551 · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“I am wondering if a mini-split would be appropriate to keep the garage at 58 degrees in winter and 80 in Summer to help. I was quoted $7,000 for a Mitsubishi to do that job and it would work even when it was negative 20 Fahrenheit outside.”source ↗

“I have $3-4k can spend on this. Any suggestions?”source ↗

Whiskeejak · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“Installer says my AC is oversized (sized for ~1,900 sq ft, house is ~1,550–1,600). Keep the 3.5-ton or take the free swap to 3-ton?”source ↗

“Am I setting myself up for short cycling and humidity problems long term, since it's oversized? Would the 3-ton avoid those?”source ↗

“Will it hold 72° during 105–110° heat waves, or will I lose ground on the hottest days?”source ↗

CompletelyEmptySkull · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“I considering the 9600 or 9700 Napolean furnace for a 1800 sq ft home in the pacific northwest. Looking for a reliable furnace with minimal maintenance for approximately 10 years.”source ↗

User-unknown-1359 · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“If I had to do over, I would’ve chosen the middle quote which was the experienced non-PE family firm, rather than the new entrant to the market.”source ↗

TravelerMSY · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Hello, I'm in GA and the air conditioner went out.”source ↗

“Any advice you could offer?”source ↗

ruoccop · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Which would you choose for hot Oklahoma in a 2400 sq ft home we will be in for at least 5 years?”source ↗

Life-uhfindsaway · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Our old Lennox Merit coil is leaking and needed replacement for a second time. Problem is the coil is on back order. Since the Lennox was problematic, we decided to replace.”source ↗

Remote_Gazelle8211 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Looking for some opinions from HVAC pros on three quotes I received in the GTA, Ontario.”source ↗

“At this point I’m primarily deciding between Quote 1 and Quote 2.”source ↗

kilogramcurry · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“It turns out with all this extra work, an 80% furnace is ~2k$ more than the high efficiency.”source ↗

“I obtained two different HVAC company quotes and for both the 80% is more expensive.”source ↗

“I've flip flopped on which to get so many times at this point would just like some help making the right, and hopefully final, decision.”source ↗

BikeFTW · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I hate the fact that the blower is loud and sudden stop/start..”source ↗

RaisinFinancial3863 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Im planning on installing multiple mini splits in my house and they would all use the same inverter.”source ↗

“My question is that would the converter be using more energy than needed if only one split is being used at a time?”source ↗

Glad-Paper8770 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I'm looking to replace a 2.5 ton system, budget is up to $15k for a complete install.”source ↗

Samson_Uppercut · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“My main concern is noise and humidity.”source ↗

“The condenser is right outside the bedroom, which is also my office.”source ↗

sp90378 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Replacing my 25 year old HVAC system and deciding between going heat pump or sticking with the furnace system.”source ↗

Sensitive_Advice_290 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I have questions? 1965 electric radiant ceiling heat. It's necessary to install an alternative heat source. It still works, but Jeeze. We also use a wood burner that heats the entire dwelling however, age is becoming a factor.”source ↗

“I I am curious which system would be best for resale value. Will a mini split make buyers wince like baseboard heaters?”source ↗

PositiveJellyfish99 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I have same house. I plan on installing mini splits as radiant heat is the most inefficient way to heat home. Mine are in ceiling. I also believe its not safe .”source ↗

titusd323 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Getting quotes for a replacement of HVAC system.”source ↗

“The company I like the best gave me quotes for only Lennox products but i see that they are factory authorized for Trane.”source ↗

“My research has said Lennox can be harder than other brands to get parts.”source ↗

“Should I ask them to give me quotes for Trane cold climate variable speed systems?”source ↗

roonie1 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I am looking to get two new units for my upstairs. I have ran into some pretty high humidity. I’m being told that my ductwork is undersized for what is needed and they’re saying an option for me is to use a single variable speed AC unit”source ↗

“If I don’t have portable dehumidifiers running my humidity gets to roughly 60%.”source ↗

Chicagos_Finest33 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Im being told that since the duct work is improper sized and I have a 4 ton and 3 ton unit for upstairs it is all playing a part. So If I kept two units I would downsize them eventually when it’s time to replace them. Or bite the bullet and do it all at once.”source ↗

Chicagos_Finest33 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Should I stick with 9K units or upgrade size? We live in the deep South, hot and humid.”source ↗

eaglefucker · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“We installed a pre charged Mr cool from homo depot .”source ↗

navlgazer9 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“A mini-split could serve those garage temperatures, but I wouldn't stretch a $3–4k budget to $7k solely on ‘works at -20°F’ or a blanket claim that cheaper units die in five to seven years.”source ↗

BumblebeeMother8193 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“We recently bought a home and need to replace our HVAC unit as the current one is 20+ years old and basically done (we knew this when we bought).”source ↗

TacolaOutdoors · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Im in the need for an entire system overhaul after my blower motor crapped out on me and will cost around $4,200 to replace.”source ↗

“What do you all think? Worth it to go with Carrier here?”source ↗

DenimChicken44 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“We’re choosing between New Yorker gas boiler NYCG50FNTH (total cost $10k) and Burnham Series X-2 140k BTU (cost $13.3k). Sounds like Burnham is the way to go?”source ↗

lousytortoise13 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I’m aware that the closet option would add some noise and take up storage space.”source ↗

“I am worried about needing to perform more maintenance with the mini splits.”source ↗

olviem3 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“There was some really cold weather last year, and my power bill was very high.”source ↗

Questions99945 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I am severely torn between the manufacturers and would love some advice/recommendations.”source ↗

