For your area, I think those are good systems, and the price quoted seems reasonable considering they are top of the line systems.

Ryan,

Thank you for the reply.

Will I lose any comfort or efficiency by selecting the Performance series? I know it is less $ than the Infinity series.

You can still keep the Infinity interface with the Performance series outdoor units, so it will still do an adequate job with dehumidification. However, with the 2-stage units, they can run in low stage for longer periods of time, helping even temperatures and reduce humidity. In my opinion, if you're going for a higher end system with the Infinity controls, keep the Infinity outdoor units if they are a feasible option in your budget.

It may be worth your while to get another estimate or two, if nothing else for comparison.

I tend to recommend a more simple system myself, but your price for 2 Infinity systems installed is attractive, and for your location, I think you'd benefit from the 2-stage operation. I assume the dealer sized both units properly (that's step 1 to efficiency/comfort). The fact that they recommended an additional return is a good sign that they understand the need for adequate return air for these systems to work well.

I assume you are aware, but the 3 ton system qualifies for the energy tax credit ($1500). That would bring your effective net cost to $13,500.

Ryan,

I have gone out to get a few more estimates and all of them were higher with the same setup.

The dealer measured the house and windows and came back to about the same size. He also told me the tax credit on the 3 ton system.

Did I leave anything on the table? One Lennox dealer recommended moving the units closer to the attic because he thought the lines from outside were long from the current location. Then I spoke with the Carrier dealer and he thought they are fine.

Thank you again for the reply.

If you're comfortable with the dealer, and the dealer has a strong, well-backed reputation, then I think you'd be very happy with those systems. Do you have experience with this company, or do you know others who do? The dealer is the deciding factor. You want one whom you're comfortable with and who will be there down the road.

The dealer did an installation of a 4 Ton Infinity on the same street a few months back. I went to visit the home and saw the unit which is pretty big. The owner has used the dealer a few times and is satisfied with the work.

Ryan, I get one more question on the furnace for the 5 Ton system. Should I select a Carrier 58MVB100-F-1-20, 93.7% AFUE? It will cost additional $1,000.00. My average monthly gas bill for the winter(Nov to Feb)has been around $200.00 for the past few years.

I think the 58MVB is being phased out in favor of the 58MVC, so if you did get the upgrade, I'd request the 58MVC for the same cost.

It would be up to you, but given your location is Texas, I thought the 80% furnaces didn't seem out of line. For most other areas, I would certainly recommend a 90+ furnace.

Others here will probably give you their thoughts on the payback. I don't have gas in my home, so not sure if $200 is reasonable for your size home with 2 furnaces and appliances or not.

Ryan,

I asked the dealer to order 58MVC with the same price. Hope he will do it.

I thought I am done with the questions. However, I get one more question for you. The dealer told me that the systems come with 1" filer and I can request for the 4" filter. He also recommend the Honeywell Electronic Air Cleaner F300E with a cost of $800 per system. What do you think?