I see you have also posted over at HVAC-Talk (I was following the thread there). Let me know if you have any additional questions. While I would prefer R-410a, the XL19i is a fine system with a nice 50%/100% capacity split. I've been told it's a big unit. In the end, I think you'll be happy with any one of those units--all of exceptional quality, all relatively quiet, all relatively efficient...

Gary, Selling AC systems retail is the choice of the distributor and not looked on kindly by the manufacturer. I can assure you when a problem arises and it will, they will be in hot water. Sometimes a small or struggling distributor will overlook the dealer damage it can cause by selling systems looking for the quick turn and higher profit. If you look hard enough, you will find any name brand out there somewhere that can be purchased. For instance I could have told you where to get a Goodman in Pennsylvania for instance for less. You did this of course from CA? The sad part about the EPA rules is there is nothing stopping anybody from buying AC Systems over the counter without your EPA card, just can't buy gas. The rules of course state the installer must be certified to handle and have equipment available to recover should a problem arise or when removing the old unit but, thats it. At that point whoÂs watching or cares for that matter? There has never been to date that I am aware a homeowner fined for blatant release or uncertified or improper handling of refrigerant. When a supply house say's they canÂt sell it to you without certification, in my eyes they are doing the right thing and just using EPA as a crutch versus just telling you no- Wholesale only! If I recall Gary you bought the stuff and had someone install it. I am glad it worked out. So many times I hear people will have equipment shipped, family member signs for it, it is damaged and now you are stuck. Then there is the potential problem that may arise like a DOA compressor, bad parts, Â. Since the installer absorbs labor to a point, even though parts are covered, the installer was only working for side wages and what if he hurts himself? Parts warranty is a loser for suppliers, imagine if your condenser compressor was DOA, it could be quite difficult to get your local distributor to handle any parts or allowances if they never sold the unit, get my meaning? Too many times they will just say pound salt, go back to where you bought it. As far as I am concerned, $5400 was a great price for what you would have got, especially with the variable speed. Until you experience V/S, you will never know what you missed out on with comfort, reduced noise & humidity and today most importantly significantly less energy usage. Ryan, Yes the low latent is surprising on the 16 yet, you must consider the longer run time increasing moisture removal capability in the equation with the lower operating head pressures which adds to energy efficiency. 14" is enough, instead of using their base though I would go with a heavy built bottom that extends off of the side and that will allow you to use an appropriate sized drop that wonÂt affect the air flow at the transitions Your summers can be hot in MD. I would go with the best you can afford; it will pay you back in efficiency and resale. Depending on how long you plan on living there, I have discovered as in my own home sale last year up north, consumers and buyers home inspectors are recognizing quality efficient HVAC systems and it has factored into their buying decisions. Years ago, people never paid attention to that stuff.

village I took a look at the CEE HVAC directory today for matching AC systems for the 3.5 ton XL15i vs the 4 ton 2 stg XL16i. There was less than 1 SEER difference between these two models-15.75 vs 16.25. I would not want to be undersized though for Florida. If you are certain of your sizing, then I would go for for the XL15i. Don't use Trane stat. Insist upon the Honeywell Vision Pro IAQ which handles humidity control better than anything Trane offers. You may save a few dollars looking at the comparable Am Std Allegiance systems. IMO Here is a link that might be useful: CEE HVAC Directory

Tubeman What thermostat was quoted? What size heat strip? To your question and I will assume you plan on being in this home for 10+ years, my advice would be the XR15 configuration especially taking into acct your location and that cooling is more important and has a longer season than heating. $1500 is not a steal but it's not absurd either. Perhaps a little negotiating with contractor or dealer is called for. Ask him to sharpen his pencil. I would ask him to upgrade you at his cost difference plus 10% which would be more than fair. I assume the HVAC cost would be incorporated into the mortgage so relatively speaking the cost difference really is inconsequential. Ductwork cost is over and above figures you listed? As a rule of thumb and I know one has to be careful here, you would not want to be over 10% HVAC cost of the cost of new home construction. If you do elect the XR13, I would want the same VS Hyperion air handler quoted for the XR15. My ideas. IMO Good Luck!