Furnaces are the centerpiece of most modern home heating systems, directing heat through ventilation systems to keep you warm even on the coldest winter days. The best furnace brands will provide reliable performance, help you save on energy bills, and fit comfortably into your budget.
The experts at Today’s Homeowner compiled this guide to help you navigate the sea of choices. This guide outlines the nine best furnace brands based on cost, efficiency, company reputation, and more. Use the tool below to get a quote from one of your area’s top HVAC installers.
- Lennox is our top pick and highest recommendation for its impressive reputation
- Bryant is a close second for a natural gas furnace with a 10-year warranty
- You should generally expect to pay around $1,500 and $6,500 for your new furnace
What Are the Best Furnace Brands?
Here are our picks for the top nine furnace brands offering products today:
How Do the Top Furnace Brands Compare?
Before you commit to one furnace brand over another, it’s essential to consider each aspect of the brand’s offerings. To help you easily compare the top furnace brands, we created an easy-to-follow chart that outlines crucial differences, including efficiency ratings, installed price ranges, and sound ratings of the top-rated brands.
Cost data include the unit, labor, and demolition, if applicable. All cost data in this article were gathered from RS Means construction materials and labor database and bids from top contractors.
Lennox
5.0
Our Rating
Lennox has plenty to offer as one of the longest-operating American furnace companies. Its furnace lineup includes models with the highest energy efficiency furnace units available on the market, complete with whisper-quiet operation and multiple price points.
- Efficiency ratings: Up to 98.7% Annualized Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)
- Sound ratings: Up to 76 decibels A (dBA)
- Price range: $2,800 to $8,300
Lennox is a recognized name in the heating and air conditioning industry and has over 125 years of experience. HVAC contractors and homeowners alike know Lennox for its reliability and stellar reputation.
The company offers a wide range of furnaces, including oil, gas, and electric. The company splits its furnace lineup into three collections:
- Merit: The company’s introductory product line
- Elite: The company’s next-level family that delivers increased efficiency
- Dave Lennox Signature Collection: The company’s premier collection offering the highest efficiency and performance
While every HVAC system in its lineup boasts solid efficiency ratings, Lennox Signature Collection models offer impressive efficiency ratings of up to 98.7 AFUE, one of the highest on the market. Additionally, the SL297NV has the lowest emissions of any gas furnace brand on the market today.
Some special features include SilentComfort Technology, which keeps the furnaces exceptionally quiet, and the Lennox iComfort smart thermostats, which are compatible with all Lennox furnaces.
Despite its tiered lineup to accommodate a range of budgets, Lennox furnace prices are quite steep, particularly for the company’s highly efficient models. But you can opt for a less efficient model, such as the ML196E gas furnace in the Merit series, for a more budget-friendly pick.
Bryant
4.9
Our Rating
Operating under the umbrella of Carrier Global Corporation, Bryant produces a durable lineup of HVAC products. Bryant is often viewed as the “budget” sister brand of Carrier, making it a solid, affordable pick for those who appreciate Carrier products aside from the high price tag.
- Efficiency Ratings: Up to 98.3% AFUE
- Sound Ratings: Up to 76 dBA
- Price Range: $2,300 to $9,500
Bryant’s lineup of gas furnaces has plenty to offer, with 15 furnace models delivering up to 98.3 AFUE (comparable to more expensive brands like Carrier) and boasting Energy Star furnace certification. Bryant furnaces are available in three series:
- Legacy: Budget-friendly models that deliver both durability and affordability
- Preferred: Offers energy-efficient features at a lower price
- Evolution: Top-of-the-line models with the latest innovative technology
Bryant’s natural gas furnaces are offered in all three series and feature single-stage, two-stage, and modulating gas valves. Its oil furnaces are available in the Preferred and Legacy lines and feature Beckett or Riello burners.
Dozens of Bryant HVAC reviews from customers mention the dependability, low prices, and efficiency, making Bryant an excellent choice for your home’s heating needs.
Most Bryant products come with a 10-year limited warranty if you register your unit within 90 days. If you don’t register, the warranty lasts only five years. The 10-year-warranty seems short for the price of its Evolution line, which can rival more expensive furnace brands.
