2 tons to 3 tons - that's significant. Did this company say that they plan to do a load calculation to ensure that this isn't oversized, which will impact humidity control in the summertime. Additionally, 3 tons will require additional duct capacity compared to the previous 2 ton system (which may have had marginal duct work to begin with, don't know how big your current duct system is but sadly not uncommon). Variable speed air handlers on undersized duct systems can be problematic as far as noise / electricity consumptions. The ductwork definitely needs to be sized appropriately to handle an extra ton of capacity. These are some important things to consider and address with the dealer. The scope of work seems reasonable overall. Some things I'll point out that I don't see in this proposal compared to the previous: AprilAire 600 Humidifier Honeywell F100 Air Cleaner New ductwork for return and supply in utility room (I'm actually not sure how involved the modifications will need to be based on this line item; the new proposal does specify a new return box and trunk however.) Load Calculation Versa Grip Duct Sealant Surge Protector Nitrogen Purge 10 years warranty on parts, labor and compressor If the air cleaner and humidifier aren't important items to you (I enjoy the added comfort a humidifier provides in the wintertime even though they do require seasonal maintenance that can typically be done by the homeowner, but I would at least want the air cleaner for the equipment's sake). I feel there is a definitive difference in complete work scope here. Perhaps these two options could be removed from the other estimate to make the two proposals more comparable. The Bryant 225BNA model is a bit nicer unit. Thanks for giving us an update. I know all the details can get confusing. I'm not here to convince you to go in one direction over the other, but I'm happy to answer any further questions you have and add comments as appropriate. I look forward to seeing any further advice other members provide. Best of luck! This post was edited by ryanhughes on Fri, May 16, 14 at 15:18

Posted by tigerdunes (My Page) on Thu, Nov 20, 08 at 12:13 Cowgirl with good new home construction, I suspect you are oversized both heating and cooling especially first two quotes. I strongly recommend you insist on seeing the load calculations in writing from your HVAC dealers as well as performing one yourself for comparison purposes. BTW, what is your electric rate? If you decide on radiant heat, I would consider pairing with a high eff HP. If you select a furnace,I would want at least a var speed two stg model. The Bryant Evolution is top of line equipment. IMO

Has any contractor done a load calculation? It is difficult to tell from your posts whether the sizes are correct. 160,000 BTUs for heating, and 4 tons for cooling seem big, but they could be correct. Did you ever get accurate area dimensions for the first and second floors? Why the XV80 and not a XV95 for the second floor? Is it a cost issue?

No problems if installed correctly. This is really a misnomer because it applies to ANY equipment. That is the problem that can't be ignored. I am an opponent of the mini split for the simple reason they are more or less single room air conditioners. In other words you are going to need space on a wall in every room to mount the cooling/ heating head. (more equipment) The mini splits could all go down at the same time... this depends on the design of the system. They make multi head capable condensers... meaning multiple cooling heating heads connect to one condenser. If the condenser goes down, there is no cooling in any head. If you put in multiple heads and multiple condensers for those heads then that is even more equipment to maintain. The only way yours are still functioning is that they have been maintained. Maintenance is not free and if you don't know how to do it, you are more likely to damage the system. Look at the facts you'll see I am right. If you save anything up front in a mini split you WILL pay for it at some point in the future. More equipment = more cost. No way around that and repairs will be much more complex. Watch the video below for in depth look at how much fun you might have...