The HVAC in my home is 19 years old and running well but I'm starting to plan for it's replacement. I'd like to use the same contractor I do for my rental houses and they sell Goodman and Amana. As a first pass I'm comparing the 4 ton Goodman GSXC18 (18 seer, two stage) and the 4 ton Amana AVXC20 (20 seer, variable speed). A primary goal is a quiet condenser since it's located close to our screened porch.

Does anyone have opinions or advice about which way to go? I only have experience with more primitive single stage units so I feel slightly better about two stage though variable sounds sexy.

 

The variable speed is very sexy. More expensive and definitely much more expensive to service.
I'd imagine the Amana would be paired with a variable speed air handler and a communicating thermostat.

From the units I service.... the Amana units are usually quieter.

Seeing the Goodman around $4100 equipment only.
I'd imagine the Amana would be nearer to $5500.
As long as you have a "go to" guy..... you should be in good shape.