I'm confused -big time

[silfen]

I am adding a second zone heating and a/c to the upatirs of my house where the bedrooms are. The quotes I have gotten, size of the units, and options are all over the place. Each company is recommending different brands and options? Some say you should go with this/some say go with that. Let me summarize best i can the three quotes:

Quote 1:
Brand: Fedders, 60,000 btu, 80% rating, one stage - AC 12 seer 2.5 ton also fedders.
Base cost: $7k
Other: doesnt include electrical work and if I went 12 seer/2stage then add $1,895. Also includes humidifier.

Quote 2:
Brand: Tempstar, 50,000 btu, 80% rating, 2 stage - AC 14 seer 2.0 ton also Tempstar
Base cost: $8,600
Other: Doesnt inlcude running gas line and electircal, additional $450 for humidifier.

Quote 3:
Brand: Trane, 60,000 btu, 80%, variable speed - AC 14 seer, 2.0 ton unit
Base cost: $10,850
Other: electrical and gas inlcuded.

Question:
I was told that the rule of thumb is 500 square feet per ton?

What are your thoughts on equipment brands?

What about variable speed versus two stage?

What about 12 seer versus 14?

Thank you for your help!!

[dennis663]

where do you live ?, i'll do it for 7000.00 do the electric & give you the humidifier.

[Irishmist]

someone will probably be along shortly to direct you to the site rules. No discussions of $$$ allowed. Apart from that, I would recommend that you direct your questions and concerns to the contractor that will most likely be performing the work. HE is the person who's answers matter the most. We seem to repeat the following quite a lot:

Request load calculations be performed on your home.
Request AND CHECK references from other work (preferably in your immediate area)
Request license #'s and a copy of the permit application (to be sure one has been submitted.)
Request to see a copy of proof of insurance.

In respect to your specific questions:

There is no rule of thumb. There is Manual J load calculations.

Compentency of the installing contractor is as important if not more so than brand of equipment. If you have any history at all with a particular brand, and it has been a good experience, that would be the best place to start.

Depends on your particular wants and needs.

12 seer is lower in efficiency than 14 seer and the 12 will not meet the minimum standard mandate (13 seer) getting ready to kick in after January 1, 2006.

Your welcome.

[dennis663]

also, there is no rule of thumb, if a contractor says that, get him out your front door a.s.a.p.

[dennis663]

where do you live ?, i'll do it for 7000.00 & include electric.

[silfen]

sorry folks didnt know the rules about quotes. Will refraim from this. NJ

[seatonheating]

No pricing questions, Dennis, you should be ashamed of yourself.

[dennis663]

hey, just tryin to make a livin.

[coolcray3]

were at in N.J. and are we allowed to give advice on a company to call

[coolcray3]

im sorry where at in N.J.

[coolcray3]

I am presently doing that exact install.

[silfen]

north bergen