Doesn't make too much sense. A 3.5 ton system has 1 return and the 2.5 ton system has 2 returns. If anything, should be switched. A 3.5 ton system will do much better with more than 1 return. Brand wise both Trane and Rheem are fine. You need to get all model numbers, "Trane air handler" doesn't give you enough info. Sizing also differs a bit. Did they do any true heat gain/heat load calculations to determine sizing? Improper sizing lowers efficiency, comfort, and equipment lifespan. 6 tons may be correct, or it may not be. I have a single 3.5 ton system to heat and cool my 3000 sqft house in Maryland, and on the cooling side it does very well keeping the house at 72-74 degrees in the summer with temperatures ranging into the 90s.

cruzian

I agree with Ryan. Post complete model numbers of both inside air handler and outside condenser. what mdl thermostat? what kind of ductwork system? what insulation R rating?

what size living space for both floors?

I do not consider one return for main floor as adequate.

I assume nat gas is not available. correct?

house to have basement or built over crawl space?

post back with info and I will be glad to offer an opinion.

IMO

Thank you so much for your help. The house is being built on a raised slab. The first floor is 2165 heated sq. footage. The living room & family room have 18 ft. ceilings. The second floor is 881 sq. feet heated with an additional 302 sq. ft. bonus room. (That is why I have a seperate damper)
The contractors say that because of the living room and family room not having any attic above and the house on a slab they will have some trouble with the duct work.

I will have a two sided fireplace between the living room/ & family room for extra heat in winter. (Just in case)

The contractor did not give me model numbers. I will call him tomorrow and post them.

Have great night.

I think you would be happy with either brand. The Rheem will probably be less expensive but will still perform strongly if the numbers are there. Compare apples and apples with the two brands on the numbers and go from there. I also agree that you need multiple returns.

In addition to model numbers, I strongly encourage you to discuss the following items:

Returns--if only one can be added, it must be large enough and centrally located. A main floor may not need 3.5 tons, especially new construction and 2165 sqft. 3 tons may be more adequate, but a load calculation will tell with more certainty.

It's not easy to approach a contractor and seemingly question their design, but I think it can be done in an appropriate manner. After all, you are the customer and you have to live with the system for years to come. Best of luck with the decision and please keep us posted.

I have some forms and guides you may find useful at the link below.
Check out #2 the Contractor Score Card from ACCA. It gives an easy way to compare quotes, helps you ask the right questions and evaluate the answers.
Alabama Habitat for Humanity Sustainable Construction Helps
http://www.alabamahabitat.org/sustainable/
Andy

Does seem like a lot of capacity for the sq ft UNLESS they aren't building it very well or they have oodles of glass, especially facing east & west.

Something tells me 18ft ceilings will have a lot of glass.

I finally have the model numbers. Thank you for your patience.

First Floor: Heat Pump Model No. 4TWR3042A1000A, Air Handler Model No. 4TEC3F42C1000A

Second Floor: Heat Pump Model No. 4TWR3030A1000A, Air Handler Model No. 4TEC3F30B1000A

Thermostat Model No. TCONT401AN21MA

My house has an eastern exposure. Yes, alot of glass in rear on a golf course.

This is exactly why you needed to get the model numbers. They are quoting you NON variable-speed air handlers, reducing your efficiency and comfort. The XLi line should be matched with Trane's 4TEE variable speed air handlers. I also suggest using the Trane TCONT 802/3 thermostats with these systems. A variable speed air handler model number would be something like 4TEE3F40B1000A. The fact that the dealer did this is questionable, hopefully by mistake.

The previous post was for a 13 seer model, which I am not using. The correct info is:
First Floor: Heat Pump Model No. 4TWR5042E1000A, Air Handler Model No. 4TEE3F65B1000A

Second Floor: Heat Pump Model No. 4TWR5030E1000A, Air Handler Model No. 4TEE3F39A1000A or 4TEE3F40B1000A (Air handler model is determined by size of
area where it is being placed.)
Please note that these air handlers are variable speed.

The model number for that thermostat is TCONT803AS32DA.

Thank you again.

cruzian

These are XR15 Trane condensers, more efficient.

I do question the need for a 2 1/2 ton condenser for second floor-get a load calculation.

I would want more returns for main floor.

And if you do elect Trane, I would want a split 7/12KW heat strip for main floor system.

While the 803 stat is OK, you might consider HW Vision Pro IAQ stat that has 'dehumidify on demand" feature for both systems.

IMO
Good Luck!

Agree with above comments. For some reason I misread your previous post and thought they were pairing XL15i units with 4TEC blowers - my mistake. The XR15's and 4TEE air handlers are good matchups. That's a 5 ton air handler on the 3.5 ton unit but this is okay as long as they adjust the airflow for 3.5 tons. Same goes for the other air handler -- the airflows need to be changed from factory settings or else you will have too much air for the given tonnage. Very important.

No problem with Trane equipment -- it is a good product -- but you may wish to investigate Carrier's product line as well.