10 Best Furnace Brands | 2024 Guide
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A furnace circulates warm air to protect you and your loved ones from extreme winter temperatures. Therefore, finding the right one for your home is paramount. We pulled from our hundreds of research hours into the best HVAC and air conditioning brands to help you navigate the world of heating systems. Read on for our list of the industry’s best furnace brands.
Our top-rated furnace brand for 2024 is Lennox. We rated the company 4.9 out of 5 stars due to its energy efficiency features, and its high AFUE ratings. Lennox works closely with Energy Star to ensure their furnaces are highly efficient. We recommend Lennox if you want a top quality furnace you can trust.
Best Furnace Brands of 2024
We spent hundreds of hours researching the HVAC industry to rank brands against each other. Here are the best furnace brands according to our rating methodology:
- Lennox: Most Energy Efficient
- Carrier: Best Overall AC Units
- York: Most Experience
- Trane: Most Protection
- American Standard: Best for Extreme Climates
- Ruud: Best Basic Units
- Amana: Best Selection
- Frigidaire: Most Cost-Effective
- Goodman: Best for Maintenance
- Rheem: Best Smart Technology
Compare the Best Furnace Brands
| Company | Star Rating | Best For | Cost Range | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Most Energy Efficient | $3,000–$10,000 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Best Overall AC Units | $3,200–$15,000 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Most Experience | $4,500–$9,000 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Most Protection | $3,000–$15,500 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Best for Extreme Climates | $3,500–$11,000 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Best Basic Units | $3,000–$6,000 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Best Selection | $3,500–$11,000 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Most Cost-Effective | $3,000 to $10,000 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Best for Maintenance | $1,500–$10,000 | GET QUOTE | ||
| Best Smart Technology | $3,000–$7,000 | GET QUOTE |
Lennox
Most Energy Efficient
Price range: $3,000 to $10,000
AFUE rating: Up to 99%
What We Like
Lennox has a close partnership with ENERGY STAR to create high-efficiency furnaces and other HVAC products. The company also manufactures products with some of the highest AFUE ratings we’ve seen during research. This measurement refers to how efficiently a furnace converts energy from its fuel into warm air for your home.
Lennox offers high-end products, including a smart thermostat that integrates with popular smart-home platforms. Its oil and gas furnaces come with a 20-year heat exchanger warranty, which turns into a lifetime limited warranty upon registration.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Features some of the highest AFUE ratings
- Found at popular retailers such as The Home Depot
- Offers smart-home integration on high-end furnaces
Cons
- Varies warranty coverage by product
- Features higher prices than other brands
Recommended Model
We recommend Lennox’s SLP99V Variable-Capacity Gas Furnace for our readers. This gas furnace features a variable-speed motor, making it Lennox’s most quiet and efficient model. A variable-speed motor allows a furnace to run at a range of speeds. In addition to having an ENERGY STAR certification, this model is part of the Lennox Signature Collection, which includes an additional 10-year limited warranty on covered components with the heat exchanger warranty.
Carrier
Best Overall AC Units
Price range: $3,200 to $15,000
SEER rating: Up to 98%
What We Like
Carrier crafts some of the best well-rounded furnaces, providing a balance between performance and luxury. The company offers furnaces with single-stage, two-stage, or modulating gas valves and either fixed-, multi-, or variable-speed blowers. The furnaces are primarily fueled by natural gas but may have the ability to be converted to liquid propane.
Carrier’s Infinity series provides some of the latest HVAC technologies and smart-home features. However, the company offers its Performance series if you’re more interested in purely energy efficiency.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides a 10-year limited parts warranty for registered products
- Offers air purification and humidity control with some models
- Crafts well-rounded furnaces with high-efficiency and luxury features
Cons
- Requires a consultation for precise pricing
- Features higher prices than some competitors
Recommended Model
We recommend looking into Carrier’s Infinity 98 Gas Furnace With Greenspeed Intelligence. This unit offers the company’s highest efficiency at 98.5% AFUE. It also pairs with Carrier’s Greenspeed smart-home technology. This pairing makes a unique, modulating gas valve of this unit, managed by the control, allowing it to adapt its output to the home’s needs.
