Carrier System Replacement — What to Consider

Sizing — get a Manual J load calculation

The right tonnage for your home is not 'whatever you had before.' Insulation, windows, ductwork, and Florida sun exposure should be calculated using ACCA Manual J. Oversized systems cycle short, don't dehumidify, and wear out faster. Undersized systems run nonstop and never reach setpoint. We do a Manual J on every replacement quote — no exceptions.

SEER2 rating — what's required, what's worth it

Florida minimum is 14.3 SEER2 (2023+). Going from 14.3 to 17 SEER2 saves real money on a 3-ton system over its life — typically $200–$400/year. Going from 17 to 20+ SEER2 saves less per dollar invested. The sweet spot for most Treasure Coast homes is 16–18 SEER2.

Single-stage vs 2-stage vs variable

• Single-stage Comfort: budget option, less dehumidification
• 2-stage Performance: best value for most homes, much better humidity control
• Variable-speed Infinity: quietest, best humidity, supports zoning, highest cost

Don't skip the ductwork

Florida ductwork is often undersized, leaky, or uninsulated in the attic. A new $13,000 Carrier system on bad ductwork will perform like a 14-year-old system. Static pressure test before you sign — we include it free on every replacement quote.

Indoor air quality add-ons

• Carrier Infinity Air Purifier — captures and kills mold spores, viruses
• UV lights in the air handler — keep the coil and drain pan biofilm-free
• Whole-home dehumidifier — for stubbornly humid homes
• MERV 11+ media filter cabinet — better filtration without static pressure penalty