Not all furnaces are built the same. Some last 25 years with minimal issues, while others barely make it past 10. If you’re replacing your furnace, don’t just go with the first brand your contractor offers—you need to know what you’re paying for and what you’re getting in return.
After working with just about every furnace brand out there, I can tell you that Lennox, Bryant, and Goodman stand out in different ways.
- Lennox is the go-to for high efficiency and premium performance
- Bryant delivers solid reliability at a midrange price
- Goodman is a budget-friendly workhorse that’s easy to repair
The best choice comes down to your budget, home size, and climate. High-end models with variable-speed blowers and modulating heat are great if you live somewhere with extreme winters, but they cost more upfront. Basic single-stage furnaces are cheaper but may struggle to keep your home comfortable in really cold climates.
In this guide, I’ll break down the best furnace brands by category — premium, midrange, and budget — so you can make the smartest decision for your home and your wallet.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Furnace Brands by Cost and Quality
We’ve compiled energy efficiency ratings, cost data, special features, and warranty information to sort the best furnace brands into three categories: premium, midrange, and budget. Within these categories, we’ve arranged the brands by our rating.
Premium Brands
Premium furnace brands include Lennox, Carrier, and Trane. They tend to cost $3,000–$13,000 including installation. While these furnaces are more expensive than midrange or budget brands, they offer higher long-term energy savings and ultra-quiet operation. Some models may also be equipped with smart-home integration features.
A furnace’s efficiency is measured by its ability to convert fuel into heat over a set amount of time. Based on these findings, an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating is given. The higher the rating, the more efficient the furnace. The premium brands on our list boast high-efficiency AFUE ratings of up to 99%. However, the resulting energy savings may not make up for the higher price point for all homeowners.
Lennox
5.0
Our Rating
Lennox furnaces are known for their superior energy efficiency and quiet operation, making them a great option for homeowners looking to lower energy costs. Lennox offers a wide selection of furnaces, including some budget-friendly and low-emissions options.
- Lennox units have the highest efficiency ratings on the market.
- Systems have advanced smart thermostat compatibility.
- Units feature SilentComfort™ technology for ultra-quiet operation, as low as 58 decibels.
- Lennox products cost more upfront compared to competitors.
- Repairs and parts can be expensive.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 99% AFUE
- Cost range: $2,900–$8,300
- Sound rating: Up to 76 decibels A (dBA)
You prioritize top-tier energy efficiency and long-term savings but don’t mind high initial costs.
Carrier
4.9
Our Rating
Carrier offers a wide selection of gas and oil furnaces. Many of its models are ENERGY STAR certified and equipped with Carrier’s InteliSense™ Technology. This technology integrates with the ecobee for the Carrier Smart Thermostat, allowing for data sharing and remote monitoring of the furnace’s health and maintenance needs.
- Carrier offers several high-efficiency models, as well as low and ultra-low emissions options.
- The company offers excellent warranties (10 years for all parts, 20 years or lifetime for major parts, depending on the product line).
- Its most advanced furnace has Greenspeed® Intelligence to automatically adapt to a home’s output needs.
- Premium models require a high upfront cost.
- Repair costs may be high, as parts aren’t widely available.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 98.5% AFUE
- Cost range: $2,400–$9,500
- Sound rating: Up to 73 dBA
You’re after a highly efficient furnace equipped with the latest smart-home technology.
Trane
4.4
Our Rating
Trane furnaces are known for durability and energy savings, especially in extreme climates where a furnace earns its keep. Select models are compatible with Trane’s smart thermostats, making this brand desirable for smart-home integration. Unfortunately, Trane’s durability comes at a reasonably high cost—it’s one of the most expensive furnace brands, surpassing even Lennox and Carrier’s prices.
- Many of its gas furnaces feature lifetime heat exchanger warranties.
- Some models are compatible with Trane smart thermostats.
- A couple of ultra-low emissions models are available.
- It provides a limited selection of high-efficiency models.
- Trane is the most expensive furnace brand on our list.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 97.3% AFUE
- Cost range: $4,800–$13,500
- Sound rating: Up to 75 dBA
You value a durable, long-lasting furnace that works well in extreme climates.
Midrange Brands
Bryant, Rheem, and American Standard are our top midrange furnace brands. They offer good efficiency and durable construction at a more affordable price point, starting at $2,300, factoring in labor.
While lacking some extra features—such as smart-home integration—these brands are highly efficient, with AFUE ratings of up to 98.3%. They generally come with reliable warranties and may provide the best value for your money when comparing long-term energy savings to upfront cost.
Bryant
4.9
Our Rating
Bryant is the sister brand of Carrier, both of which are owned by Carrier Global Corporation. Bryant furnaces are more affordable than Carrier’s but boast many of the same features. Bryant’s most efficient model offers up to 98.3% AFUE.