York
Most Experience
Price range: $4,500 to $9,000
AFUE rating: Up to 97.7%
What We Like
Experience is important in the home heating industry, and York features one of the longest histories on our list. The company produces high-quality heating units with high energy efficiency and low sound levels. York includes limited warranties and offers variable-speed blower motors on some of its high-end gas furnaces.
We also appreciated that York provides links to rebates its 30+ different furnaces qualify for on its website.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affinity Series received Good Housekeeping‘s Seal of Approval
- Provides furnaces that handle up to eight conditioning zones
- Offers propane capability with gas furnaces
Cons
- Warranties often only cover one or two parts
- Limits selection to gas furnaces only
Recommended Model
York’s Affinity YP9C100C16MP13C gas furnace is an eye-catching unit. This furnace features an AFUE rating of up to 97.7% and a Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval. In addition, it uses a variable, five-speed blower motor so your home receives maximum comfort control. According to York‘s website, this model is eligible for two rebates, which can add up to $1,200.
Trane
Most Protection
Price range: $3,000 to $15,500
AFUE rating: Up to 97.3%
What We Like
Trane offers quality gas and oil furnaces that reach as high as 97.3% AFUE. The company also includes models with variable-speed blowers and smart-home communication technology.
Most registered Trane furnaces include a lifetime heat exchanger warranty and a 10-year parts and labor warranty. This is more protection and peace of mind than other brands offer.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Includes a lifetime heat exchanger warranty plus 10 years for other parts and labor (upon registration)
- Offers discounted bundles that feature a furnace paired with a quality AC or heat pump
Cons
- Customer reviews mention more ongoing maintenance than other brands
- Requires ComfortLink II smart thermostat to operate certain units
Recommended Model
Based on our research, Trane’s XC95m Gas Furnace offers the best results for your dollar. This gas furnace is the company’s most efficient option with modulating heating stages. This feature means you receive optimal comfort control in your home with continual warmth, especially when using Trane’s ComfortLink II smart thermostat.
American Standard
Best for Extreme Climates
Price range: $3,500 to $11,000
AFUE rating: Up to 97%
What We Like
We recommend an American Standard furnace if you live in an area with extreme cold. The company designs its HVAC products to withstand these climates.
Its furnaces utilize heavy steel cabinets for long-term durability paired with the company’s AccuLink Communicating System. This system allows the furnace to adjust automatically to extremely cold temperatures so your home consistently gets the heat it needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers a lot of smart-home functionality with AccuLink
- Produces high-quality variable-speed models
- Designs furnaces to withstand extreme winters
Cons
- Offers less desirable warranties than other brands
- Features higher labor costs due to its certified dealer network
Recommended Model
We recommend American Standard’s Platinum 95 Gas Furnace, which is durable and efficient. This furnace model boasts an AFUE rating of up to 97.3% and a heavy steel insulated cabinet for both silent operation and unwavering durability. It’s compatible with American Standard’s AccuLink Communicating System for easier control and monitoring of your heating system.
Ruud
Best Basic Units
Price range: $3,000 to $6,000
AFUE rating: Up to 98%
What We Like
Ruud is the upscale branch of HVAC manufacturer Rheem. The company offers competitively priced, smart-home-integrated, high-efficiency units. Ruud also emphasizes sustainability in its HVAC products, including options such as solar-powered water heaters.
Ruud offers cost-effective and reliable gas furnaces. The company doesn’t provide as comprehensive a warranty as other furnace brands, but it provides a limited lifetime heat exchange warranty upon registration. Ruud also includes excellent smart-home integration features through EcoNet, and it offers financial assistance on its website with accessible links to KwikComfort Financing and ENERGY STAR rebates.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides financing options through partnership with KwikComfort
- Aims to provide more quiet furnaces using insulated cabinets
- Integrates your entire HVAC system through its Econet smart technology
Cons
- Has a limited product selection compared to other brands
- Warranty is more lacking without registration
Recommended Model
The Ruud R962V Endeavor Line Achiever Plus Gas Furnace is an excellent choice for our readers. Though this is not the company’s most efficient furnace, which is the U98MV Endeavor Line Ultra, it still provides an AFUE of 96% with more smart-home features and a variable-speed motor with extra humidity control. Ruud also claims this furnace saves you $85 in annual energy costs and includes up to $500 in rebates.
