Ruud vs. Bryant

[darknight]

Hi all,

I'm a H/O looking into replacing a 25 y/o Lennox furnace and A/C. House is a 55 y/o, 2500 sq. ft. ranch in the Pittsburgh area.

I've had multiple quotes with multiple manufacturers, and I have it narrowed down to two. I have about equal confidence in the contractors.

Option #1
Ruud 2-stage ECM motor UGRM10 105k BTU Furnace
Ruud 16 SEER 2-stage UARL048 48k BTU A/C
w/ 2-stage Ruud control and Aprilaire 2400 media cabinet

Option #2
Bryant Evolution 3-stage ECM motor 355CAV 120K BTU Furnace
Bryant Evolution 17 SEER 2-stage 187ANA 48K BTU A/C
w/ Evolution control and media cabinet.
This costs 18% more than Option #1

My questions are these:
Is the Evolution system worth the price jump for seemingly comparable equipment?
Will I get the most out of the Ruud system with a simple 2-stage Ruud thermostat(200 series)?

[dash]

The Evolution Control along with the motor in the Bryant furnace ,will provide superior dehumidification while in cooling.


Here in Florida,with the Infinity/Evolution, most customers report turning the indoor temperature up, 1 to 3 degrees , as the low humidity makes it feel thyat much cooler. Utility says 6-8% saving for each degree warmer that you set it.

[jpb2]

The Ruud is not gonna fully reach 16 seer in 4 ton. Niether is the Bryant. If the install is the same go with the Ruud. More simple control and a better built unit. Side by side there is no comparison. 18% is a lot for a resi job