Top HVAC Brands

Carrier’s range is broad and well-balanced across the three core residential ducted categories. In this review, I’ve focused on their most advanced options - the 59MN7 gas furnace, the 24VNA6 air conditioner, and the 25VNA4 heat pump - but the brand also offers mid-tier and entry-level models for homeowners who don’t need every high-end feature. The furnace lineup spans from basic 80% AFUE models to the nearly 99% efficient Infinity®...

Carrier offers a competitive 10-year parts limited warranty on registered equipment and a lifetime heat exchanger warranty for certain furnace models like the 59MN7. Warranty registration is simple, but it must be completed within the specified time after installation. From what I’ve seen, Carrier’s support network is reliable, but it depends heavily on the quality of the local dealer. Customers who choose established, well-reviewed Carrier dealers tend to experience faster...

Carrier’s Infinity® series leads the pack in real-world efficiency. The 59MN7 furnace reaches up to 98.5% AFUE, meaning almost all the gas burned is converted to usable heat. The 24VNA6 AC and 25VNA4 heat pump boast some of the highest SEER2 ratings in the industry. In my follow-ups with homeowners after installation, it’s common to hear about double-digit percentage drops in monthly energy bills during peak summer and winter seasons....

The Infinity® Touch Control is the centerpiece of Carrier’s smart ecosystem. It goes far beyond standard thermostat functions by offering full control over temperature, humidity, ventilation, and indoor air quality from a single interface. The menus are intuitive enough that homeowners quickly learn to set schedules, adjust fan speeds, or activate specific comfort modes without calling for help. In my own installations, the remote access via the Carrier app has...

For this review, I’ve centered on three flagship models - the S9V2-VS gas furnace, XV20i air conditioner, and XV20i heat pump - but Trane’s lineup extends across multiple performance tiers. Their gas furnace range runs from cost-effective single-stage models to ultra-efficient variable-speed designs. In central AC, they offer options from basic 14.3 SEER2 systems up to the premium XV20i with TruComfort™ modulation. The heat pump range is equally broad, with models...

Trane’s flagship systems are priced toward the premium end of the market, reflecting their build quality, efficiency, and long-term reliability. For customers prioritizing durability and stable comfort over the lowest upfront price, the investment often pays off over the lifespan of the unit. For those on tighter budgets, Trane’s single-stage ACs and furnaces still deliver respectable performance and share much of the same design DNA as their higher-end counterparts. However,...

Efficiency is one of Trane’s strengths, especially in its flagship models. The S9V2-VS furnace reaches up to 97% AFUE, while the XV20i AC and heat pump models carry SEER2 ratings at the top of the residential market. In homes where I’ve replaced older systems with these units, homeowners often see noticeable drops in seasonal energy costs within the first year. The TruComfort™ system’s ability to run at lower speeds for...

Trane’s ComfortLink™ II smart thermostat is the main interface for its high-end systems, and while it’s not quite as flashy as some competitors’ touchscreens, it’s built for stability and ease of use. The system allows you to monitor and control temperature, humidity, and even certain diagnostics remotely via the Trane Home app. In my field experience, homeowners appreciate that the interface is straightforward - you don’t need to be a...

Bryant offers a broad lineup across the main residential ducted categories, making it possible to match the system to the specific needs of the home. For this review, I focused on three of their most advanced models in each category - the 987M furnace for heating, the 191VAN AC for cooling, and the 284ANV heat pump for all-season performance. These models represent the top of the line, but Bryant also...

Bryant offers competitive warranties on its premium equipment - typically 10 years for parts and a lifetime limited warranty on heat exchangers for the 987M furnace. Warranty registration is straightforward if completed within the required time frame. From my perspective, the company is consistent in honoring claims, provided the system has been maintained according to guidelines. Customers have told me that response times for authorized service calls are generally quick,...

While lab ratings like 98.3% AFUE for the 987M and high SEER2 values for the 191VAN and 284ANV are impressive, I always focus on how these efficiencies translate into actual energy savings for homeowners. In practice, the modulating furnace burns less gas by running steadily at lower capacity, rather than cycling on and off at full fire. This reduces wasted energy and wear on the system. The variable-speed cooling and...

Bryant’s premium line integrates seamlessly with the Evolution Connex™ control, which is more than just a thermostat. It allows homeowners to fine-tune temperature, humidity, ventilation, and even air quality settings from a single interface. In my testing, the touchscreen interface is responsive and logically laid out, so you do not have to dig through endless menus to adjust settings. Wi-Fi connectivity enables remote control via the Bryant mobile app, which...

American Standard’s residential ducted catalog is organized into Platinum, Gold, and Silver tiers across furnaces, central AC, and air-source heat pumps. The Platinum 20 AC and heat pump deliver fine-grain modulation for homes that want the quietest, most stable comfort, while Gold tier units, like the S9V2 furnace, emphasize steady performance and strong efficiency without every premium extra. Silver models offer simpler staging for tighter budgets. Capacities span small homes...

