what size is best for 2000 sq ft:5 or 4 ton, why?

We want to have central heat/air installed. 4 different installers gave 4 different answers. 1 story, 2000 sq.ft, what size is best? 1 or 2 returns? So. Calif area.

Answers:
Do you want a Chevy or a Caddy? 4 tons should be fine unless maybe you llive in Death Valley. 1 return duct would probably be okay depending on your floor plan, but 2 is better. If you ever wanted to add on to the home later a 5 ton unit may save you having to upgrade your unit at that time. HOWEVER, more inportant than the tons is the SEER rating, it will have a dramatic effect on your operating costs, make the mechanical contractors bidding your job explain this to you.

Other answers:
4 ton should be sufficient 5 tons if you won the lottery
4 ton should be sufficient 5 tons if you won the lottery
The rule is 500 sq. ft. per ton which means you will need a 4 ton unit. You will also want a 14 seer or higher to save on energy cost. The higher the seer the lower energy cost. Would recommend 2 returns.
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