VS generally adds at least 1 point to the system seer rating and you get a $50 tax credit. I think it's worthwhile but I'm not all that happy with the basic programmability of my ECM. Or at least I'm too dumb to figure out how to make it do what I want it to do.

I chose a multi-speed air handler for my new 14 SEER Goodman heat pump. Cost difference was about $300. I chose the multispeed because I wanted to keep the air handler basic. Replacement costs for a variable speed motor is 3 to 5x the cost of a multi-speed. Also, I like to run the fan a lot and the variable speed runs only at 30% of the low setting. Finally, the multi-speed air handler is rated at a higher HSPF rating (9.0) in heat pump mode which is what I need for the cold Baltimore winter - a heat pump that cranks out the heat.

This was my personal choice after a lot of research.

thank u gary and don for the replies.....i feel a little better now.....i know absolutley NOTHING about HVAC....i have never had to replace a unit before...the contractor never discussed variable or multi speed air handler, which makes me a little nervous...
thanks again!

skw

I disagree. If you want superior dehumidification, less noise-var spd is much quieter,better efficiency, better air cleaning if equipped with media cabinet, better room to room comfort/temp constancy, then the choice of var spd is a no brainer. And if you like to run your fan in "on" position for continuous air movement, then the var spd is only a fraction to operate compared to your conventional blower.

IMO

I second tigerdunes opinion

from what i have read on this site, the variable seems to be the way to go....i am so disappointed that our contractor did not even mention the different types....he has already placed the handler in the attic, so i guess it is too late to change to the variable speed...thanks for the replies.........

skw1009...

Below is a post from someone who paid almost $1000 for a motor. Part only, no labor. I'm figuring it's a variable speed motor for the air handler although she doesn't state it as such. I guess these things are great until they break and then the reality of the replacement cost hits you like a ton of bricks.

AC fan motor price reasonable?
Posted by diane_mn_2007 (My Page) on Mon, Jul 23, 07 at 14:42

I have a Bryant system and recently had the fan motor replaced. The part number is HD44AE131. I was charged $966 for just the part and I would like to know if this is reasonable. I found several sites online that offer this particilar part for far less but wanted to see if anyone could verify. Thanks

gary.....thanks for the info...parts replacement is definitley something to consider....i guess i just want to make sure that we are getting what we are paying for....in the contract, it only says 4 ton trane heat pump, no model number and nothing about the air handler....i now realize that there are several models to choose from.....i ask the contractor today which heat pump (model #) and he said XR13....we are paying $16,500 which includes a heat pump for the UL, adding air condition to the main level and all new duct work on both levels...we had 4 bids and all were very close....but i am not sure which model #'s the other bids were for.....the XR13 has not been delivered to the job yet....i am thinking about asking for the XL14i......not sure what the difference in price is or what the contractor will say.....thanks again!

Gary, that price don't make a whole lot of sense. The cost of my entire 3 ton variable speed air handler with the GE ECM motor was $799, with ten years of warranty. Methinks maybe Diane got taken for a ride.

Don:

If, after 10 years, your ECM motors breaks, you can buy a whole new Goodman air handler for $800 and replace the motor. You could then save the rest of the new air handler for spare parts, and still be ahead of the game.

SKW:

The XL14i would require a different air handler than the XR13. The XR13 has a 10 year warranty on the compressor and outdoor coil while the XB13 has only a 5 year warranty on the compressor and outdoor coil. You should request a 10 year PARTS AND LABOR warranty for peace of mind, especially if you're spending over $16k, and the quote was vague to begin with.

Best of luck.