Installing a new furnace

[Tim Coppola]

Hello everyone,

I am looking at installing a new furnace in my condo and had a few companies come out with a quote. When they came out I had them look at, and quote, a new AC as well just so I can get some figures but knowing that I only wanted to change the furnace. After choosing the one I am interested in I reached out to one of the companies and they came back with:

 "...however by not changing the AC portion at same time the new Trane XV80 is 40” tall & 17.5” wide. Existing furnace is 39” tall & 21” wide.
For me to just change the Furnace we will need to temp disconnect the coil so it can be elevated. We would then need to return in spring to Recharge the existing AC. I don’t like that idea for only one reason. Once to disconnect an old unit, we have to hope that the valves on the outdoor unit hold otherwise you will need to completely reclaim the old Freon and then put in all new R22. (R22 is billed out roughly $400.00/lb. Systems hold 8-10 lbs). And you still run the risk of compressor not starting back up. (No warranty on existing equipment).
We could go with a Rheem 2-Stage Variable Speed 80% efficient furnace. Those are 34” tall & 17.5” wide. That would give you the room without needing to modify the coil. Rheem furnaces are roughly the same cost as the Trane."

I'm just looking to get some opinions on this. I would rather not change both out right now as the payments would be bigger then I feel comfortable with but if this is a legit point then I would at least consider it.

Thank you in advance for your feedback.

Tim