Replacing HVAC System... Any recommendations? (Fredericksburg: sales, how much, homes)

[Novabound2013]

Does anyone have any recommendations for me? I have a 15 year old system that is on it's last leg. Im looking for a few companies to contact that could give me a reasonable quote on a new system that includes labor. I live in Fredericksburg and would like to hear from folks that have gone through the process and how much they paid to replace theirs and what brand. I have a gas furnace and know nothing about what this would cost.

Thanks in advance.

[Bigfoot424]

If you were smart you would join either Checkbook.org or something similar. You get numerous ratings for multiple companies and a better chance of finding the best deal. I've used CB.org for years but I know there are others out there.

[Linus7]

Just a few tips that hopefully apply to all hvac service vendors: look closely at the quotes if you are replacing the whole units. Mfg often (e.g. Crane) don't sell directly to consumers, so it's difficult to know what you are really paying for parts and labor. Ask the contractors why they would sell you the units they did, and don't trust their sales pitch. Note the costs of various consumable parts like belts, filters, and labor to lubricate and maintain the units in the future.

[acgood]

I have been pleased with service from McCarthy - but they are not a bargain price-wise

[Lemming95]

NOT Michael and Sons. They took their standard book cost and doubled it because the pipe was 2 feet longer then their standard. And the cost was more then the work I had done to finally resolve the problem
(Mine was plumbing not a/c)

[weezycom]

I have a 2-story splancher, 2000 sf total, replaced the AC at the beginning of this season, just under $4000, 13 SEER, new pad and new pipes included. R&B, Inc. Good workmen, fair price, works great.

[yolli71]

I've heard that Trane is top of the line. The higher the Seer rating, the better. Many homes have HVAC systems that are overkill...it doesn't have to be the biggest unit. For max efficiency, it must be a unit that simply matches the square footage of your home. Two stage condensers are the way to go. I've yet to replace mine, but I've been doing some research b/c my system is also 15 years old...I'm preparing for when I'll need to replace it as I've had to have it serviced twice in the past few years.

[Novabound2013]

Thank you guys for the advice and comments.

[ACWhite]

OP, in case you were thinking of splitting up the purchases: the most efficient ACs require a new furnace that can work with them (two stage).