Amana
Best Selection
Price range: $3,500 to $11,000
AFUE rating: Up to 97%
What We Like
Amana (part of Goodman) offers many midrange, quality furnaces. It provides 22 different furnaces with varying AFUE ratings and features. The company’s ComfortBridge technology uses two-way communication to determine which speed or stage the furnace should run on for optimal efficiency, rather than relying solely on your thermostat.
Additionally, Amana offers a large selection of indoor air products through its sister company, CleanComfort. The selection includes high-quality air purifiers for your electronics and living spaces and humidifiers and dehumidifiers. All of these integrate with Amana’s smart-home products.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers a large selection of indoor air quality products with smart-home integration options
- Focuses on using incredibly quiet variable-speed motors
- Includes a limited lifetime replacement warranty on its high-end units
Cons
- Customer reviews mention some issues with its communication technology
- Offers average performance compared to other brands
Recommended Model
Based on our research, Amana’s ACVM97 Modulating Variable-Speed Gas Furnace is an excellent choice for our readers. It reaches up to 97% AFUE, includes the company’s ComfortBridge technology, and incorporates high-quality components such as a tubular primary heat exchanger and a quiet variable-speed circulator motor. In addition, the company claims you can receive up to $1,200 in rebates with this model.
Frigidaire
Most Cost-Effective
Price range: $3,000 to $10,000
AFUE rating: Up to 96%
What We Like
Frigidaire provides high-efficiency gas furnaces at more cost-effective rates, but the company only provides furnaces up to 96% AFUE. If you’re trying to replace your furnace or install a new one on a budget, Frigidaire provides well-balanced and reliable heating units that cost around 8% less than other brands, such as Lennox.
The company offers a fair selection of furnaces beyond ENERGY STAR efficiency requirements, which has earned them a high-efficiency designation.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides quality furnaces for cost-friendly prices
- Includes a 10-year Comfort Quality Pledge to replace the entire unit if the heat exchanger fails
- Includes EcoLink technology to improve eco-friendliness and energy efficiency
Cons
- Features a limited selection of eight models
- Customer reviews mention noisy performance
- Customer reviews mention additional hidden fees during installation
Recommended Model
We recommend Frigidaire’s FG7TE-VS or FG7TN-VS gas furnace. Both models include the company’s highest AFUE rating, and it has SmartLite technology, so the system automatically adjusts the igniter’s timing to prolong its life. The variable-speed motor better utilizes energy, providing a mix of air to minimize inconsistent temperatures and improve overall comfort. Homeowners with this high-quality furnace will have the lowest utility bills compared to other Frigidaire models.
Goodman
Best for Maintenance
Price range: $1,500 to $10,000
AFUE rating: Up to 98%
What We Like
Goodman is synonymous with home heating and cooling. It’s a sister company to Amana with a more limited but cost-effective selection. You can pair Goodman’s units with Amana’s ComfortBridge smart-home technology. Goodman sells gas furnaces and divides its 27 models into those with AFUE ratings of 90% and higher and those with ratings between 80% and 90%. Its top-of-the-line furnace is comparable to other major brands’ high-efficiency furnaces, with a 98% rating and built-in energy-saving technologies. But, it sells for less.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Manufacturers units with durability and longevity features
- Offers a massive selection of furnace models
- Offers an electronic air cleaner and humidifier add-on with furnaces
Cons
- Doesn’t have a certified installer network
- Doesn’t have as many premium features as other brands
Recommended Model
We recommend Goodman’s GMVM97 furnace. This 98% AFUE furnace provides an aluminized-steel, tubular heat exchanger integrated with the company’s intelligent heating ComfortBridge Technology. It also provides a quiet variable-speed motor.
