Carrier Base Series heat pumps are the least efficient and most affordable from Carrier. They are a low-cost choice for those who still want the Carrier brand. Both models in this series are backed by the same 10-year warranty Carrier’s top heat pumps carry.
This overview of the Carrier Base heat pumps will help you decide if they’re what you’re looking for. In our heat pump ratings posts, you will find even more details to help you evaluate these models. For comparable models from other brands, see our ratings of the Lennox Merit Series, American Standard Silver Series, the Bryant Legacy Line or Armstrong heat pumps.
Overview of the Base Heat Pumps
Models: There are just 2 models in this series, the Base 25HBC5 (16 SEER/9.0 HSPF) and the Base 25HBC3 (15 SEER/8.5 HSPF).
Energy Efficiency: The Carrier Base 25HBC5 is an Energy Star rated model that might be eligible for utility rebates in your area. Having an Energy Star unit in the most affordable series is one of the reasons Carrier is a highly-rated brand.
Performance: Both of these models are single-stage heat pumps. They run at full capacity whenever they are on. For a more comfortable indoor climate, consider Carrier 2-stage heat pumps – though they start at 15% higher prices.
Price: These are very affordable heat pumps from Carrier, though not as cheap as Ducane or Pane heat pumps. They’re of higher quality than those, however.
Pros and Cons of the Carrier Base Heat Pumps
Price is the major benefit of these heat pumps. Plus, you know that Carrier is confident in their quality by covering them with their best 10-year limited warranty.
The drawbacks are obvious: these are single-stage heat pumps that won’t produce the indoor comfort of 2-stage or modulated heat pumps. You may experience slight temperature fluctuations during operation. Secondly, these aren’t as efficient as Carrier Infinity heat pumps but that is partly what makes them more appealing to homeowners in moderate climates who don’t need higher efficiency. They are also attractive to those who plan to sell their home and want to save money while offering prospective buyers the respected Carrier label.
Summary
If saving money on the heat pump is more important to you than the performance benefits of staged heating and cooling, the Carrier Base heat pumps might be worth a look. They offer solid reliability, a good warranty and an attractive price tag.
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