Registered systems carry competitive coverage - typically 10-year limited parts and strong heat exchanger terms on the gas furnace line. Registration is quick and the process is straightforward for dealers. In practice, claim handling has been consistent when maintenance records exist and installation standards were met. Homeowners I follow up with report prompt scheduling and clear communication from established local dealers, which fits the brand’s reputation for low-friction ownership. Warranty...

Across the product line, American Standard leans heavily into efficiency ratings that compete with top brands. Their Platinum series units boast SEER2 ratings up to 21 and furnaces hitting the mid-to-upper 90s in AFUE. More importantly, the efficiency isn’t just numbers on paper – in real-world installations, the modulation and variable-speed technology actively trim utility costs. I’ve had clients share utility bill comparisons where moving from a 15-year-old single-stage AC...

American Standard’s connected backbone is the AccuLink platform paired with the Platinum-series controls. The wall control is simple to navigate, schedules are easy to set, and homeowners can adjust temperature, fan circulation, and comfort modes from the app without a learning curve. Zoning integrates cleanly, so upstairs and downstairs setpoints can be managed independently, which helps in multi-level homes where stratification is common. Diagnostics exposed through the control shorten service...

Lennox maintains a wide portfolio across the three categories we’re focusing on: furnaces, central air conditioners, and air-source heat pumps. The SLP99V Gas Furnace represents the pinnacle of their heating lineup, while the SL28XCV Air Conditioner is currently their flagship cooling system. The XP25 Heat Pump bridges the gap for homeowners seeking year-round efficiency. Beyond these, Lennox offers tiered product lines – Merit, Elite, and Signature Collection – giving options...

Warranty coverage is strong but with caveats. Lennox offers 10 years on parts and up to 20 years or lifetime on heat exchangers, depending on the furnace model. However, registration within a set timeframe is mandatory to secure these terms, and many homeowners overlook this step. Feedback from users is split: some praise responsive dealer-backed support, while others feel Lennox’s corporate line is less accessible compared to brands like Goodman...

Efficiency is where Lennox has long marketed itself, and the numbers are impressive. Across its lineup, Lennox pushes for top-tier ENERGY STAR® certification and delivers advanced features like solar-ready AC units. The XP25 Heat Pump, for instance, offers up to 23.5 SEER2 and 10.2 HSPF2, making it one of the strongest dual-purpose systems for homeowners in moderate climates. I’ve seen energy bills drop noticeably after a Lennox installation, especially when...

Lennox has heavily invested in smart home integration. The flagship iComfort® S30 Ultra Smart Thermostat is more than just a controller – it actively monitors indoor and outdoor conditions, adjusts fan speeds, and even predicts energy demand based on weather forecasts. I’ve tested it with zoning systems, and the precision it offers is impressive, especially for large multi-level homes. Users I’ve spoken with often say the app experience is smooth,...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Daikin offers a wide global catalog, but in the U.S. residential ducted market, its portfolio is streamlined to focus on high-efficiency gas furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps. The DM97MC furnace, DX9VC AC, and DZ9VC heat pump represent the top end, while the lineup also includes more affordable two-stage and single-stage models under the same family. Compared to Carrier or Lennox, Daikin’s U.S. ducted lineup is slightly smaller in scope,...

Daikin sets itself apart with longer warranties than the industry norm. Most flagship products include a 12-year parts limited warranty, and in many cases, a 12-year unit replacement warranty on major failures like compressors or heat exchangers. This puts it ahead of brands offering only 10 years. Homeowners I’ve worked with appreciate the peace of mind this provides. Warranty service is generally smooth through Daikin Comfort Pros, though in some...

Efficiency is where Daikin shines, thanks to its global expertise in inverter technology. The DX9VC and DZ9VC both leverage variable-speed compressors to achieve up to 19 SEER2 ratings, and the DM97MC furnace tops out at nearly 98% AFUE. This places Daikin firmly in the premium efficiency tier, though not at the extreme top-end of the market. In real-world installs, homeowners I’ve worked with typically report 20–30% drops in seasonal energy...

Daikin places a strong emphasis on smart controls, and it shows. The ComfortNet™ communicating system allows the DM97MC furnace, DX9VC AC, and DZ9VC heat pump to coordinate seamlessly, adjusting fan speeds, compressor stages, and airflow automatically based on real-time conditions. Homeowners can monitor performance, set schedules, and receive alerts via the Daikin One+ Smart Thermostat, which is one of the more polished control systems I’ve worked with. The Daikin One+...

Ruud’s catalog isn’t as sprawling as Carrier or Lennox, but the Endeavor Prestige Line covers the essentials: high-efficiency gas furnaces like the U98MV, smart inverter-driven air conditioners like the UA19AY, and versatile heat pumps such as the UP19AY. The brand also offers mid-tier Achiever series units for those who don’t need maximum efficiency. The selection is well-rounded enough for most residential installs, though Ruud lacks some of the ultra-niche, specialty...

