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IamSauerKraut t1_j5jnonn wrote

Plenty of folks will talk about the unit that delivers the heat, but how is that heat distributed in your house? Is your unit delivering via forced hot water into a baseboard or radiator? Is it forced hot air? Replacing a unit and its fuel source is relatively easy (ignoring the price) but if you currently are heated by the distribution of hot water, then you've got a whole nuther layer of work and cost to consider. Look at all parts of your heating/ac situation, consider the work that needs done, price it out as best you can, and then make a decision.

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infinite_zero OP t1_j5kcnwv wrote

Forced hot air. Ducts were redone a few years back so they should be well-sealed with efficient paths.

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IamSauerKraut t1_j5klflc wrote

If you go with a heat pump setup, you might want to skip the energy efficient varieties due to the size of your house and because it can take a bit of time for the temp to get up to/stay where you want it. Some will poo-poo that as a small consideration but if it is important to anyone in your house...

Electric vs. NG vs. propane.

Asked around a few years ago on the makes family members use in other states and the 5 which are used are Magic Chef, Lennox, Amana, Trane, and Carrier. The latter 2 are used by several. Magic Chef was bought out by Lennox ~ 1990, so I am guessing that unit is way old. Opinions on Lennox are of the meh variety, primarily due to fuel used. 2 Amana units in ranchers are HE electric units which have some issues on sub-20 degree days. The Trane and Carrier units are most often used and are highly regarded, although one Carrier had the burner box installed incorrectly. Servicing is an issue due to lack of trained technicians and pricing. Amazing how much that changes from state to state. Guess it really is a buyer beware thing.

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