Rheem Prestige Series HVAC Review

Rheem’s lineup is organized into three tiers – Value, Classic, and Prestige. This makes it easier for homeowners to choose between budget, mid-range, and premium options. Within the Prestige category, you’ll find the RA19 Air Conditioner, RP19 Heat Pump, and R98V Furnace, each designed with high efficiency and durability in mind. For buyers, the clarity of this product ladder is refreshing – unlike brands with overwhelming lineups, Rheem makes it fairly straightforward. Most contractors I’ve spoken with agree that Rheem has “something for everyone” without overcomplicating the selection process. However, compared to Daikin’s massive catalog or Carrier’s highly segmented models, Rheem offers less variety at the very high end.

Rheem backs its Prestige models with a 10-year limited parts warranty and a limited lifetime heat exchanger warranty for furnaces. From my own experience and homeowner feedback, Rheem’s warranty claims process is fairly smooth, though as with most HVAC brands, it depends heavily on dealer support. Many customers told me that their local Rheem-certified contractors handled warranty claims quickly, minimizing downtime. However, I’ve also come across reports where smaller dealers struggled with response times. Compared to industry leaders like Trane and Carrier, Rheem’s warranty coverage is competitive but not necessarily more generous.

Across the Prestige RA19, RP19, and R98V, Rheem demonstrates a solid focus on efficiency. The AC and heat pump are both ENERGY STAR® certified, and the furnace’s 98% AFUE puts it among the highest in its category. In my testing, the EcoNet controls were particularly helpful in optimizing efficiency – allowing systems to shift into eco modes during mild weather. Users I’ve interviewed often report long-term utility bill savings, though some point out that real-world efficiency gains depend heavily on the quality of installation and ductwork. Compared to brands like Goodman, Rheem usually positions itself as a step above in energy performance, but it doesn’t push to absolute maximum SEER numbers like Lennox or Daikin.

One of Rheem’s biggest selling points is the EcoNet® Smart Thermostat, which ties together the furnace, AC, and heat pump into a unified system. In real-world use, EcoNet allows homeowners to fine-tune humidity, fan speeds, and energy-saving modes with ease. I’ve set up several installs where customers were impressed by how clearly the app displayed performance metrics, filter reminders, and even diagnostic codes for technicians. Unlike some brands that lean heavily on third-party smart thermostats, Rheem’s EcoNet feels integrated and user-friendly. That said, I’ve noticed feedback where tech-savvy users wished for deeper smart home integrations - while Alexa and Google compatibility are there, the ecosystem isn’t as expansive as Bosch’s Home Comfort app or Daikin’s One+.

Quiet operation is one of Rheem’s strong suits. The RA19 and RP19 both use sound-dampening features such as optimized fan designs and insulated compressors. I’ve personally measured sound levels in the mid-50s dB range at low operation – quiet enough that it fades into background noise outdoors. Indoors, the variable-speed blower reduces those sudden bursts of airflow you get with single-stage systems. Customers frequently tell me they notice the difference compared to their old systems, describing it as “whisper-like” operation. Still, while quiet, Rheem doesn’t quite reach the ultra-low noise thresholds of Lennox’s top-tier variable units

In terms of pricing, Rheem positions itself in the middle-to-upper range. Prestige units are not the cheapest – you’ll pay more than Goodman or Amana – but they are typically less expensive than equivalent Lennox or Carrier systems. Homeowners often report that Rheem feels like good value: not bargain-basement, but not overpriced either. Installation costs, of course, vary by contractor, but most dealers I’ve worked with note that Rheem’s straightforward installs keep labor costs reasonable. For many families, this sweet-spot balance of price, performance, and warranty coverage makes Rheem an attractive option.

Rheem equipment has a reputation for solid build quality. The Prestige series includes a rugged composite base pan, corrosion-resistant coil designs, and Copeland™ compressors that have been industry mainstays for years. In my experience, these systems tend to hold up well over time, provided they are maintained. Contractors often highlight that Rheem’s units are easier to service than some proprietary-heavy brands, which reduces downtime. Homeowners I’ve talked to generally express satisfaction with durability, though a few noted coil issues in coastal environments where salt exposure accelerates wear – something to keep in mind depending on region.

The RA19 Air Conditioner delivers up to 19 SEER2, which is solid for a mid-to-high tier unit. In actual use, this translates to noticeably faster cooldowns compared to single-stage systems, especially when paired with Rheem’s variable-speed blower. I’ve tested this in a humid climate, and the dehumidification was strong – rooms felt drier and more comfortable without overcooling. Customers I’ve spoken with consistently mention steady comfort, even during long hot spells. While not the absolute top in efficiency like Lennox’s SL28XCV or Trane’s XV20i, it performs admirably for the price point.

The R98V Gas Furnace in the Prestige series reaches up to 98% AFUE, which is extremely high and competitive with the top-tier furnaces across the industry. In practice, this means nearly all the fuel is converted into usable heat. Homeowners who switched from older 80% furnaces reported dramatic reductions in gas bills and a more even distribution of warmth throughout the home. The RP19 Heat Pump also deserves credit – it offers strong cold-weather performance, though like most heat pumps, efficiency begins to dip in subfreezing conditions. Feedback suggests that when paired with dual-fuel setups, customers enjoy seamless transitions between heat pump and furnace operation.

Rheem doesn’t market itself as an air-purification specialist, but its systems do integrate well with IAQ add-ons. The Prestige furnace can pair with high-MERV filters and UV air treatment kits, and the EcoNet system monitors airflow restrictions to keep efficiency steady. In homes I’ve reviewed, users who added higher-grade filters reported noticeably fewer dust particles and allergens, especially in multi-pet households. However, compared to Lennox’s PureAir™ or Carrier’s Infinity® Air Purifier, Rheem doesn’t offer a built-in branded purification package. This means IAQ performance depends on compatible aftermarket solutions – effective, but less turnkey.

As someone who has worked closely with HVAC contractors, I can confirm that Rheem is generally considered straightforward to install and service. The Prestige line includes thoughtful features like quarter-turn fasteners on panels, expanded service ports, and clearly labeled wiring. Techs appreciate the logical layout, and this translates into faster service calls and lower labor costs for homeowners. I’ve heard repeatedly from installers that Rheem’s documentation and part availability are stronger than average. Still, some noted that training for EcoNet diagnostics takes time, as the smart system introduces an additional learning curve. On balance, though, Rheem remains one of the easier brands to work with in the field.