Ruud offers a 10-year parts warranty and a limited lifetime heat exchanger warranty on the U98MV, along with a conditional unit replacement guarantee if registered promptly. Customers I’ve spoken with note that the warranty coverage is competitive, though not as aggressively extended as some premium brands like Amana (with its lifetime unit replacement promise). The actual support experience tends to vary by local dealer—something true for nearly all HVAC brands....

Between the UA19AY’s 19 SEER2 rating, the UP19AY’s inverter-driven heat pump, and the U98MV’s 98% AFUE, Ruud checks nearly every box for energy-conscious homeowners. EcoNet® plays a role here too, automatically adjusting output levels to avoid wasteful overcooling or overheating. Customers I’ve spoken with often highlight reduced utility bills within the first year of use compared to their previous mid-efficiency systems. Still, while Ruud delivers excellent efficiency, it doesn’t chase...

Ruud’s EcoNet® Smart Thermostat is the centerpiece of its connected ecosystem, linking the U98MV furnace, UA19AY air conditioner, and UP19AY heat pump into a unified platform. Homeowners can control settings remotely via smartphone, monitor energy use, and even receive service alerts when the system senses a fault. The diagnostic codes are particularly handy for technicians, cutting down troubleshooting time during service calls. Compared to competitors, EcoNet doesn’t feel as slick...

Heil organizes its lineup into two tiers: the premium Ion series and the more value-oriented Performance series. The Ion 98 furnace, Ion 21 AC, and Ion HVH8 heat pump are the flagships, offering full variable-capacity and smart controls. The Performance line covers single-stage and two-stage systems for buyers who want affordability without advanced features. Compared to Carrier, Heil’s catalog is smaller and less segmented, which can be a benefit for...

Heil’s No Hassle Replacement™ warranty is one of its strongest selling points. On premium Ion series models, if a major component like the compressor or heat exchanger fails within the first 10 years, Heil will replace the entire unit—not just the part. This goes above and beyond many competitors, who only cover part replacement. In addition, there’s the standard 10-year limited parts warranty when the system is registered. From homeowners...

Energy efficiency is a standout feature of Heil’s Ion lineup. With the Ion 21 AC pushing 20.5 SEER2, the HVH8 heat pump reaching 19 SEER2 and 11 HSPF2, and the G97CMN furnace hitting 98% AFUE, the numbers speak for themselves. These ratings place Heil comfortably in the premium efficiency tier, on par with Carrier Infinity systems. In real-world installs, homeowners upgrading from 12–14 SEER legacy units to Ion 21 or...

One of Heil’s biggest strengths is its Ion™ System Control, a smart thermostat and control hub that ties the G97CMN furnace, Ion 21 AC, and HVH8 heat pump into one communicating system. With Wi-Fi connectivity, zoning capability, and a modern touchscreen interface, the Ion Control provides homeowners with an easy way to adjust comfort settings and track performance. What sets it apart is full integration with the equipment’s variable-capacity features—the...

Amana’s lineup is organized into good-better-best tiers, but it doesn’t overwhelm with endless variations. At the top, the AMVM97 furnace, ALXT7C AC, and AZV7S heat pump represent premium efficiency and comfort. Below them, Amana offers two-stage and single-stage systems that hit lower efficiency targets but maintain strong reliability. Compared to Daikin’s massive catalog, Amana’s portfolio is simpler and more focused. That clarity is a strength for homeowners who want to...

Amana sets itself apart with one of the most generous warranty packages in the industry. Flagship products like the GSXC7/ALXT7C and AMVM97 come with a lifetime unit replacement warranty—if the compressor or heat exchanger fails, Amana replaces the entire unit, not just the part. On top of that, there’s a 10-year limited parts warranty for registered equipment. In practice, this warranty has been a major confidence booster for homeowners deciding...

Amana’s lineup is competitive in efficiency, though it doesn’t always push the very top limits like Daikin or Lennox. The AMVM97 furnace’s 98% AFUE puts it in elite company, while the ALXT7C AC and AZV7S Heat Pump offer 17.2 SEER2 and 16.2 SEER2, respectively, which qualifies them for rebates in many states. The key here is ComfortBridge™ technology, which is embedded in the furnace control board. Instead of requiring a...

Amana integrates ComfortBridge™ technology directly into the AMVM97 furnace and compatible air handlers. Instead of requiring a specialized proprietary thermostat, the intelligence is built into the control board itself. This allows the system to continuously analyze performance data—fan speed, compressor demand, indoor/outdoor temperatures—and make automatic adjustments for comfort and efficiency. For homeowners, it means the equipment is always “tuning itself” without constant fiddling. Homeowners I’ve spoken with appreciate that they...