There are a lot of good brands on the market, but it's the installer that's
much more important. I prefer Rheem/Ruud, but I've seen companies do bad
installs on them also. Check the details of any warranty. I'm not familiar
with Amana's, but if it says something like "must be authorized Amana
dealer", then you're locked in.
Heat loss/gain calculations are good, but the new equipment's size and
corresponding CFM must match your existing duct work. If your house has had
new windows and insulation since the existing equipment was installed, a
heat loss/gain calculation should show that you need smaller equipment. If
anyone comes back to you and says they did the calculations and you need
larger equipment, show them the door. They are just trying to exploit the
common consumer misconception that "bigger is better".

"komobu" wrote in message
oups.com...
Hi;

I am being quoted the following to replace my AC and Furnace in Va.
Amana 3 Ton
96% VARIABLE SPEED GAS FURNACE 14.5 SEER AIR CONDITIONING UNIT PLUS
COIL, PAD FOR OUTDOOR A/C WITH DISCONNECT BOX AND NEW DIGITAL
THERMOSTAT.
LIFETIME HEAT EXCHANGER UNIT REPLACEMENT
LIFETIME COMPRESSOR
10 YEARS PARTS AND 10 YEARS LABOR
$9622
I am being quoted an additional 600 dollars for dual fuel for natural
gas backup.

The firm says that Amana's waranty is the best in the industry. The
estimater went out and looked at the house but did not conduct a Manual
J or a Manual D. He says the old unit was a 3 ton and the new 3 tons
are much more efficient than the old ones. So it will be just fine.

Is this bid inline with other products? I am trying to call different
firms but each one carries a different brand unit so it is hard for me
to compare.

Spending 10K is a lot of money and I want the best value I can get.
Please provide name brands with good reps.

Thanks
Pat