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High dollar HVAC contractors tend to look down on Goodman because Goodman is sold through many different venues and made available to small-time installers, home builders, and even apartment house managers. Companies/Brands like Trane have a "protected dealer" network and their products are only available from a limited number of places. There is a huge price difference between Trane and Goodman. There used to be a fairly large quality difference as well, but Goodman's products have steadily improved, and they've taken so much of the market that they've pretty much figured it out. Plus Goodman offers a very good warranty, in part to combat their past image of "low quality". Most of the difference in price today between Trane and Goodman goes to pay for glossy brochures, national advertising campaigns, and higher profits for the protected dealers. Carrier makes big equipment for large office buildings. They should know how to make reliable gear, but their quality may have suffered due to the price competiveness of the residential market. The effectiveness and reliability of any HVAC equipment is also a pretty strong function of the design of the overall system (especially ductwork), the work of the installer, and the work done by any repair and maintenance people. Most ductwork in newer homes is under-sized, poorly installed flex duct run hither-and-thither through attics by underpaid immigrant labor. It always seemed idiotic to me to spend the effort to insulate and seal a home, only to send all the heated/cooled air outside the home for a trip through the unconditioned attic. But then Mrs Homeowner would rather have an extra bonus room than have the contractor figure out how to keep the ductwork inside the house. A good contractor will inspect your ductwork and recommend equipment that he knows he can maintain. For most people, the quality of the contractor makes more of a difference than the brand of equipment. Obviously, the guy you have been using doesn't make the grade, and should be "fired". You can learn more about these issues at "HVAC-talk dot com"
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