I have a few quotes from some a/c companies to put a new system in my house because my current system is 20+ years old and is working against me at this point. I have propane heat and want to get electric because of the rising gas prices. The total sq. footage is approx 2600... the two estimates are as follows. The first one for a Frigidaire system that is 13 SEER 3.5 ton 8 year warranty and $3600. The other is for a Carrier system 13 SEER 3.5 ton 10 year warranty and also $3600. I would like to know if anyone as a good idea about which way to go and would appreciate any comments or suggestions. Thank you so much!!

Since none of the HVAC pros have responded so far, I will throw in my two cents. Keep in mind that I live in AZ with our brutal summers, and things may be different in your climate. My house is about 1800 sq ft with a 4 ton Janitrol (now Goodman) 12seer HP that has been on for about 10 years. My new garage addition of about 1200 sq ft has a 12 seer 3.5 ton Goodman unit on it. Both units provide adequate heat and cooling. With your home being 2600 sq ft, I might guess that a 3.5 ton is not adequate. I have taken my share of abuse from HVAC people in my choice of Janitrol/Goodman units (the chevrolet of heat pumps). Janitrol has been referred to as Junketrol by HVAC people. While Rheem and Carrier may be the Lexus of the AC world, I had a friend with a high dollar scroll compressor on his new home spend big bucks for repairs after about 3 years (warranty notwithstanding). If Goodman is so bad, why do they have a 10 year warranty? Admittedly, I am cheap, meaning that I try to get a good value. I had a HVAC friend set the new Goodman unit and a new Mastercool Contractor Series 4800cfm cooler (including stands) on the roof of my garage addition for the grand sum of $2827. I did all the hook-up as well as the plenum/ductwork, at a cost of another $1000 or so. I had one bid of $9,000 for the whole job. There is a hefty profit margin in the HVAC trade, so it pays to do your homework. Also it is best to get a job done at temperate times of the year, when the Contractors are not busy.

Nothing wrong with Janitrol condensing units. I do have a problem with their furnaces though. Replaced too many boards and heat exchangers under warranty to recommend them. 3.5 ton will never do it. Anything under 5 tons would be pointless... Personally, with that kind of footage, I would opt for 2- 3 ton units if possible.. Zoning would be good option, too... Oh, but on your question, I would get the Carrier...