Choosing the right furnace for your home is crucial for ensuring efficient heating and long-term savings. This guide will walk you through the best furnace brands on the market, discussing factors like cost, efficiency, and longevity that can influence your decision.
Key Takeaways
- Cost Range: $2,100 to $10,000 for total installed cost.
- Top Brands: Brands such as Amana, Carrier, and Lennox lead in quality and efficiency.
- Efficiency: Look for furnaces with high AFUE ratings for better energy savings.
- Longevity: Quality brands offer furnaces that can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Best Furnace Brands
When selecting a furnace, it’s important to consider both the upfront installation costs and the long-term benefits of energy efficiency and durability. Here are some of the top furnace brands along with their average installed costs and efficiency ratings.
Top Furnace Brands
| Brand | Average Installed Cost | Efficiency Rating (AFUE) |
|---|---|---|
| Amana | $2,100 – $8,200 | 80.0% – 98.0% |
| American Standard | $2,700 – $9,000 | 80.0% – 97.3% |
| Bryant | $2,300 – $7,000 | 80.0% – 98.3% |
| Carrier | $2,400 – $8,000 | 80.0% – 98.5% |
| Goodman | $2,100 – $6,300 | 80.0% – 98.0% |
| Heil | $2,400 – $6,400 | 80.0% – 98.0% |
| Lennox | $3,000 – $9,500 | 80.0% – 99.0% |
| Rheem / Ruud | $2,500 – $7,800 | 80.0% – 98.0% |
| York | $2,300 – $10,000 | 80.0% – 98.0% |
What is the Best Gas Furnace Brand?
When considering the best brand for a gas furnace, factors such as reliability, energy efficiency, and customer service must be weighed. Brands like Lennox and Carrier often top the list due to their advanced technology and high AFUE ratings.
Furnace Brand Factors
The best furnace for your home should align with your specific heating needs and budget. Consider these factors:
- Efficiency: Higher AFUE ratings mean more energy saved.
- Price: Balance upfront cost against long-term savings.
- Warranty: Look for comprehensive coverage to protect your investment.
- Features: Variable speed blowers and smart home compatibility can enhance comfort and efficiency.
How to Save Money on a Brand-Name Furnace
To get the best value, consider these tips:
- Choose the Right Size: An oversized or undersized furnace can lead to inefficiency and increased costs.
- Seek Rebates: Many energy-efficient furnaces come with federal or state rebates.
- Compare Quotes: Get multiple estimates to ensure competitive pricing.
Furnace Brand FAQs
Does Buying a New Furnace Increase Home Value?
Yes, especially if it significantly improves energy efficiency. This can be a strong selling point in real estate transactions.
Which Furnaces Last the Longest?
Brands like Lennox and Carrier are renowned for their durability, often lasting 20 years with proper maintenance.
What Size Furnace Do I Need?
The size depends on your home’s square footage, climate, and specific heating requirements.
When is the Best Time of Year to Buy a Furnace?
Late spring or early fall are ideal, as demand is lower and discounts are more likely.
Getting Estimates from Furnace Installers
Questions to Ask Furnace Installation Companies
When interviewing installers, ask about:
- Their experience with your chosen brand.
- The details of the warranty and what it covers.
- Any ongoing maintenance plans or services they offer.
By understanding the range of options and the factors affecting furnace performance and cost, you can make an informed decision that ensures comfort and efficiency for years to come. For further details on specific brands, check out our detailed guides, such as the Carrier Furnace Prices and Lennox Furnace Prices.
Detailed Reviews of Specific Furnace Brands
Understanding the unique features and offerings of each furnace brand can further help in making an informed decision. Below are detailed reviews of each major brand mentioned in the table above.
Amana Furnaces
Amana furnaces are known for their affordability and reliability. The brand offers high-efficiency models with AFUE ratings up to 98%, making them a great choice for those looking to reduce their energy bills. Amana’s furnaces come with a comprehensive warranty that includes a lifetime unit replacement warranty for certain models.
American Standard Furnaces
American Standard is renowned for its durable and efficient furnaces. With efficiency ratings as high as 97.3% AFUE, these units can provide significant energy savings. The brand is also noted for its excellent customer support and robust warranties, which provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Bryant Furnaces
Bryant offers a range of furnaces that balance cost and efficiency, with models featuring up to 98.3% AFUE. The brand is praised for its quiet operation and consistent performance. Bryant’s Perfect Heat technology optimizes furnace operation for enhanced comfort and efficiency.
Carrier Furnaces
Carrier furnaces are at the forefront of technology, offering features such as Greenspeed Intelligence, which adapts heating output to the needs of the home for precise comfort and efficiency. With AFUE ratings up to 98.5%, Carrier furnaces are among the most energy-efficient on the market.
Goodman Furnaces
Goodman provides some of the most cost-effective heating solutions, with prices starting at the lower end of the spectrum without sacrificing quality. Goodman furnaces are known for their durability and are backed by a strong warranty, making them a popular choice among homeowners.
Heil Furnaces
Heil furnaces come with advanced features such as the Observer Communicating System, which enhances system efficiency and performance. Heil also offers a no-hassle replacement warranty, ensuring that major components are covered in case of failure.
Lennox Furnaces
Lennox is synonymous with high-efficiency and top-quality heating systems. Their furnaces can reach up to 99% AFUE, the highest efficiency rating available. Lennox furnaces are equipped with features like variable speed motors and Precise Comfort technology, which allow the furnace to fine-tune adjustments to the temperature in your home.
Rheem / Ruud Furnaces
Rheem and Ruud are known for their rugged reliability and solid efficiency ratings. They offer both budget-friendly and premium models, catering to a wide range of consumer needs. Their furnaces are also equipped with modern diagnostics to simplify maintenance and troubleshooting.
York Furnaces
York furnaces are well-regarded for their innovative design and reliability. They offer high-efficiency models with up to 98% AFUE, and their units are designed for quiet operation, making them a good choice for residential heating needs.
Ensuring Warmth and Efficiency with the Right Furnace
Choosing the right furnace involves balancing cost, efficiency, and the specific needs of your home. By considering the leading brands and understanding their unique benefits, you can select a furnace that will provide reliable and efficient heating for many years. For homeowners interested in exploring more about efficient heating solutions, consider reading more about Gas Furnace Prices for a comprehensive breakdown of options and costs.
