Today I replaced a 15 year old Amana Heat pump [thumbs down] with a Carrier Heat pump. I got three estimates, and Mister Bird was the only estimator that climbed into the attic. He had the most convincing idea on fixing the almost non existent airflow in the upstairs bedrooms. It involved $600 of return ducting in the rooms. Next was Darryl, I'll describe as the measurements and parts 'guy'. He came out and crawled. All over in the attic taking measurement and I guess checking on if what Mr. Bird saw was indeed what should be done. I frank discussion ensued on those bedrooms. It took Darryl THREE trips into the attic, phone calls to Bird, and several photos to show me what the problems were and what the outcomes might be. We finally hammered out a plan of action I could live with. Pretty good for a foreman returning to the attic over and over. Today, the actual installers called @6:30, and were on the job before 7 AM. they were Tom, Dick, and Harry....- No Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego..... OK enough fooling around you may want to request these men: Ric, Carlos and Antony. English was their first language, if that worries you, but I'm sure They were fluent in Spanish if that gives you a better level of comfort. They were personable, approachable, professional. IMO Ric who I would call the straw boss has seen it all when it comes to AC installs. They laid down drop cloths and went right to demolishing/removing the air handler in the attic. Once the old handler junk was removed, Ric investigated the airflow to the bedrooms by crawling into the old metal duct! More photos were taken, and he showed me the problem, which neither Mr Bird, nor Darryl has visualized. 30 years ago, the original installers had slapped flat panels into the ductwork. they were supposed to be bent as needed to allow a balanced amount of air into the rooms, but they were never adjusted, just flat across, blocking maybe 85% of airflow. Ric's contention is I didn't need dedicated return vents, just jerk those darn baffles out, as the huge angled supply duct was fitted with scoops already to insure diversion of air into the room ducting. Another 3 way conference was held via phones, and a 3rd plan was implemented, the original return duct was increased to 20" from 18" baffles removed and ceiling grill replaced with what I'll describe as a double adjustable grill. No room ducting was needed, and my cost was lowered $400.
Bottom line: I think this is SUPERIOR service. Time will tell come July- August 2025, but I sincerely believe every man strived to do his best, and do the right thing for the customer. In my instance i wanted to know what was going on, and they were proud to get me upon the ladder and personally eyeball their installation. I learned a lot!
Only my wife of 40+ years gets 5 stars You gotta be real good to get 4 stars from me, and Ric, Carlos and Tony et al earned it! read more
