Thanks tk03. I understand what you and udarrell are saying. I have a call into a window joint to see if I can get storm windows on my house soon. At the same time, I do need to act on a new system soon, too. So, let's say I get the house fairly sealed up with storms, maybe new weather stripping around the doors if needed. Then, from my OP, which system set up would be optimal for 2700-2800 sq. ft. home with 17 registers (+ 5 more in basement) and which of the dealers has done an adequate job of sizing my needs? Here's what my Trane rep had to say about my questions: "The static air pressure test is not required. Balancing of the dampers can make a nice improvement, without the static air pressure test. The exposed ductwork in the basement can be sealed with foil tape or duct sealer (caulk type or 1 gallon can). Home Depot has those items so you can do on your own if you like. The cost for us to do the duct sealing would range from $250.00 to $500.00 depending how much time it would take. The air infiltration for your home is most likely average, the equipment that I recommended will do the job well. The duct sizes within the walls cannot be modified to increase airflow very easily. The existing ducts that are in your house are typical for the homes in the area. The variable speed furnace will react to the duct work and adjust airflow. How? Electronically it monitors the RPM of the motor and checks the amp rating and speed settings. If it is not moving fast enough the power level is increased to the motor and the speed is increased. The current furnace cannot respond to the ductwork like the XV95. The TRANE XV95 can move up to 40% more air." My response: "I'm just concerned that if I were to make home improvements after purchase (buy replacement windows) that the furnace and/or AC would be oversized for my needs due to higher efficiency, less heat gain/loss from the replacement windows. At the sizes you recommended, would I be in danger of the AC satisfying the thermostat too quickly or not removing the proper amount of humidity if I were to tighten up the house with new windows, thus still leaving me with warm/cool spots in my house?" Again, thanks for your help! - Angrysalad

buck one of my pet peeves is how GCs and HVAC subs want to ruin good new home construction comfort which is exactly what has occured to you. only with divine intervention can you effectively heat/cool three floors off one system without zoning controls. here's my suggestion. not cheap but will be a vast improvement over what you have. I would install a separate system for upstairs most probably a three ton but you need to verify with a professionally performed load calculation for correct sizing. this three ton would be a high eff HP system with var speed air handler. you will require a complete new ductwork system installed in the attic with supplies/returns cut in the ceiling. you need to determine if existing system is salvageable. if not, I would look at a dual fuel system-VS gas furnace with two stg HP, and zoning controls for the main floor/basement. this will not be cheap but you will be happy in the long run. For the main floor/basement system ,I recommend Carrier which has the best system with integrated zoning controls for residential. IMO

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We got an $8000 bid on a Trane XR 17. The unit got sent to the wrong address, but never run? What do you all think? 1.New pad 2.new electrical disconnect box 3. New thermostat(programmable and wifi compatible) 4. New return work being done to improve smaller return that is currently with high wall grille. Also replace filter grille in LR to match new one. Also re running of return line to get it out of way of front side of system. 5. New copper refrigerant lines. 6. Removal of all current equipment. 7. Sealing up of all duct connections at the return and supply plenum with the attachment of the new larger air handler. Spot wrapping of some of the deficient areas that are lacking in installation. Charging system with refrigerant, testing and starting up new system. 10. This service includes a 1 year Comfort Club Membership(the name of our service program) 11. This includes all taxes, permits, labor and inspections.