Well I assume load calcs have been performed and given to you in writing.

Nat gas availability?

While AmStd is a great brand, you have been quoted low end equipment in their product line.

IMO

Thanks for replying so quickly.

Yes, I figured this is all low end type of stuff. We do have nat gas, yes. It's a city subdivision.

Does nat gas availability change anything?

Also, do you think it's worth it to upgrade to higher end equipment?

You can certainly do better.

I can make a few suggestions for improvement if you like.

Any model number for the evap coil on 1 1/2 ton system?

As far as worth it, yes it is worth it. Nice new home, good building and insulation qualities. I assume you didn't build to have to move in a few years.

IMO

tiger - yes, please thank you for your time. (amazon gift card is on me :) )

no, we don't plan on moving for the foreseeable future.

any suggestions are hugely appreciated!

Glad to help. I live in SC also so know the area/climate pretty good.

It would be helpful to know the evap coil model number if you have it.

IMO

Awesome, thanks.

Yes, working on obtaining the evap coil #.

Logastellus

OK. Here goes.

Trane and sister company AmStd have a weak link in their product line as far as small furnaces. There really is only one good choice for your situation. Of course, I will assume you are sized correctly. Yes, that's a big deal. I will give you a good and better choice on both downstairs system and upstairs system. Neither are what I would call top of line but certainly better than what you were quoted.

Downstairs
AUH1B040A9H21B 2 AmStd furnace
Allegiance 13 4A7A3018G1 1 1/2 ton AC condenser

AUH1B040A9H21B 2 AmStd furnace
Allegiance 15 4A7A5018E1 1 1/2 ton AC condenser

Upstairs

GAM5A0B30M21 air handler
Heritage 13 2 1/2 ton HP

TAM7A0B30H21 air handler
Heritage 15 2 1/2 ton HP

Thermostat HW VP Mdl #8321 for any of these systems
Pleated filter media cabinet for each system

Dealer's selections
Type Manufacturer Model
AC Trane 4TTB3018E1000
Furnace AmericanStandard AUH1B040A9241A
Heat pump AmericanStandard 4TWB3030B1
Air handler AmericanStandard GAF2A0A30S21SA

Did not hear back on evap coil Mdl number but believe it to be 4TXCB series.

As far as systems quoted, I like the first furnace system I gave you best because it has more cooling BTUs. On the upstairs system, either are fine but the second has superior performance/efficiency numbers.

I would like to see your load calcs. Obviously you have superior building and insulation qualities for such a large home with relatively small HVAC systems. Has dealer even suggested the need for a fresh air exchange to your home? If not, I would ask.

How many returns does dealer plan for each floor?

Let me know if you have any questions.

IMO

This post was edited by tigerdunes on Fri, Aug 30, 13 at 8:18

tigerdunes - thank you very much for such a detailed analysis!

I'll go over these over the weekend, to see if I can comprehend all the options.

I can't figure out how to send you a private message.. Does this forum even allow such things?

Also, while I'm waiting for the manual J results, does this make sense at a high level? a 2.5 ton system for upstairs and 1.5 ton for downstairs?

High level? You are speaking of altitude? Be specific on location.

What size is each zone? 4 tons of cooling for 3700 sq ft. Pretty good. Good insulation qualities pay off every day.

I don't give out my email address. But you can put yours in your profile and I can contact you if you like. Just notify me if you do this.

Post back.

IMO

no, I meant "high level" as in, at a glance.

yes, I put the email address into my profile and clicked "allow to contact." Please do.

Thanks!

If you are speaking of high level as far as load and insulation properties, then yes absolutely. Jealous.

I would ask what specific plans are there for your attic? Any frog-that is "finished room over attached carport/garage"?

Just sent you en email. You can remove your address now if you want to.

Would like to see your load calcs for both cooling and heating broken out for each zone. You should be interested in this as well.

IMO