Rheem
Best Smart Technology
Price range: $3,000 to $7,000
AFUE rating: Up to 98%
What We Like
Rheem offers many well-balanced, reasonably priced furnaces. Though the company’s offerings are fairly simple, you can connect them with EcoNet smart-home products. This allows you to fully integrate a cost-effective heating unit with your home’s heating and cooling systems to maximize comfort and savings.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers cost-friendly furnaces with solid performance
- Provides smart-home integration via EcoNet
- Connects you with local pros for each model on its website
Cons
- Lacks other customer support tools other brands offer
- Customer reviews mention that furnaces can be noisy
Recommended Model
We recommend Rheem’s R98MV Endeavor Line Prestige Series Gas Furnace. This furnace features an AFUE rating of 98% and a robust 10-year limited parts, limited lifetime heat exchanger, and conditional limited lifetime unit replacement warranty.
It also uses a modulating gas valve design that allows for operation between 40% and 100% to continuously meet your specific heating needs, while the variable-speed motor technology ensures a steady stream of perfect warmth and superior humidity control—together providing optimal comfort levels.
What to Look for in a Furnace Brand
Multiple factors determine which furnace is right for your home. Below, we summarize some of the most important things to consider when HVAC shopping.
Customer Service
Regarding furnace brands, strong customer service can make all the difference. Top brands like Carrier, Trane, and Lennox invest heavily in customer support infrastructure and training. They offer extended warranty options to provide continued peace of mind. Their websites feature DIY maintenance tips and troubleshooting guides. Many have online chat, email, and phone customer service available 24/7 in case issues arise.
Some brands, like Rheem, even have a network of local dealers that can provide hands-on assistance. Overall, reputable furnace manufacturers realize that good customer service increases brand loyalty and recommendations. They strive to make the process smooth and painless, from purchase to installation to long-term maintenance. With something as vital as home heating, customers appreciate brands that stand behind their products and put service first.
Intelligent Heating Features
Leading furnace manufacturers offer intelligent heating features for smart-home integration. Internet-connected furnaces provide energy monitoring, custom scheduling, advanced diagnostics, and over-the-air software updates. More advanced models leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and self-learning algorithms to optimize efficiency. Key smart features include If This Then That (IFTTT) integration, voice control via Alexa or Google Home, and smart sensors that adjust runtimes based on occupancy. While smart furnaces come at a premium cost, the benefits include greater control, reduced energy bills, and added peace of mind.
Noise Level
A noticeable noise level is a common complaint of furnaces. A noisy furnace can disrupt your sleep and day-to-day life and disturb your pets.
We advise checking the noise level of the furnaces that interest you. Some manufacturers create furnaces that range from 50 dB to 60 dB. We recommend looking for furnaces under 70 dB. To give you a better idea of how loud this is, check out the following breakdown from Purdue University’s Chemistry Department:
- 50 dB: A quiet conversation at home
- 60 dB: Conversations at a restaurant
- 70 dB: Running a vacuum cleaner
- 80 dB: Running a garbage disposal
Furnace Type
There are a few main options to consider when choosing the right furnace:
- Electric furnaces: As the name suggests, these run fully on electricity. Electric furnaces are simple in design, quiet in operation, and avoid needing gas lines installed. Just be aware your electricity bills will rise.
- Gas furnaces: These units use natural gas to fuel the burners that heat your home. Gas furnaces are efficient, durable, and provide warm air quickly. Within gas furnaces, you can choose from single-stage, two-stage, or variable models depending on your budget and performance needs.
- Oil furnaces: Common in areas without access to natural gas, oil furnaces use heating oil, also called fuel oil, to generate heat. While not as efficient as gas, oil furnaces provide steady, reliable warmth.
- Propane furnaces: These are a great option in rural areas lacking natural gas lines. Like gas furnaces, propane units heat using burners with propane fuel instead. Propane offers similar efficiency to natural gas.
Variable-Speed Motors
We suggest purchasing a furnace with a variable-speed motor. Though a variable-speed heating system costs more up-front, the investment is worth it because it lowers your energy bills and increases your home’s value. A variable-speed motor adjusts its speed and airflow output based on current climate conditions. So when just a little heat is needed, it runs at lower capacity. But if you crank up the thermostat, it shifts to a higher gear to rapidly warm your home. This flexibility leads to outstanding temperature control and savings on energy bills.
Warranties
Check each furnace’s warranty options. Some furnace warranties only cover certain parts of the unit, such as the heat exchanger, while others may include entire unit replacement. Each warranty may have varying lengths, too. Check the manufacturer’s website for information and see if the brand’s network of installers include a workmanship warranty.
