Hello, this is my first time here but there's so much good information, and I was hoping that someone could give me a bit of advice.

We are replacing our 21-year old gas furnace that has rust, holes, and a crack. Our house is small, around 1350 s.f., old but fairly well insulated, and has newer windows.

The heat load analysis has determined that we need around 57,000 BTUs. We've had quotes for models ranging from 60,000 - 80,000 BTUs. They are all 95% - 96%, to qualify for the tax credit.

Here are the quotes:

Amana AMH95 - single stage - 70,000 BTU - $2500

Amana AMV95 - 2-stage, variable speed - 70,000 BTU - $3200

American Standard Freedom 95 - single stage - 60,000 BTU - $2279

American Standard Freedom 95 - 2-stage variable speed - 60,000 BTU - $2589

Carrier Comfort 95 - single stage - 80,000 BTU - $2860

Goodman GMH95 - 2-stage, variable-speed - 70,000 BTU - $2580

Trane XR95 - single stage - 60,000 BTU - $2800

Trane XV95 - 2-stage, variable-speed - 60,000 BTU - $3600

Which of these models are good or bad? I think I understand the advantages of the 2-stage, variable-speed models - quieter, more efficient. Do you think it's worth the increased cost? Especially with the Trane - it seems to have a good reputation, but is by far the most expensive. And what about the BTUs - is 60,000 too few at a 95% efficiency?

If you need any more info to give a good evaluation, please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks!