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Best Furnace Brands (2026)

We ranked Carrier as the best furnace brand for its strong performance, high energy efficiency, and comprehensive warranty. We also review other top brands in our guide.

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Written by
Alexis Carthan
Written by
Alexis Carthan
Updated 04/09/2026

Carrier is our pick for the best furnace brand because it delivers strong efficiency, offers a 10-year limited parts warranty, and meets Energy Star performance standards. Choosing the right furnace plays a key role in your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term costs—especially in colder climates. Our team researched leading furnace brands nationwide and compared performance, reliability, and overall value. This guide explains what to consider when shopping for a furnace so you can choose a system that keeps your home warm for years to come.

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Avg. Installation Cost:
$500–$2,000
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Avg. Repair Costs:
$100–$2,000
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Furnace Installation

Avg. Installation Cost:
$1,600–$9,700

The Top Furnace Brands

Here is our list of the best furnace brands, ranked by overall performance and customer satisfaction. Each brand offers unique benefits, including lengthy limited warranties, quiet operation, and energy-efficient design.

Pro Tip

  • When comparing furnace brands, pay close attention to how the unit modulates heat output. A modulating furnace works like a dimmer switch, which evenly replaces the amount of heat leaving the home and automatically adjusts itself to maintain the desired temperature setting, rather than simply switching on or off. Modulating furnaces deliver more consistent comfort and significantly better energy efficiency than single-stage models, although at a higher price point.

Comparing the Best Furnace Brands

Before you dive into what makes one furnace brand a better choice than another, consider key factors like our team’s rating, typical price ranges, and warranty coverage. Each brand made it on our list based on our in-depth research.

Provider Our Score Price Range Warranty
Carrier FurnaceRead Our Review
$2,000-$15,000
10-year parts-only limited, 20-year limited heat exchanger, 3-year labor limited
Lennox FurnaceRead Our Review
$3,100–$10,000
5-year parts-only (10 years for Dave Lennox Signature Collection), 20-year heat exchanger
Bryant Furnace
$3,800– $12,000
10-year standard parts limited warranty, lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty
Trane Furnace
$5,000–$15,500
10-year standard parts limited warranty, Lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty
Amana Furnace
$3,600–$11,000
10-year standard parts and unit replacement limited warranty, 20-year heat exchanger warranty

Note: Pricing is based on estimates from each brand’s online catalog, which we then used to create cost ranges and averages.


Our Reviews of the Best Furnace Brands

Below is our list of top recommendations for home furnace brands. Our methodology favors companies with higher average efficiency ratings and lower starting costs. However, these factors don’t always align, so many of our top choices may feature higher pricing. We suggest you research each provider in detail to determine which best matches your budget and heating needs.

Best Performance

Carrier Furnace

4.8
Overall Score
Avg. Price Range $2,000-$15,000
BBB Rating A-

Price Range: $2,000–$15,000

Warranty: 10-year parts-only limited, 20-year limited heat exchanger, 3-year labor limited

Peak AFUE: 98.5%

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Has high energy efficiency rates of up to 98.5% AFUE
  • Includes a 10-year limited parts warranty for registered products
  • Includes humidity control for many of its furnaces
Cons
  • Requires a salesperson to visit your home for accurate cost information
  • Is more expensive than other brands

Our Review and Insights

Carrier stands out for its energy efficiency technology. Its Infinity series furnaces achieve up to 98.5% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings, which can save you money on heating bills. We’re also impressed by Carrier’s Greenspeed Intelligence technology, which allows its furnaces to operate at multiple stages rather than simple on/off cycling, providing more consistent temperature adjustments and improved humidity control. 

However, Carrier’s premium quality comes with premium pricing, typically running 10%–15% higher than comparable models from brands like Amana or Goodman. While Carrier offers solid warranty coverage, it’s not significantly better than what other top-tier manufacturers offer. Installation can also be more complex due to Carrier’s proprietary components, which means you’ll need to work with certified Carrier dealers, potentially limiting your contractor options. Despite these considerations, we believe Carrier’s superior build quality, exceptional energy efficiency, and proven reliability make it worth the investment.

Recommended Model

Carrier’s Infinity 98 Gas Furnace offers exceptional efficiency with up to 98.5% AFUE. This Energy Star-certified unit features Carrier’s Greenspeed Intelligence technology, which precisely adjusts heating output in 1% increments for more consistent comfort with minimal energy costs. What makes the Infinity 98 particularly impressive is its variable-speed blower and modulating gas valve, which work together to maintain your desired temperature. The unit runs quietly, thanks to its insulated cabinet and variable-speed operation, making it an excellent choice for homes where the furnace is installed near living spaces.

Customer Reviews

Carrier is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). That said, it holds an A- at the time of this writing. Carrier has a star rating of 1.1 out of 5. Lower average customer ratings aren’t uncommon because most customers review a company when something goes wrong. That said, nearly all the third-party customer reviews we found for Carrier were negative. The only positive review we found related to Carrier’s water heater, rather than a furnace install.

Some customers praise the installers, though many customers express concerns with Carrier’s customer service and having to deal with corporate red tape and bureaucracy. Although many reviews were poor, we like that the provider responds to nearly every negative review in an effort to correct the issue.

“We had a water heater installed—service was fast and efficient [and] everything works.” –Gregory M. via the BBB, February 2025

“Carrier does not honor their warranty. They do not have their own warranty service. I have been trying to have a compressor replaced that is under warranty, but the distribution center told my service provider that we would have to pay $1,800 upfront and would be reimbursed by the store.” –Dario M. via the BBB, June 2023

Best Company Reputation

Lennox Furnace

4.2
Overall Score
Avg. Price Range $3,100–$10,000
BBB Rating A+

Price Range: $3,100–$10,000

Warranty: 5-year parts-only warranty (10 years for Dave Lennox Signature Collection), 20-year heat exchanger

Peak AFUE: 99%

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Has the highest AFUE rating on this list
  • Features low sound ratings for its oil furnaces
  • Is available at popular retailers such as the Home Depot
Cons
  • Requires a salesperson to visit your home for accurate cost information
  • Is more expensive than other brands

Our Review and Insights

Lennox has the highest possible AFUE rating on this list. Its Dave Lennox Signature Collection, particularly the SLP99V model, achieves an outstanding 99% AFUE rating, currently the highest efficiency rating available in residential furnaces. This exceptional performance comes from its variable-capacity technology, which precisely adjusts heat output in increments as small as 1%. The brand’s Ultimate Comfort System technology also makes its units among the quietest we’ve seen, operating at sound levels comparable to a normal conversation.

While Lennox’s technology and efficiency are impressive, its proprietary parts system typically costs 20%–30% more than standard replacement parts, and you’ll need to work with Lennox-certified technicians for repairs and maintenance. Additionally, while its warranty coverage (five-year limited parts, 20-year heat exchanger) matches industry standards, Lennox’s strict maintenance requirements for warranty validation are more demanding than those of most competitors. Despite these limitations, Lennox remains an excellent choice for homeowners who prioritize maximum energy efficiency and are willing to commit to regular maintenance.

Recommended Model

Lennox’s SLP99V Gas Furnace is a standout choice for its AFUE rating of up to 99%. What really sets this model apart is its proprietary Power Saver technology, which pairs with a variable-speed blower motor to deliver precise heating while using about two-thirds less electricity compared to standard motors. The system’s ability to make tiny adjustments to both the heating and airflow helps you get the warmth you need without the energy waste. It operates at quiet levels thanks to its Ultimate Comfort System technology, and its iComfort S40 smart thermostat compatibility lets you fine-tune your comfort from anywhere using your smartphone. Lennox backs this unit with a limited lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger and a 10-year warranty on covered components when registered. Note that models outside of the Signature collection have a shorter five-year warranty.

Customer Reviews

Lennox has an A+ BBB rating and a customer rating of 1.1 out of 5 stars. On Trustpilot, Lennox has a 1.6 out of 5-star rating. Customers praise Lennox for its technical customer service. Issues arise when customers attempt to use their warranties, though. Customers mention difficulty communicating and a lack of resolution regarding Lennox’s warranty coverage. 

“The gentleman at Lennox tech-support has major knowledge with the S40 furnace setup regarding zoning, which was a big help. Thank you!” –Jordan V. via Trustpilot, January 2026 

“In 2023, I purchased a gas furnace. It cost me over $12,000. Just recently, I had a technician inform me that the circuit board blew out. The unit is rarely used as I live in Southern California. … The part was covered under warranty, and the labor cost about $850. I called Lennox to see if they could assist me with some of the labor costs since the unit was faulty. The representative said there is nothing that they can do. Item is poorly made. I would avoid purchasing any of their products as they do not support customers.” –Shaun B. via Trustpilot, December 2025

Best Durability

Bryant Furnace

4.2
Overall Score
Avg. Price Range $3,800– $12,000
BBB Rating A+

Price Range: $3,800– $12,000

Warranty: 10-year standard parts limited warranty, lifetime heat exchanger

Peak AFUE: 98.5%

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Produces sturdy furnaces with aluminized steel
  • Offers packaged heating and cooling systems
  • Includes a lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty
Cons
  • Has proprietary components that are expensive to replace
  • Requires you to request service from an authorized dealer

Our Review and Insights

Bryant’s furnace lineup excels in delivering reliable performance at a slightly cheaper price point than its parent company, Carrier. Bryant’s Evolution series furnaces achieve up to 98.5% AFUE ratings, falling slightly below Carrier’s top models but still ranking among the most efficient systems. Additionally, Bryant incorporates much of the same core technology as Carrier, such as its Perfect Heat technology for optimal heating performance as temperature conditions change, while costing roughly 15% less. We found Bryant’s temperature consistency and humidity control capabilities nearly matched those of premium Carrier models.

However, Bryant makes compromises to achieve these lower price points. While it uses many components similar to Carrier, Bryant’s warranty coverage can be less streamlined, sometimes requiring more documentation and longer processing times for claims. We’ve also noticed that its dealer network isn’t quite as extensive as some competitors, which could limit your installation and service options depending on your location. Additionally, while Bryant’s midtier models offer excellent value, its entry-level Legacy line furnaces don’t quite match the efficiency and features of similarly priced options from brands like Lennox. That said, Bryant represents an excellent sweet spot for homeowners seeking near-premium performance without the premium price tag.

Recommended Model

Bryant’s Evolution 98 Gas Furnace delivers impressive performance with up to 98.5% AFUE. What makes this model even more appealing is its Perfect Heat Plus technology, which works in tandem with a modulating gas valve to make micro-adjustments to heating output between 40% and 100% capacity. This means you’re getting consistent warmth throughout your home while maximizing energy efficiency. The Evolution 98 also shines with its Fan On Plus technology, which lets you choose from four fan speeds for both heating and continuous fan operation. Additionally, we’re impressed by its Perfect Humidity technology that, when paired with a matching air conditioner or heat pump, helps maintain comfortable moisture levels in your home.

Customer Reviews

Bryant’s BBB page stands out with an A+ rating and 4.9 out of 5 stars. Although the company doesn’t have accreditation, customers praise its polite installation crews and competitive pricing. Some reviews mention that issues arise with some of Bryant’s products, especially its heat pumps, after a couple of years of use. The company also has a stellar customer rating on Google Reviews. Here is a sample of positive and negative reviews on Bryant systems:

“I was very satisfied with Bryant. The time response for my appointment was fast, and the tech they sent was very knowledgeable about my air conditioner and furnace. He was professional and easy to talk with. I will absolutely continue to do business with them and highly recommend them.” –Jennifer G. via the BBB, January 2026

“I had Bryant come to my home to assess and replace a gas furnace. Their project manager came and inspected the furnace and promised an estimate in a few days. After a few days, no estimate was received. I called the Bryant office about three times and was promised that the estimate was forthcoming in a day or two. Still no estimate. This is not the way a professional contractor treats its customers. Can’t count on them.” –Paul C. via Google Reviews, November 2025 

Most Experience

Trane Furnace

4.1
Overall Score
Avg. Price Range $5,000–$15,500
BBB Rating B-

Price Range: $5,000–$15,500

Warranty: 10-year standard parts limited warranty, lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty

Peak AFUE: 97.3%

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Uses speed blower motors for quieter system startup and shutdown
  • Incorporates smart-home technology for increased efficiency
  • Includes a comprehensive lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty plus 10 years for parts
Cons
  • Charges a premium for many products
  • Requires a certified Trane specialist for unit repairs or replacements

Our Review and Insights

Trane maintains a reputation for durability, rigorous manufacturing standards, and component testing. Its Premier models consistently demonstrate superior build quality, and its exclusive Vortica II blower claims to have a longer operational life than standard furnace blowers. What particularly impresses us about Trane is its attention to detail in component design. Trane manufactures most of its parts in-house rather than outsourcing, giving it outstanding quality control. 

Although Trane’s limited warranty is more robust than other brands, its emphasis on proprietary components means replacement parts can be more expensive and sometimes take longer to source than universal components. We’ve also found that its insistence on certified Trane installers to guarantee proper installation limits your contractor options and potentially increases installation costs. Despite these factors, we believe Trane remains an excellent choice for homeowners who prioritize long-term reliability and are willing to make a larger upfront investment.

Recommended Model

The Trane 96 gas furnace is an excellent choice that combines efficiency and smart technology, achieving up to 97.3% AFUE. What makes this model special is its Variable-Speed ECM motor technology, which automatically adjusts airflow in tiny increments to maintain your desired temperature while using significantly less energy than conventional furnaces. The modulating variable heating system provides excellent temperature control, running at a lower stage most of the time for efficiency and then ramping up to full power only when needed during extreme cold snaps. The 96 features Trane’s patented Vortica II blower design, which delivers consistent airflow while keeping operational noise to a minimum. When paired with Trane’s ComfortLink II control system, you get precise temperature management and smart home integration capabilities.

Customer Reviews

Trane is not BBB-accredited, has a B- rating, and has 1.02 out of 5 stars on the site. On Trustpilot, the brand holds a 2.1 out of 5-star rating. Customers’ experiences with Trane’s unit quality are mixed. Some mention having no issues with a unit, while others mention problems occurring after a couple of years. Most issues appear to happen with Trane’s scheduling and communication, and customers mention frequent delays. Note that we were unable to find customer reviews that spoke positively of the brand.

“I have had a Trane furnace XC95M for about 12 years. It recently failed, and the local technicians replaced the gas valve and a pressure switch. Evidently, there was nothing wrong with the gas valve, but they installed the new one anyway for $1,000. Apparently, only Trane or Honeywell can properly test these valves. I have tried to contact both, but never heard back from them. I consider Trane to be a totally irresponsible company that ignores the customer.” –Robert L. via Trustpilot, January 2025

“I bought a brand new home at the end of 2023, and we have had issues with the [Trane] HVAC system from the very beginning. We have spent at least $1,500 in repairs and diagnostic fees since owning the home. Now, our compressor for the system is broken (the part is covered), and the fluid for their compressor has been ruined by their faulty part. The fluid is costing us hundreds of dollars to replace. Trane has offered $200, which does not even cover the cost of the fluid they ruined.” –Gregg W. via the BBB, August 2025

Best Efficiency

Amana Furnace

4.2
Overall Score
Avg. Price Range $3,600–$11,000
BBB Rating A+

Price Range: $3,600–$11,000

Warranty: 10-year standard parts and unit replacement limited warranty, 20-year heat exchanger warranty

Peak AFUE: 98%

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Includes a 10-year limited unit replacement warranty on its high-end models
  • Adds features to improve comfort control
  • Has a user-friendly website to search for dealers and find manuals and other resources
Cons
  • Has average performance for its pricing
  • Requires product registration within 60 days of installation for unit replacement warranties to activate

Our Review and Insights

Amana combines reliable performance with excellent warranty coverage. Its AMVM97 variable-speed furnace achieves up to 98% AFUE ratings. What truly distinguishes Amana is its 10-year unit replacement limited warranty on its high-end models. If the a component ever fails, Amana replaces the entire furnace, not just the component. This level of coverage demonstrates remarkable confidence in its product quality.

However, Amana has strict requirements to activate its 10-year unit replacement warranty. You must register the furnace online within 60 days of installation or risk forfeiting the warranty. Amana’s more budget-friendly approach is also apparent in some areas. Its blower motors, while efficient, don’t quite match the ultra-quiet operation of premium brands. You might notice slightly more operational noise, particularly during startup. Additionally, we’ve observed that its dealer network isn’t as extensive as those of larger brands, such as Carrier or Trane, which could affect your options for installation and service depending on your location.

Recommended Model

The Amana AMVM97 Gas Furnace delivers impressive performance with its up to 98% AFUE rating. What makes this model appealing is its ComfortBridge technology, which continuously monitors and adjusts performance to optimize both comfort and efficiency. The variable-speed gas valve uses just the right amount of energy to maintain your desired temperature. What sets this Amana model apart is its 10-year unit replacement warranty, which is something we rarely see in the HVAC industry.

Customer Reviews

Amana has BBB accreditation, an A+ rating, and a star rating of 1.2 out of 5 through its parent company, Daikin Comfort Manufacturing LP. The company holds a 2.3 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot. Like other brands on this list, we were unable to find recent positive reviews for the brand. The negative comments from customers focus on delays in receiving parts and difficult communication when using a warranty. 

“I installed an Amana HVAC system, which started running loudly within a few months of installation. I wanted to put the unit on auto, but it doesn’t activate. I can’t seem to get help from the installer. I tried emailing Amana, and they won’t help either. I likely will go buy from another brand since the Amana 10-year warranty is useless.” –Peter P. via Trustpilot, January 2026


How Much Does a New Furnace Cost?

When investing in a new furnace, it’s essential to understand not just the upfront equipment costs but also the total investment required for a properly functioning heating system. A new furnace installation typically costs between $2,000 and $10,000, though high-efficiency models with advanced features can exceed $13,000. 

Let’s examine the key factors influencing your total cost and explore ways to make this investment more manageable.

Furnace Cost Factors

The base price of your furnace is just the starting point. Your total cost depends on several important factors that ensure optimal performance and longevity. Your home’s size is a fundamental consideration, as it determines the capacity of the furnace you’ll need. Typically, larger homes require more powerful and, consequently, more expensive units.

The furnace’s efficiency rating, measured in AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency), also significantly impacts the initial cost and long-term savings. Higher-efficiency models tend to have higher upfront prices, but they offer reduced operating costs over time.

Additionally, the installation’s complexity can affect your total investment. Factors such as ductwork modifications, electrical upgrades, and the need for specialized venting can all contribute to the final cost.

Financing Options To Consider

Many major manufacturers and HVAC contractors provide financing solutions to help manage the substantial investment required for a new furnace. These options typically include conventional choices, such as unsecured personal loans with terms ranging from two to seven years. Additionally, specialized HVAC financing programs may offer promotional periods with 0% interest for 12–18 months. Some utility companies also offer low-interest financing specifically for high-efficiency furnace installations. Furthermore, local government programs provide attractive terms for qualifying energy-efficient models.


How Do You Choose the Best Furnace Brand?

Choosing the right company to install your new furnace is just as important as selecting the furnace itself. Below are some tips that will help ensure you install the right furnace for your home the first time around.

A reputable furnace company will provide comprehensive warranty coverage that offers you true peace of mind. The best companies typically offer a 10-year parts warranty on parts and a lifetime warranty for the heat exchanger, which is essentially the heart of your furnace. However, these warranties often require annual furnace equipment maintenance to stay valid. When evaluating warranties, pay special attention to labor coverage, as this can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs over time.

The most reliable furnace companies invest significantly in their technicians’ education and certification. Look for companies whose technicians hold North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification, which is considered the gold standard in the industry. These companies typically offer ongoing training programs to ensure their teams stay updated on the latest furnace technologies and repair techniques. This is important because modern furnaces are essentially complex computers with heating elements, necessitating specialized knowledge for proper installation and maintenance.

A truly professional furnace company will do more than just sell you a furnace; its technicians will perform a detailed load calculation of your home, known as a Manual J calculation. This process considers various factors, such as your home’s square footage, insulation levels, window efficiency, and local climate patterns, to determine the exact furnace size you need. It’s concerning that some companies skip this vital step and simply replace your old furnace with one of the same size. This approach can lead to higher energy bills and inconsistent heating throughout your home.

The best furnace companies see installation as the start of your relationship. The company should provide comprehensive maintenance plans that include regular tuneups, priority service during emergencies, and discounted repair rates. A reputable company will also offer 24/7 emergency service and ensure clear communication regarding appointment times and pricing. You want a company that takes your comfort as seriously as you do.

While newer companies can offer excellent services, it can be comforting to partner with a business that has deep connections within your community. Seek out companies that have been serving your area for at least five to 10 years and have a strong local presence. Review their feedback across multiple platforms, but pay particular attention to how they address negative reviews. The best companies will respond professionally and make an effort to resolve any issues promptly.