Goodman
5.0
Our Rating
Goodman is part of Daikin, a multinational company with nearly 100 years in the HVAC industry. Daikin has three sister HVAC brands — Daikin, Goodman, and Amana. The company offers an extensive range of gas furnaces with high efficiencies — up to 98% AFUE. Given Goodman’s specs, performance, and warranties, you’d expect them to cost more, but they are quite affordable.
- Efficiency Ratings: Up to 98%
- Sound Ratings: Up to 73 dBA
- Price Range: $2,000 – $6,000
Goodman is the best value brand on the market. It has 10 models in its lineup, which is less than more expensive brands like Carrier. But, there are still enough options to allow homeowners to choose the best model for their home and budget.
Its furnaces are available in efficiencies up to 98% AFUE and 120,000 BTU heating capacities, which is on par with all major brands. All Goodman Furnaces feature ComfortBridge technology, which ensures each unit operates at peak efficiency. Additionally, Goodman has two models that meet California’s low-nitrogen oxide (NOx) requirements.
While some furnace brands feature similar efficiencies, sound levels, and other features, Goodman furnaces give you the best bang for your buck at the same performance levels.
Although Goodman is a solid furnace choice for your home, its furnaces have a shorter lifespan (on average, 12–20 years). This is less than more durable brands like Lennox, Trane, and Carrier, which tend to last 20+ years. But the trade-off of using components with a shorter lifespan is its lower initial cost. With regular maintenance and care, your Goodman furnace may last longer.
Rheem
4.9
Our Rating
Founded in 1930, Rheem has nearly a century of experience in the industry. Although best known for other products, like Rheem AC units, Rheem’s furnaces are high-quality, durable, and feature solid warranties.
- Efficiency Ratings: Up to 98% AFUE
- Sound Ratings: Up to 76 dBA
- Price Range: $2,500 to $9,000
With nearly a century of experience, Rheem offers extensive heating and cooling products, including 10 gas and five oil furnaces. Compared to other furnace brands like Trane, Lennox, and Carrier, Rheem has many more furnace models available to fit almost all homeowners’ budgets, sizes, and efficiency requirements.
Rheem offers three furnace series:
- Classic/Classic Plus: Base-level models with lower efficiencies, shorter warranties on heat exchanges (20 years versus lifetime), but the most affordable.
- Prestige: Mid-tier models with better efficiencies and performance.
- Endeavor: Most efficient, dependable, and highest-priced models with the latest technology.
All Rheem furnaces feature the EcoNet monitoring system, which allows homeowners to monitor their furnace performance and receive alerts via a mobile app.
Additionally, Rheem offers an excellent furnace for California residents, as its Classic Plus Series gas furnace produces and releases low levels of nitrogen oxide as it works.
Though several Rheem furnaces feature lifetime warranties on heat exchangers, some models feature only 20-year warranties. So, be mindful of the warranty options as you choose your model.
Carrier
4.9
Our Rating
Carrier is another well-known name in the HVAC industry, with a founder credited for creating the modern air conditioner. The company offers innovative heating and cooling solutions, including many with excellent efficiency ratings.
- Efficiency Ratings: Up to 98.5% AFUE
- Sound Ratings: Up to 73 dBA
- Price Range: $2,800 to $8,300
Carrier’s furnace products are long-lasting and feature strong warranties, and the company has dozens of satisfied customer reviews. As an industry-leading brand, Carrier offers something for nearly every budget within its three series:
- Comfort Series: Most affordable, lowest efficiency, and lower warranty terms (20 years for major components).
- Performance Series: Better performance and warranty terms (lifetime for major components) but more expensive.
- Infinity Series: Most expensive, but offers the latest technology, best efficiencies, and the same warranty as the Performance Series.
Carrier furnaces can be either gas or propane-burning and feature cutting-edge technology for easy use. Its Infinity Series gas furnaces use Greenspeed tech to pair its adaptable-speed blower motor technology with Infinity controls for easier use, greater efficiency, and better comfort.
Carrier has the best warranty terms compared to other furnace brands — 10 years for parts for all furnaces, 20 years for major components for the Comfort Series, and an outstanding Lifetime warranty for major components for the Performance and Infinity Series. However, you must register your Carrier furnace to qualify for the warranties.
Although Carrier furnaces are an excellent choice for many homeowners, Carrier furnace costs can be pricey when it comes to purchase and repair. Up-front costs can be steep, depending on the model (particularly the most energy-efficient furnaces). According to several consumer reviews, repair costs are also typically high, as parts aren’t widely available.
Amana
4.7
Our Rating
Amana, another familiar brand in the HVAC industry, is owned by Goodman. Amana has its own brand lineup of furnaces, heat pumps, and air conditioners to meet your home’s heating and cooling needs.
- Efficiency Ratings: Up to 98% AFUE
- Sound Ratings: Up to 77 dBA
- Price Range: $2,100 to $7,800
Amana’s furnace lineup has the best efficiencies compared to other brands. Unlike many HVAC companies, Amana lists its units from most to least efficient rather than separating them out into series or tiers.
Its top model, the AMVM97, is a high-efficiency modulating variable speed gas furnace with 98% AFUE and ComfortBridge smart technology. Other top-of-the-line systems feature ComfortNet Communications compatibility, which allows homeowners much more control than a third-party smart thermostat — outdoor and indoor temperature monitoring, humidity control, fan speed settings, service reminders, and advanced diagnostics, which helps streamline repairs and maintenance.
While Amana’s products rival the quality of industry-leading brands, they come at affordable prices. The brand offers several other products, including heat pumps and air conditioners, to ensure your home remains comfortable throughout the seasons.
Although Amana produces a reliable furnace and is an affordable choice for many homeowners, they can be somewhat noisy in operation — especially the base models. Noise levels vary based on the model, but some can reach 77 decibels while running, which is noisier than comparable models. (For reference, a passenger car at 65 mph at 25 ft measures 77 dB.)
York
4.7
Our Rating
York is a well-known brand in the HVAC industry. The company manufactures top-rated air conditioners, heat pumps, packaged rooftop units, and residential gas furnaces. York is known for its great warranties, leading technology, and ease of doing maintenance.
- Efficiency Ratings: Up to 98%
- Sound Ratings: Up to 75 dBA
- Price Range: $3,000 – $9,000
While York furnaces don’t require repairs and maintenance more frequently than other brands, York furnaces are designed with repairs and maintenance in mind. Heat exchangers, blowers, control boards, etc., are all laid out in easily accessible configurations, making repairs and maintenance fast and easy.
And if you happen to need a replacement component, York furnaces use standard components, which HVAC contractors and supply stores typically have in stock. With other brands, such as Lennox and Trane, you might wait multiple days (in a cold home) for a replacement part.
York furnaces are robust, good quality, and have fantastic warranty terms — one year for labor, 10 years on parts, and lifetime warranties for its heat exchangers. To learn about what AC options the brand offers, read our York air conditioner review.
We wish York offered more innovative technology features, such as smart thermostats, remote monitoring, filter status, etc.
American Standard
4.5
Our Rating
American Standard’s products meet the same high standards as those from Trane, its sister company. Like Trane, American Standard offers a range of heating and cooling products to ensure your home remains comfortable year-round.
- Efficiency Ratings: Up to 97.3% AFUE
- Sound Ratings: Up to 73 dBA
- Price Range: $2,700 to $8,500
American Standard furnaces are a solid option among all the choices available, as they’re known for their reliability. The company uses the same high-quality components as Trane and has superb quality management systems at its factories.
Many satisfied customers report these units are both durable and dependable, withstanding the test of time with fewer repair calls than similar brands.
American Standard has three series of furnaces:
- Silver: Base-level efficiencies and features and the most affordable
- Gold: Mid-tier efficiencies available for a lower price point
- Platinum: Most efficient with the latest technologies and the highest price
The cost of American Standard furnaces depends on the series chosen. The Platinum series, including the S8V2-C model, is compatible with American Standard’s AccuLink Technology. AccuLink is unlike a standard smart thermostat — it integrates directly with the furnace’s control board. It lets you control and monitor the variable speed blower, humidity, and temperature. You can also get maintenance/service alerts and view advanced diagnostics, which can help with repairs.
Although American Standard products are available to homeowners nationwide, not all major cities have a dealer. This can make it tricky for homeowners in some areas to purchase and install the units, as they may not have access to a certified dealer.
Trane
4.4
Our Rating
Trane is a well-known name in the HVAC industry, boasting over 135 years of experience and holding a place as one of the industry’s leading heating and cooling specialists. Trane operates as a branch of Ingersoll Rand and offers a wide variety of products designed for efficient heating, cooling, and dehumidifying.