Glass_Owl_7553 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I moved in during warm weather and found that it was impossible to balance the AC so I paid to have the system zoned, added a return duct upstairs and replaced some damaged ducts in the attic.”source ↗

“BUT in the winter the downstairs is quite cold and the electric heat strips kick in around 36 degrees. Not only are the bills very high in January and February, but the house is physically cold.”source ↗

“So, I need some guidance. What are your thoughts on the various options?”source ↗

Run-swim-4fun · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“R-454b of the 13.4 seer unit gives me pause with the added electronics/sensors needed for the flammable refrigerant.”source ↗

“Gut reaction says with climbing electric costs, the 16 seer r-410a is a no brainer.”source ↗

“Are there any units/features we should ask the ac company about?”source ↗

PedroMcJiminez · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I’m looking for some advice because I need to make a decision pretty quickly, and I’m honestly torn between a few options.”source ↗

“From what I’ve been reading, I’m seeing a lot of people warning against putting HVAC ductwork in an attic, particularly in terms of efficiency, heat loss/gain, condensation, and potential moisture/mold issues.”source ↗

Remarkable_Wolf_2823 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Main thing I am trying to determine here is if paying $2,600-2,950 (depending on which 2-stage model we were to go with) is worth the additional comfort?”source ↗

“considering we live in North Carolina which is a somewhat humid state, I am not sure how much benefit I would get out of it compared to somewhere further south like FL.”source ↗

eitchstoic · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I'm afraid of over improving though.”source ↗

“We need to replace our 40 year old gas heater and I really want AC in at least some of the rooms due to medical reasons.”source ↗

123Martha321 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I’ve gotten 10+ quotes and am narrowed down to 3 of them:”source ↗

theGoat38 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“My Dad’s workshop had an AC unit that finally stopped working. He is being stubborn and does not want to replace it until the Spring but we still have a bit of heat left here throughout the fall so my sister and I want to replace it for him now. We have narrowed down some brands with some internet research but do not know enough about HVAC to decide which is best out of our choices.”source ↗

“Are there any we should avoid? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Some of these names we have heard of and some we have not. Is this the best place to ask this question?”source ↗

your_only_button · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I've been looking at an ACIQ unit as well. Shy to pull the trigger though.”source ↗

ChalkAndIceCream · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Would A/C be able to be added to something like this or would it need to be removed and a traditional central air furnace installed?”source ↗

kissasstronaut · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“There's no blower for starters.”source ↗

Soft_Statistician_98 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Although it sounds good that they don’t have to repair them it doesn’t help me know that they are easy to repair with parts readily accessible should a problem arise.”source ↗

Daisymaysgarden · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“His assessment was that its not repairable and would need to be replaced.”source ↗

“My question is what should I replace this with?”source ↗

“Im not attached to heating oil and would be ok switching to another energy source if its better or more efficient.”source ↗

Odd-Package-591 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I have been having issues with my AC all summer where it stops cooling.”source ↗

“HVAC guy is saying I need to have 3.5 tons in each. Everywhere I look that seems like too big for my house...”source ↗

“I'm really nervous to spend 7-10k on this replacement and then it be wrong for my house.”source ↗

“money is tight so I want to do it right.”source ↗

Feisty_Parfait225 · r/hvacadvice

“Could anyone offer me any insight, or maybe help me ask the right questions as we make our choice?”source ↗

napkin41 · r/hvacadvice
r/HomeMaintenance1 person · September 2026

“How do we choose which option to go with?”source ↗

aka8812 · r/HomeMaintenance · 7 upvotes
r/HomeImprovement4 people · September 2026 – October 2026

“Hi all - we need a new HVAC system and have received proposals from two local companies. One set is a bit more expensive.”source ↗

“How do we choose which option to go with?”source ↗

aka8812 · r/HomeImprovement · 2 upvotes

“Boiler is over 50 years old and she’s done done. Quotes ranged 14-19k.”source ↗

“Obviously all these options suck haha but I have to do something so the boiler doesn’t kill us. I’m just very curious how others would approach this/what they’d consider or want to know to make this decision, I’m overwhelmed!”source ↗

kettles · r/HomeImprovement · 2 upvotes

“In need of a new AC unit, not really sure what I'm looking for.”source ↗

“Any types of features that might be worth the upgrade or brand to consider or questions to ask the HVAC folks?”source ↗

Sw0llenEyeBall · r/HomeImprovement · 2 upvotes

“Is anyone familiar with Goodman brand hvac equipment? We have to replace a 25 yr old Trane unit. One of the bids was for this brand and the price is attractive.”source ↗

kgc94044 · r/HomeImprovement
r/homeowners2 people · September 2026

“We have an oil boiler that has given us serious trouble in the past. Between that and the skyrocketing cost to refill the tank, we're looking into a natural gas furnace, especially a combi, which would solve our hot water problem.”source ↗

“Living somewhere closer to the East Coast, can I expect natural gas to remain reasonably priced? Would the ongoing wars affect that?”source ↗

CosmicDissent · r/homeowners · 2 upvotes

“I'm trying to decide between: Lennox Elite Heat Pump, Model #EL18KSLV-036... and BOSCH Variable Capacity Heat Pump, Model #BOVB-36RTB-M20S”source ↗

“Existing system still works fine but going on 25+ years.”source ↗

txaggies08 · r/homeowners · 1 upvotes
r/Plumbing1 person · September 2026

“What type of boiler would be suitable to heat a second with old cast iron radiators?”source ↗

“Get a new type of boiler or get rid of the old chimney?”source ↗

autowater1 · r/Plumbing · 1 upvotes

Where this came up

People with this problem also raised