Option 2 has a 2-stage compressor though I don't like that idea without a variable speed fan motor which is what option 1 has. Option 1 has a single stage condenser but is a premium unit. All things considered, I'd prefer option 1, but what about thermostat control? The Evolution controller would work well with this system. The Aspen coil is not a Bryant OEM coil which is what option 2 provides, so compare the warranties on those (Bryant should be 10 year).

option #1 with either a qualifying tax credit mdl 165 or 167 condenser.

you want the Evolution controller plus a Carrier "T" tin plted evap coil model. Pls no third part coil like Aspen.
wouldn't have it. I would also include a good 4-5" pleated media filter cabinet.

IMO
Good Luck!

The warranty on both evap coils is 10years. Does that make a difference with Opt#1?

What would I be gaining by having the Evolution controller? I didn't look into the thermostat and I can't seem to find anything on the quotes for it, so I'm assuming it's a standard thermo control. I don't need bells/whistles on controller (I think he said it'll tell you when to change filter and you can use your phone to program it) so I figured a standard programmable thermo would do the trick. Am I missing something on this aspect of the system?

Evolution controller does much more with regards to humidity control, airflow control, and overall comfort. Ask your dealer about it. There is a price premium, but with that system, it would make sense to have it in my mind.

rusty

purchasing an Evolution furnace without an Evolution controller is a mistake.

Obviously if you want the tax credit(which you should), you will not get it with an 80% eff furnace which you were quoted. Therefore you want the credit from the condensor. Ask dealer if the Aspen coil configuration qualifies for the tax credit and for him to provide the verifying AHRI Directory number. I still would want the Carrier "T" tin plated coil.

IMO

Opt#1 said that with these components it would end up being SEER 16, EER 13 and the ARI# 3336491.

Opt#2 didn't give me an ARI# but said I would get a certificate w/ ARI# and his quote has a note that it qualifies for fed tax credit.

Assuming I could manage to get the 2nd quote to be changed with a Condenser 126ANA030, Furnace 315AAV, Evap Coil CNFVP. And assuming that this combination would still meet all the city/fed requirements. Would it be a better opt than opt#1 with the Condenser 165ANA030,Evap Coil C36A, and Furance 315AAV?

Can't wait to get this rolling so that me and my little pup Rusty can get cental ac/heat again.

Thanks for your feedback.

Rusty, I also just posted about Bryant. What chart are you referring to?

Thanks,

Jane

Hey Jane,

It's the 'compare products'. Say you go to www.bryant.com, on the gas furnaces section, clicked on 'compare products'. It's just an easy way to see all their products/line on one page versus opening up each one to get the details.

http://www.bryant.com/products/furnaces/gas/comparison.shtml

This is probably a dumb question...but I'll ask....

Is the evolution control something that I can install? I looked it up and the part retails for about $400. It's considered an upgrade and I'm sure the contractor will markup the price. Is it something as simple like plug and play or a couple of wires to deal with? Or is it much more complicated requiring some kind of programming or checking gauges?

Let me chime in here...

If you are getting Bryant or Carrier equipment, you should definitely get the Evolution/Infinity control. It's the main thing that separates Bryant/Carrier from the other brands. Yes, you can install it yourself, but your equipment has to support it to get the "most" out of the system. The 315 furnace supports it and the 165 condenser supports it... but the 313 and 126 do not. I also do like the dual-stage compressor of the 126, but to get that in an Evolution controllable condenser, you need to get the 167.

Thus, I would try to get both vendors to change their quotes to a 315 furnace, 167 condenser, and definitely a Bryant "tinned" coil and see if it's worth it to you. You would then have a two stage a/c with superior humidity control along with variable speed furnace.

To give you a better idea of what Evolution control does, it actually communicates with the equipment instead of a dumb thermostat saying turn on or off. The Evolution will detect your equipment like a PC detects added components, give you the model and serial numbers of the units, analyzes cfm of air flow capable through your ducts, logs faults and issues in equipment, refrigerant levels, etc.

One last thing, did you ever consider a heat pump instead of a straight a/c unit? Price shouldn't be too much more and it will give you even more heating flexibility.

The control pretty much "configures itself." However, as far as connecting the wires where they need to be between the control interface and control board in the furnace, I would say it's best left up to the installers. There are some settings that you may not be familiar with which may require some adjustment for your particular installation. You could explain to your contractor in words such as, "I understand it's about a $400 upgrade, do you suggest it?" just to show that you are aware of its cost, but money is to be made as in any kind of industry, and it's usually in the upgrades where they do.

Jumping in here because my Contractor #1 just told me that Contractor #2's bid was not eligible for the tax credit, and it is the almost same as is being suggested to Rusty. I am pretty sure that the 315 with the 165 or 167 will only take an ADP or Aspen coil to be eligible for the tax credit. But I could be wrong. Tigerdunes, can you confirm?

I was told this was not okay:
315AAV036070
165ANA024
CNPVP2414ATA
Evolution Control

He is correct -- that combination actually only achieves 13 EER and 15 SEER, not meeting the full requirements for the tax credit. Probably why the others had to go to the next size furnace to gain more efficiency with the larger blower. I still can't say I like the idea of oversizing to obtain the tax credit, but depending on the calcs, it may or may not be "too oversized."

If you kept everything the same but substituted the condenser for the 2-stage 167ANA024, the combo would qualify. Same goes with the 180ANA024.

I'm going w/ option#1 (with evolution control) and plan to call the contractor tomorrow. It's seems to be the best deal/setup.

Thanks a ton for all the information and suggestions!!! It was hard to find someone knowledgeable on the subject or get an impartial opinion. I'm glad I came across this forum.

Go for it, Rusty! The only suggestion I would have is go with a coil that has ATA at the end. GOod luck.

Jane

Yes on the tin-coated coil (ATA). They are pretty much standard now given the problems experienced with the original copper coils. These have a 10-year parts warranty as well.