- Efficiency Ratings: Up to 97.3% AFUE
- Sound Ratings: Up to 75 decibels A (dBA)
- Price Range: $2,500 to $9,800
Trane is a top contender among the best furnace brands on our list. The company offers several high-quality furnace models designed and tested for long-lasting performance and durability. Trane is known for its focus on innovation and technology, so many of its products feature cutting-edge features, including smart thermostats.
In addition to its product durability, innovative designs, and tech features, Trane offers an excellent furnace warranty. Many of its gas furnaces feature lifetime heat exchanger warranties. This coverage is exceptional, considering the cost of repairing and replacing heat exchangers.
Although Trane furnaces are a good investment, they have a steep price tag. Prices can seem excessive compared to other brands, putting Trane products out of reach for some budgets.
Which Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Furnace?
As you begin browsing for your next furnace, it’s important to consider a few crucial factors. As you weigh your options, unit types, efficiency, sizing, and warranties are vital considerations. Below we’ll explore what you need to know about these factors before purchasing a furnace.
How Much Does the Brand Cost?
When browsing for a new furnace, you’ll want to consider costs. Furnaces are pricey, so outline a budget you want to work within before beginning your search.
On average, a new furnace costs between $1,500 and $6,500, although the cost depends greatly on your chosen model and brand, as some are pricier than others. For example, if you have a small living space or choose a budget brand, you may pay closer to $1,500 for a smaller unit with a lower efficiency (less than 98% AFUE) and a reasonable sound level (up to 76 dBA).
Generally, more efficient models and those from certain brands (such as Trane or Lennox) are pricier than others. Ultimately, you should choose a model that falls within your budget, but don’t forget to factor in HVAC installation costs.
How Efficient Are the Brand’s Furnace Units?
As you sift through your options, you’ll notice different AFUE (Annualized Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings expressed as percentages. This rating represents how efficiently the furnace converts gas, the most common fuel in modern systems, to heating energy. The higher the percentage, the more efficient the unit.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all new furnaces to have efficiency ratings of 78% or higher, except for those used in mobile homes, which must be 75% efficient.
In addition to increased efficiency, higher percentages also translate to fewer emissions from the furnace. So, a higher-efficiency model is your best bet if you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly choice.
While you can choose a slightly less efficient model (such as one with 80% AFUE) to save money up-front, the long-term energy savings provided by a high-efficiency model usually make up the difference over time.
Which Size Options Does the Brand Offer?
Choosing an appropriately sized furnace with adequate heat output for your space is essential to ensure you and your family remain warm throughout the cold months. The heat output of furnaces is measured in BTUs (British thermal units).
An undersized furnace won’t provide enough warm airflow to keep your home at a comfortable, warm, and even temperature. Additionally, undersized units usually must work nonstop to regulate the temperature, leading to undue stress and a reduced lifespan.
Conversely, an oversized furnace will cycle on and off more frequently, heating the space rapidly. While this might seem convenient, the constant cycling puts more strain on the system’s components, wastes energy, and can cause uncomfortable temperature fluctuations.
It’s usually best to hire a professional to determine the best system size for your home, as calculating the best fit can be tricky. You need to consider more than just square footage — other factors such as ceiling heights, local climates, insulation quality, and more play into the equation. By handing the project to a reputable, experienced professional, you skip the guesswork entirely and can proceed with peace of mind knowing you’re getting an accurately sized system.
What Types of Furnace Units Are Available?
Furnaces come in several types that run on different fuels: natural gas, oil, propane, and electric. The type of furnace you should choose for your home depends on your budget and available resources.
- Natural gas furnaces are the most popular choice in the United States; they’re highly economical and offer exceptional AFUE ratings. Nearly half of U.S. households utilize natural gas to heat their homes.
- Oil is another common heating fuel choice and is widespread in the northeastern United States. While oil-fueled furnaces aren’t as efficient as their natural gas counterparts, they’re cheaper, making them a popular pick.
- Propane powers the heating systems in approximately 10% of U.S. households, as it’s a common choice for homeowners who don’t have access to natural gas lines or oil.
- Electric furnaces are another option for homeowners who don’t have access to any of the fuels mentioned above. While these models are the cheapest to purchase, easy to install, and offer an impressive lifespan, they require electricity to produce heat. In some areas, especially in extreme climates, the cost of heating with electricity is much higher than heating with gas, making it an uneconomical choice.
