Potential Scam?

6 years ago

I was quoted a 4 ton 16 seer Armstrong HVAC paired with a 96 percent efficiency furnace. What was actually installed was a Armstrong 3.5 ton 14 seer system. The supplier registered the warranty and I received the docs today. After reviewing the model numbers I noticed that the system was a 14 seer 3.5 ton. When I asked the installer they said it is a 14 seer but when paired with a 96 percent efficiency unit it equals 16 seer. Is this accurate or a cover-up? Also,. The installer stated their supplier shipped the wrong size unit and they will pay me the difference between a 3.5 and 4 ton or install a 4 ton condenser if I wish. Since the installer registered the unit do you think they did not notice the difference? I have used this installer for a few years and they have always upfront but I find it hard to believe they didn't know. I think they figured I would never notice.

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Comments (7)

tigerdunes
6 years ago
It is possible to get close to a 16 SEER Rating but I would need to know all the model numbers for furnace, outside AC condenser, and evap coil to see the AHRI matching number. However, I would be less concerned about the SEER and more concerned about the BTU difference between a 3 1/2 Ton vs 4 Ton AC condenser.

IMO
mike_home
6 years ago
What was the size of the condenser you replaced? Have you had to chance to run the AC on a very hot day? Installers tend to quote over sized equipment. The 3.5 ton might be the correct size. The installer does own you a refund and it should be more than just the difference in the cost of the condenser.
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Original Author
6 years ago
The previous unit was a 4 ton Westinghouse installed by the previous owner. It cools 2nd and 3rd floor which is 1600 SQ ft. Very possible that a 3.5 ton is the right size as it is cooling better than the 4 ton I would say. I'm just not happy that on the quote and on the final bill it states "installed 4 ton 16 seer unit".
mike_home
6 years ago
The 3.5 ton should be fine for 1600 sq. feet on an upper floor. It should be quieter and provide better humidity control. It is annoying when you don't get what you pay for and the homeowner has to figure it out.

The model numbers can be entered on the AHRI Directory. It will show the SEER and EER ratings for your system. This assumes the configuration you have is a valid match.
tigerdunes
6 years ago
The wholesale cost difference of a 3 1/2 Ton vs 4 Ton AC condenser (single stage, same model) would be relatively small. I still believe though if you are satisfied with the 3 1/2 Ton, the dealer does owe you a refund. I would want to see a copy of the registration for the warranty to see that it is correct.

TD
sktn77a
6 years ago
I doubt a 14 SEER condenser can be jacked up to 16 seer. Adding a variable speed blower may get you 1 seer but not 2. Need model numbers for the condenser, coil and furnace.
mike_home
6 years ago
This same discussion occurred recently where the condenser had a 14 SEER sticker, but the installer said the overall rating was 16 SEER. You can find that posting here. I think this is done to conform to the requirement that condensers installed in the South must be rated at least 14 SEER.