The two most competitive quotes (I think) that I've gotten so far are as follow:

First quote:
Goodman 3 ton 13 SEER condenser, GSX130361
Goodman 3 ton 80% furnace GMH80603
With coil, and all bells and whistles for $4235 installed.

Second quote:
Bryant 3 ton 13 SEER condenser, 113ANA036
Bryant 3 ton 80% furnace 310JAV036070
Coil and everything else for $3250 installed.

Anyone know if there are any red flags with the quotes above? Both estimates seem reasonable (and actually, the second quote is almost suspiciously low). Thanks in advance for any help.

Post back.

How is your home's insulation properties?

Give a description of typical winter and summer weather for your location?

I prefer the Bryant HVAC over the Goodman. Like you, a bit concerned over the pricing. The Bryant furnace is strictly bottom end. I would upgrade to a better model.

Post back.

IMO

1. The existing furnace and AC are both by Lennox, 3 ton condenser. Not sure of the exact furnace specs.

2. The insulation seems fine, but I'm certainly no expert. Replaced some of the windows in the house recently with energy efficient vinyl windows.

3. I'm about 4 miles from the coast, so the winters are mild (typically lows in the 40s and 50s during winter) and the summers can get pretty hot (hottest month is probably August, with typical highs in the mid to high 80s). Even when our AC did work fine, we didn't usually run it unless it was very hot (i.e., 90s).

I never thought I would complain about getting a low quote, but what I've received was lower than expected. I would be more suspicious, except that both of these contractors come very highly recommended on Yelp (for whatever that's worth).

Thanks again for your help, I appreciate it.

I would lean toward the Bryant but with a better model furnace. I can make a suggestion if interested.

I see no reason for a different Bryant AC condenser, especially taking into consideration the infrequent use. However, you did not mention the model number of the BRyant evap coil. You want the tin plated or aluminum model. Do not accept a third party brand evap coil.

And I do strongly recommend a load calc be performed at design temperatures for both heating and cooling to determine correct size of furnace and condenser.

IMO

You said, "Even when our AC did work fine, we didn't usually run it unless it was very hot (i.e., 90s)."

I'd be interested in how many days each summer do you operate your A/C? Also, how much do you use your heating system? (Number of days or $$$.)

The reason I ask is that when I lived in southern California - Del Cerro (San Diego) we operated the A/C maybe 2-4 days each summer - during a Santa Ana. We used the furnace maybe 25-40 mornings to take the chill off.

best of luck.

Tigerdunes: would greatly appreciate it if you would recommend a furnace. Is your concern with the one being offered related to its efficiency, reliability, or both?

The evaporator coil offered in the package is actually not a Bryant at all. It is an ADP model C36A142C126. Is this a major issue?

Saltidawg: really, we just use the AC when it gets unreasonably hot. I'd say on average, we'll use the AC maybe 20-25 days of the year, tops. The furnace, we use even less frequently---probably 10-15 days of the year.

Joeplumb: no load calculation by either contractor. The AC/furnace they're replacing is original with the home, so I think they just decided to go with the same specs. But you and the others have got me thinking about whether a load calculation should be done.

1. I am opposed to third party evap coils for a complete new system. Insist on a Bryant tin plated or aluminum coil, especially since you are relatively close to coast

2. Insist on a load calculation both heating and cooling with correct design temps for your climate both inside and outside. Guard against being oversized.

Other suggestions.

Ductwork evaluation especially if you have any hot/cold spots in your home

How do you filter return air? If you don't already have a whole house air filter cabinet, I would consider adding one.

I really don't care for a btm end furnace. But after reading how limited it would be used, it's probably OK. If my decision though, I would look at Bryant's Preferred 80X furnace model that has quiet and high eff ECM blower motor.

Hope this helps.

Good Luck!
IMO