How to Hire a Furnace Installer
We don’t recommend trying to complete a do-it-yourself (DIY) furnace installation because it’s a complicated and dangerous job. Professional furnace installation ensures a safe, quality furnace replacement. Many furnace brands have a network of certified installers. Check if the brand you’re interested in offers an authentication and credential process for HVAC installation technicians.
Here are steps to take to find a trustworthy HVAC expert:
- Check qualifications: Look for licensed technicians who keep up with manufacturer training and codes. Membership in respected HVAC organizations is a good sign.
- Confirm insurance coverage: Ask the furnace installer if they have insurance coverage. Reputable contractors will carry general liability and workers’ comp for full protection.
- Get multiple estimates: We suggest you get at least three quotes from furnace installation companies to compare pricing, performance, and additional features accurately.
- Read online reviews: Check popular online review sites such as the Better Business Bureau and Google Reviews. Companies with consistently high ratings for professionalism, quality work, and service are ideal.
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Central AC Installation Cost
Central AC unit costs range from $3,800 to $7,700.
Heat Pump Installation
Heat pump costs range from $3,700 to $11,000.
Split AC
Installation
Split AC units costs range from $3,700 to $11,000.
What to Know About Furnace Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is vital to the heating and cooling industry because it uses various ratings and metrics to determine a product’s efficiency. The two most important ones for a furnace are the AFUE rating and ENERGY STAR certification.
What Is an AFUE Rating?
The AFUE rating indicates the percentage of fuel converted into usable heat energy. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace. Modern furnaces typically range from 80% AFUE on the low end to 98.5% AFUE for top-tier condensing models. When shopping for a new furnace, prioritize the highest AFUE rating you can afford.
What Are ENERGY STAR Ratings?
Search for furnaces with ENERGY STAR certifications. This certification means the unit matches federally mandated guidelines regarding energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. For gas furnaces, ENERGY STAR requires an AFUE rating of at least 95% and an AFUE of 90% for oil furnaces.
Our Recommendation
The best furnace brand depends on your energy goals and budget. We recommend Lennox to our readers due to its incredibly high AFUE ratings, smart-home capabilities, and cutting-edge technology. However, Carrier also offers well-rounded heating options, and York builds some of the most durable and quietest furnaces.
You should get at least three quotes from different furnace brands to compare costs, warranties, and additional features. Use our tool below to request free quotes from reputable HVAC installers near you.
Furnace Brands FAQ
Which furnace lasts the longest?
Gas furnaces generally have the longest life span compared to other types of furnaces. They last around 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance and installation. Regular tune-ups, filter changes, and cleaning also help maximize this life span.
What is the best time of year to buy a furnace?
The best time to buy your furnace is in the spring when they’re not in demand. Around May, the prices will be lower, and you can splurge on a better-quality, more efficient model.
How long does it take to replace an existing furnace?
Furnace replacement typically takes one to two days to fully complete. On the first day, HVAC technicians disconnect and remove your old furnace and other components, such as ductwork and other gas or electrical connections. They’ll then install the new furnace unit and reconnect all ductwork. The second is used to complete any unfinished work and make final adjustments.
Does a new furnace increase home value?
Yes, installing a new furnace can increase a home’s value, especially if it replaces an old, inefficient model. New furnaces increase home value by roughly 5% to 10% of the total value of your home.
How We Chose the Top HVAC Brands
We researched dozens of HVAC brands to determine which ones offer the best air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and other heating, ventilation, and air conditioning products. We then crafted a rating system based on each brand’s mid-tier and high-end product offerings.
We analyzed each company’s product specifications, SEER ratings, AFUE ratings, and their best available sound rating. We also ensured that each brand offers ENERGY STAR-certified products. In addition, we closely analyzed each company’s warranties to ensure their product and labor guarantees match or exceed industry standards.
Finally, we assessed the manufacturer’s years of experience and customer reputation on popular review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. We also checked whether the brand fulfills the high-end and luxury needs of Architectural Digest readers, such as smart-home integration options, solar-powered capabilities, and home comfort control products such as air purifiers and humidity control.
