Walker I don't think that's a high price at all for a Trane gas/AC package unit. Pls note the XB13c only has a 10 yr warranty on heat exchanger. By moving up to the XL13c, you get a 20 yr warranty on the heat exchanger. Depending on upgrade price, that would be the least that I would want. Of course the XL14c is very nice, more expensive, and quieter with the var speed blower. Plus it as two stg heat-would require a true two stg thermostat for best operation. I will assume sizing is correct, that lineset is correct size, and that you have good filter protection for blower motor and evap coil. You might want to check to see if the three ton is available in different heating sizes. IMO

centralcal how did existing 3 1/2 ton system perform as far as cooling? only a correctly performed load calculation will determine your size. it sounds like your ductwork needs modification especially your returns. I don't like the idea of using drywall for returns. this should be corrected. In fact, your complete ductwork system should be evaluated and perhaps replaced altogether. as to the Bryant 577, this package unit comes with aluminum heat exchanger with an upgrade to the stainless steel. I would opt for the StSt model. The 577 while having a high eff blower motor is not var speed which is preferred. Not a deal breaker if summer humidity is not a factor for your area/climate. I would also recommend the tin plated evap coil. I believe the gas heat is single stage-I prefer a two stg model. I will not comment on the Amana/Goodman. Quotes should include a new refrigerant lineset and good programmable stat. IMO Good Luck!

I have a split system and I'm no longer considering a packaged unit because I don't want it on the roof since my ducts are in the attic. Installation of the packaged unit in the attic is not an option as far as I can tell and I wanted the packaged unit located where the current furnace is at. There's already electric and gas outlets up there and a return line for water. Initially, I was not thinking about the building code modifications. I was just thinking in terms of the components in terms of reliability, efficiency, cost, and maintenance. I thought it would be similar to installing a separate washer and gas dryer compared to installing a single unit that does both wash and dry.

tiger, you are correct, i should not have included the 2 ton quote for system comparison. It was one of the first quoted and I have simply referred to it as a general idea of the price difference between pack and hybrid. It is roughly $1500 less than the 2.5 ton hybrid. Speculation tells me there is ~$500 difference between the 2.5 ton gas pack and the infinity hybrid. I just thought that for that amount the upgrade to Infinity system/hybrid was the better buy. American Std. dealer had originally quoted an Amana unit, and when I notified him that I was not going with him based on not wanting the Amana brand, he offered the AmStd as an alternative. That peaked my interest and I put my plans on hold. During our negotiations I was discussing the single stage compressor on the AmStd vs Infinity dual stage, and the Carrier was hybrid etc. He told me that if it was the hybrid that I wanted he would provide that at the same price as well. ($6781) I thought that was a bit odd as well, but I figured it just confirmed how much markup he really had in the Amana. The controller is a Honeywell (did not give specific model) and it does have an outdoor sensor. I am totally on the fence on this one, either of the two units are more than sufficient for me. We do not plan to leave this location and want a system that will be reliable and viable for years to come. Both companies have been in the business for a long long time and have good reputations in the area. I feel like the Infinity offers more features and probably is more advanced, but the AmStd is an excellent unit as well and the warranty is superior. Please if I am wrong feel free to enlighten me, I need unbiased opinions to help me with this. I have asked the AmStd dealer what is required to maintain the warranty (if anything) and how the single stage compressor efficiency compares to the Carrier's dual stage. In addition I asked the Carrier dealer if he did insure that my existing ductwork is sized/compatible with the Infinity's requirements. I did not follow him under the floor when he was here, so I am not sure what he checked on the ductwork. I do know all were extremely satisfied with the condition and quality of the ductwork. However I had read that the ECM motor on the Infinity requires specific sizing to ensure it functions properly. Thanks again for your input!