The price of propane is rising, isn't it? In this case, I'd consider heat pumps that will switch over to propane when the temperature is low enough to warrant the use of propane over the efficient heat pumps (around 35-40* or so). Few matchups will get near the 19-20 SEER range. You need the sizes and full model numbers of the equipment being quoted to know for sure. Trane, Carrier and Bryant all make fine products. If going with Carrier, ask for a tin-plated copper coil (heard of leaking problems with Carrier's *ACA standard copper coils--I guess all mfg's have leak problems). The Infinity/Evolution is a nice system. I personally favor Trane over Carrier--I think Trane's quality is hard to beat, but that's just my opinion. I do wish the XL19i was available in R410A, but that will be a little later. Is your electricity particularly expensive? Going with the top-of-the-line SEER/units may not have a great payback. 20 years old? They've done their time. As far as duct noise goes, if your ductwork is sized correctly, then you should be fine. However, the variable-speed blowers maintain proper CFM and will overcome slightly deficient ductwork systems. If the ductwork system is undersized/deficient, it will be louder as it attempts to maintain proper CFM (versus the PSC blowers where if the ductwork was poor it wouldn't vary its speed to maintain airflow). If it's quiet now, I don't think it will be a problem--I'm just pointing this out about variable-speed blowers. Once you get a few quotes, post back with the info and we can advise.

Dillon

if operating costs are important to you, then I would get rid of the gas furnace/AC and go straight high eff HP systems with var speed blowers, especially considering your location/climate along with electric rate. If coastal area, go with Trane or AmStd;if inland location, go Carrier or Bryant.

today's HPs are vastly different from those 10 yrs and older. and with 20 yr old systems, you will never be able to conserve what you can save over today's more eff mdls.

IMO

Many thanks for the follow-ups. I will ask each contractor about the HP vs the gas and get back to this site with proposals. I really want to take advantage of the double utility rebates in our area. We are in-land (Gainesville). Heat does not mean much to me but a/c does! Also will ask them for the Infinity or Honeywell thermostats. One last thing, are these electronic filters really worth the cost (Asthma in our family) especially since we need 2 units? Appreciate your time today...Dillon 1

Dillon

here are my personal specs for new HPs..

15 SEER, 12.5 EER, 9 HSPF
full BTUs in both cooling and heating for your rated size
var speed air handler
scroll compressor preferred
electronic defrost preferred
staged heat strip backup
thermostat that controls blower speed

my favorite sgl stage models are Trane XL15i(or sister company AmStd Heritage 15) and Carrier Performance 15(or sister company Bryant Preferred 15).

Ditch the propane.

Here is a link to a fuel comparison calculator. Crunch the numbers. The results should be an eyeopener.

IMO

Here is a link that might be useful: Fuel Comparison Calculator

I'll continue with my mantra of 13 SEER unit with a heat recovery unit to provide free hot water as well as boosting a/c efficiency. I'm in DeLand and would not have a system without it. My personal view is that HRU's should be mandated by law in FL.

Also will add my 2 cents on thermostats... I now use a Ritetemp from Home Depot...$99 and has a radio-based remote control. Wake up cold or hot? Adjust temp without leaving bed. Anything without a remote now seems not much better than a monkey hanging on the wall controlling temperature. Living with the remote thermostat makes it obvious that all will have them soon but right now, Home Depot's is the only game in town....You may want to try adding the HRU to your existing AC for a quick $30-$50 cut in your summer power bill. The unit is easily reconnected to a new system when you change out down the road.

Thanks Gary, Tigerdunes and Ryan! This really helps. HP sounding more attractive. I will get right on this because I really want the $1100 x 2 rebates offered by the utility for a short time plus any rebates I might get from Carrier or Trane. I am going to start by emailing the 3 companies with my needs "spelled out" thanks to you guys including heat recovery possibilities. I also want them to quote filter cab. Have enjoyed following Demi and how you all have helped her! Will advise with the proposals.
Dillon