See above on models #'s for air handler / stat: will include below: What size zone in living area? Guessing 1500 in the area this one zone will cover. All companies were in agreement with a 2 ton system. For a 2 ton, that is some very frisky pricing.: These quotes were almost $1100 below another HVAC company. Do you think this is high? Can you give the model number of the air handler quoted? Trane 7 series (TAM7AOA24H21SB) What does the quote include and complete scope of work involved? New ductwork? Air filter cabinet? What Mdl thermostat quoted? All work included, Trane 802 stat quoted. Will look into american standard. But just quotes from two companies on trane products so far. Thanks

I would pay $100 for Trane's Perfect Fit Media filter Cabinet. It is very heavy duty compared to the Honeywell and sized to fit the furnace like a hand fits a glove. Less about the filters and more about the fit and quality of cabinet. I do believe the Trane takes a 5" filter, the HW a 4" filter. BTW, I have the Trane. Very easy to replace old filter. As far as thermostat, first choice would be HW VP Prestige IAQ, 2nd choice would be HW Mdl 8321 (same as Trane 803).. I like the IAQ because it is a true two stage thermostat, has dehumidify on demand feature for AC cooling, and can handle the control of an add on HW humidifier. Discuss carefully with your dealer. This is a nice system you are getting. The AHRI directory site is down for maintenance or else I would look up the matching AHRI number. I would ask dealer to give you the matching number and the performance/efficiency numbers for AC. Still believe you should get a quote on a Carrier Infinity. IMO

Hey Dsc, Do yourself a favor, listen to TigerDunes. This guy knows what he's talking about. Big time! He has helped me a lot on Hvac questions & issues. I must say that you are looking to purchase the right product. Trane & American Standard (Same company) make excellent Hvac equipment. I just installed a complete new system in my mothers home last month & it's supreme! If you can afford the added cost go with the Variable speed. It's incredible technology. I wouldn't even think of going with single speed after seeing the Variable work. It's a no-brainer. You do need an outside venting source for sure. Also, Yes I agree with Tiger you don't need 80K, go with the 60K & you will be good. My mothers home is 1500 sqft & we went with 60K Btu. It heats up well. Make sure you get a matched system if you go with A/c. Good luck with your purchase/install.

Let's review what you stated: The original load calculation for the house was 3 tons, but the builder allowed you to pay to oversize it. Builders are happy to take money for upgrades whether it makes sense or not. That extra room you were going to add would not have made a significant impact on the load calculation. All the neighbors with the same model have a 3 ton unit. Do you ever hear them complain their AC can't keep the house at 75 degrees on the hot summer days? You other estimates have specified a 3 ton. They can easily sell you a bigger condenser and make more money, but they are choosing not to do this. You live in Florida which suffers from high humidity. This is the primary reason you should not be over sizing the condenser. You want the indoor humidity to be 40-45%. If you over size you will never achieve this level. The statement that really bothers me is that he is telling you that if you buy a single stage then you should get a 3 ton size. His logic about the 2-stage sizing is wrong in my opinion. The primary reason for spending money on a 2-stage AC is for improved comfort. If you get the 4 ton you are wasting your money. You might as well buy a 3 ton single stage. If you really want this questioned answered then have a load calculation done. A reputable contractor should do this as part of his quote.