If you’re unsure which furnace type is best for your area, consult an HVAC technician for assistance. They can offer insight into what resources are available to you and help you decide the best option based on your climate, needs, and budget.
Read our full guide to all the different types of heating systems available to learn more about each furnace option in addition to other units available.
Does the Furnace Brand Provide a Warranty?
As with any significant home investment, your furnace’s warranty is a major consideration. Furnaces are expensive, so it’s essential to choose a model that comes with a solid warranty. Otherwise, the cost of repairing or replacing the system due to unforeseen events falls on your shoulders.
Given the usual furnace lifespan, many new furnaces today come with 10-year limited parts warranties and 20-year manufacturer warranties on the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is the priciest part to repair or replace, as it serves as the “heart” of the system.
Of course, warranties vary based on the brand and model you choose, so ensure you’re familiar with the warranty’s length and conditions before purchasing the unit. Some brands require you to register the product to receive warranty coverage, so verify the requirements upon purchase.
In addition to manufacturer’s warranties, a good home warranty can provide additional coverage for your furnace. Learn about the best home warranties and how a policy can help eliminate unexpected repair costs.
So, Which Is the Best Furnace Brand?
While we recommend Lennox, Bryant, and Goodman as the best brands in the industry based on their warranties, efficiency ratings, and innovative technology, the best option for your home depends on factors specific to you.
We recommend obtaining quotes from a few reputable furnace dealers in your area, which will help you decide. Your furnace dealer can offer insight into the best option for your home based on various factors, like your budget, location, and climate. Once you have quotes from a few dealers, you can choose the company that best fits your needs using their personalized information.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Furnace Brands
What are the top five furnaces?
In general, a few brands manufacture the top five furnaces. These brands include Lennox, Bryant, Goodman, Rheem, and Carrier. The best model from these brands for your home will vary based on factors specific to you, such as the size of your home, your local climate, and your budget.
How much should I budget for a new furnace?
The cost of your new furnace hinges on several factors specific to your scenario, including your local climate, the size of your home, and the brand you choose. For example, a mid-range furnace for a small to medium-sized home often costs between $2,000 and $3,000, although this will climb with furnace installation.
We recommend getting quotes from a few local furnace dealers to find the best price that works for your budget.
What type of furnace lasts the longest?
Generally, furnaces that utilize oil to produce heat have the longest life expectancy. Of course, the life expectancy of your furnace is highly dependent on routine care and maintenance. If you skip regular care and maintenance, your furnace might not last very long, even if it’s an oil-burning furnace.
What is the most efficient furnace for homes?
The most efficient furnaces for residential settings are those boasting AFUE ratings of 90% or higher. The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) measurement is extremely helpful in selecting the most efficient options. Many top brands, including Lennox, Trane, and Carrier, offer highly efficient furnaces.
Methodology: How We Rank Furnace Brands
A furnace is one of the most important appliances in your home. We do the research, talk to experts, and analyze customer reviews, so all you have to do is choose the furnace that best fits your needs and budget.
A company can score a total of 100 points in five categories. This score is then converted into a five-star scale used in our reviews. To develop this methodology, we compared the leading furnace brands in the HVAC industry:
- Products (25 points): We look at what types of furnaces each brand makes, including gas furnaces, oil furnaces, packaged systems, and heat pumps. The more types of furnaces a brand offers, the better it does in this category.
- Efficiency (25 points): Energy-efficient furnaces save you money on energy bills, so our efficiency category accounts for 25 points. The most efficient furnaces have an AFUE rating of 90% or higher. However, if a furnace brand offers models with an AFUE rating of 98% or more, it receives full points in this category.
- ENERGY STAR (10 points): A furnace can be efficient but not efficient enough to earn an ENERGY STAR rating. The furnace brand must offer at least one ENERGY STAR-rated model to score well in this category.
- Affordability (20 points): You shouldn't have to pay too much for a new furnace. That's why we look at how expensive each furnace brand is. Most brands have a range of prices, but to do well in this category, a furnace brand must have at least one model that costs less than $3,000 for the unit alone.
- Warranty (10 points): The best furnace brands offer 10- to 15-year warranties that cover parts, manufacturer defects and, in some cases, replacement of a broken or defective furnace.
- Company Reputation (10): A company's reputation is as important as the quality of its products. We analyze each furnace brand's rating from the Better Business Bureau and rank them based on that rating. The companies with an A+ rating perform the best in this category.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