Reputable furnace companies will provide detailed, written estimates clearly outlining all costs associated with your installation. They should be willing to explain each line item and offer reasonable financing options if needed. Be cautious of companies that pressure you with “today-only” deals or refuse to give written estimates. The best companies recognize that a furnace is a significant investment and will help you make an informed decision at your own pace.

Pro Tip

  • Consider installing a heat pump inverter alongside your furnace if you want to save on fuel costs, says Al Viera, an HVAC contractor featured on This Old House’s television series. The heat pump will provide heating and cooling during milder seasons and switch to the furnace during extremely cold weather.

Advice From a Homeowner

We talked with more than 20 HVAC customers and experts to get insights into what other homeowners should look out for when hiring an HVAC company. James Collins, a homeowner and the founder of Pure Home Gardens in Richmond, Virginia, shared that he thinks homeowners should be cautious and well-informed when getting furnace services. He recommends you start by comparing multiple quotes, as the first offer is often the highest. Scrutinize the details, including warranties, installation processes, and what is included or excluded in the set price, such as electrical cables or refrigerant lines. 

He shared that you should be wary of fake discounts, as some contractors inflate prices only to offer seemingly attractive savings. He has found that contractors prefer replacing units over repairing them to avoid potential negative feedback from malfunctioning systems. Also, he shared that you should beware of pricing tactics, such as advertising inflated prices with “discounts,” which can mislead you into thinking you’re getting a deal.


FAQs About the Best Furnace Brands

What is the average life span of a furnace?

A well-maintained furnace can last between 15 and 25 years, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, although this lifespan can vary based on several factors. The quality of your system’s initial installation is one of the most important factors, as properly installed furnaces often reach the longer end of this range. Like with a car, regular maintenance, which includes annuals tuneups and monthly filter changes, can significantly extend your furnace’s life.

Why does furnace pricing vary so much between brands?

Furnace prices can vary between brands because of differences in engineering quality, unit features, and manufacturing standards. Premium brands like Lennox and Carrier tend to cost more because they use higher-quality components and advanced technology. Additionally, higher prices can reflect better warranty coverage and more reliable customer support networks.

Are variable-speed furnaces worth the extra cost?

Variable-speed technology enables your furnace to operate at different speeds based on your home’s heating requirements, rather than just toggling between “on” and “off.” Although these systems may have a higher initial cost, they often pay for themselves through lower energy bills and enhanced home comfort. They maintain more consistent temperatures, effectively remove more humidity, provide better air filtration, and run more quietly than single-speed furnaces.

What size furnace do I need for my home?

Choosing the right furnace size for your home involves more than simply measuring a room’s square footage. A furnace that is too large will frequently cycle on and off, wasting energy and leading to faster wear and tear. On the other hand, an undersized unit may struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures. That’s why having a professional perform a Manual J calculation for sizing, which takes into account climate, insulation levels, window efficiency, and more, is essential for optimal system performance.


How We Evaluated Furnace Brands

We’re dedicated to providing thorough and impartial reviews. We accomplish this through transparent evaluations and data that support our ratings and recommendations.

Our Rating System

Our rating system for HVAC providers operates on a 100-point scale, which is then converted to 5-star ratings, based on the following seven factors:

  • System cost (20 points): We evaluate each brand’s average price range for a full-size air conditioning unit or furnace, which typically ranges from $3,100–$8,500. Companies with a lower average price receive more points.
  • Efficiency rating (20 points): We assess the company’s best energy efficiency ratings, specifically the highest Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). The higher these ratings, the better the score.
  • Sound rating (10 points): We analyze the company’s lowest sound rating measured in decibels. Companies with quieter units receive higher scores.
  • Warranty options (10 points): We give the most points to companies that offer warranties exceeding the average duration of five to 10 years. Points are deducted from companies with warranties that cover three or fewer parts.
  • Energy Star certification (10 points): Companies with Energy Star-certified products receive additional points.
  • Reputation (10 points): We review each company’s rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Points are deducted for any alerts or pending lawsuits against the company.
  • Customer service and resources (20 points): We consider the level of customer support and resources available, including user-friendly product search tools, FAQ sections, pricing guides, online manuals, and mobile apps. 

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.

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