I would not worry about the reciprocating vs. scroll compressor. I actually like the Climatuff (reciprocating) compressors. They are regarded by many in the industry as one of the most durable/reliable compressors ever produced. They are built by Trane, and I myself like them but know others prefer scroll compressors. They are used less in Trane's product line than they were in the past. Seems the scroll compressors can yield greater efficiency ratings in the larger tonnage (>3 ton) size range. As for the indoor air handler match, technically air handlers do not have a "capacity" per se but are given a nominal tonnage rating. The total system capacity is determined by the combination of the outdoor unit/air handler. The combination appropriate for your application would depend on a few factors, including airflow and sensible/latent heat ratio requirement as per your load calc (and compared to expanded performance data for the various rated combinations), as well as physical size restrictions. Capacity and efficiency ratings will vary with each matchup; generally the larger indoor air handlers can yield higher efficiency ratings, but the ratings should not be the sole determining factor for which air handler is selected. Sorry, I'm not familiar enough with all of the service co.'s covering the Annapolis territory to give you a meaningful recommendation. But best of luck to you in selecting the contractor that will size, install, and commission your equipment properly. This post was edited by ryanhughes on Tue, Feb 18, 14 at 23:35

Hi TD.. Haven't been on the boards in a bit so I apologize for the late response. Everything is working perfectly since the tstat was replaced on the 12th. System was charged and turned on and the difference from the previous system is amazing. The temps in the house are much more consistent and the upstairs is actually warm now. I think the replaced ductwork has made a big difference. The air flow upstairs seems a bit high compared to the downstairs (than the old system) so Ive got it on my list of things to ask the dealer whether it can be adjusted. They did install dampers on all the supplies so I'm sure something can be done. I am glad I followed the advice of many here and got the VP IaQ. It's full featured and very easy to program. I've set the Aux heat to only come on if outside temps are below 35 degrees and it seems to be working well so far. Will be interesting to see my first full month electric bill for January usage so I can compare it to the old system. And regarding the VP IAQ, maybe someone can answer this question for me. Over the weekend I noticed that the touch panel/display of the IAQ is loose inside the plastic frame. That is, when I tap it to change settings, it will move about 1/8" in all directions. Is this normal or should it be securely attached within its plastic frame? I am completely satisfied with the system and the installation performed by the dealer. Many thanks to you and Ryan for all your help during this process. It is greatly appreciated. Happy Holidays!!! Regards, Rich

Hi Neo, I guess that's where we run into a problem - we're just not sure if we're paying a fair amount for the labor/material for the ductwork, but it seems like we'll just have to go on instinct on this one. The installer from Costco won't give us the cost of just the Lennox equipment, so we don't have that number as well =( I will definitely verify about the evap coil and the valv - good to know! The XP17 is a single stage - initially we looked at a 2 stage, but we didn't see the need for it, so decided on the XP17. Here's the electric rates for our area: Basic charge $7.00 per month Delivery charge 2.887 cents per kWh Energy charge, Winter (November through April billing cycles) First 800 kWh 4.356 cents per kWh Next 2,200 kWh 6.001 cents per kWh Over 3,000 kWh 7.220 cents per kWh Energy charge, Summer (May through October billing cycles) First 800 kWh 4.356 cents per kWh Next 900 kWh 6.001 cents per kWh Over 1,700 kWh 7.220 cents per kWh Given that we rarely go below freezing for sustained periods - I think a heat pump is perfect for our climate too (nor do we get heat extremes). Also, since we have NO heat at night typically (we turn the pellet stoves off), I think we'll be happy with even a cool 62 in our house! Thanks again for your help!

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