- Bryant is ENERGY STAR certified, meaning its units meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.
- Bryant’s Evolution and Preferred lines offer ultra-quiet operation.
- The preferred line provides InteliSense technology for smart-home integration.
- Its most expensive model only has a 10-year limited parts warranty, reduced to five years if the furnace isn’t registered within 90 days.
- Bryant doesn’t integrate many smart-tech features.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 98.3% AFUE
- Cost range: $2,300–$5,500
- Sound rating: Up to 76 dBA
You’re looking for a reliable, energy-efficient furnace that won’t break the bank.
Rheem
4.9
Our Rating
Rheem offers a wide selection of furnaces with AFUE ratings from 80% to 98%. Its three product lines are priced from midrange to budget-friendly. Rheem furnaces can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app.
- Rheem’s furnaces are compatible with the EcoNet smart thermostat and phone app for remote access and monitoring.
- Its Classic Plus series gas furnace produces and releases low levels of nitrogen oxide.
- Insulated cabinets offer ultra-quiet operation.
- Rheem’s budget models only offer middling efficiency.
- Some models only have a 20-year, as opposed to a lifetime, warranty on the heat exchanger.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 98% AFUE
- Cost range: $2,500–$6,400
- Sound rating: Up to 76 dBA
You value reliability at a budget and want to control your thermostat remotely.
American Standard
4.5
Our Rating
Price for value is a major consideration when purchasing a furnace, and American Standard combines the best of both worlds, offering reasonably efficient models at a midrange price point. Like its sister company, Trane, American Standard offers high-quality units.
- The brand is known for premium products and quality management.
- Platinum models are compatible with the AccuLink™ Communicating System, allowing remote access and program alerts.
- Many customers report fewer repair calls than with other brands.
- Models are slightly less efficient than those from the premium brands on our list.
- Depending on where you live, you may have trouble finding an American Standards dealer.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 97.3% AFUE
- Cost range: $2,500–$7,000
- Sound rating: Up to 73 dBA
You’re seeking a durable, high-quality furnace but don’t want to pay premium prices.
Budget Brands
Our favorite budget furnace brands are Goodman, York, and Amana. With prices starting at $2,000 with installation, these brands are ideal if you have a limited budget or need to quickly replace the furnace in your house or rental home.
These furnace brands offer up to 98% AFUE ratings. However, limited warranties are a drawback in this category.
Goodman
5.0
Our Rating
When you need a furnace quickly and have a limited budget, Goodman’s products are a good choice. Manufactured by multinational company Daikin, Goodman furnaces deliver reliability with high- and mid-efficiency offerings. They are available for purchase via online retailers like Amazon and local dealers.
- All furnaces have ComfortBridge technology, ensuring they operate at peak efficiency.
- Goodman units are available at online retailers or through local dealers.
- Two of Goodman’s models produce and release low levels of nitrogen oxide.
- These furnaces last 12–20 years, whereas premium brands can last over 20 years.
- Goodman only offers 10 furnace models.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 98% AFUE
- Cost range: $2,000–$6,000
- Sound rating: Up to 73 dBA
You want an efficient, affordable unit and don’t mind a potentially shorter lifespan.
York
4.7
Our Rating
York offers a line of furnaces and air conditioning units at budget-friendly prices. While York doesn’t have as many technological features as some premium brands, it’s known for reliability and makes several high-efficiency models.
- The brand provides strong warranties—one year for labor, 10 years for parts, and a lifetime for heat exchangers.
- York furnaces use standard parts, which are easy to find.
- Durable construction offers great value for the cost.
- York doesn’t offer innovative technology such as smart thermostats and remote monitoring.
- Some consumers report poor quality control.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 98% AFUE
- Cost range: $2,500–$5,500
- Sound rating: Up to 75 dBA
You’re working with a limited budget or prefer a basic yet dependable model.
Amana
4.7
Our Rating
Opting for a less expensive furnace brand doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice efficiency. Amana carries mid- and high-efficiency furnace models, with some boasting AFUE ratings of up to 98%. Both Amana and Goodman are part of Daikan.
- Some units feature ComfortNet Communications, allowing temperature monitoring, service reminders, and humidity control.
- Amana offers good warranties, including 10 years for parts and a lifetime for heat exchangers.
- Amana’s website allows you to easily view all furnaces from most to least efficient.
- Its base models may be noisy.
- Amana models have limited smart features.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 98% AFUE
- Cost range: $2,100–$7,800
- Sound rating: Up to 77 dBA
You value efficiency and durability but don’t wish to spend much.
Additional Considerations for Other Brands
Our list is not all-encompassing, and another furnace brand may be best suited for your needs. When shopping for other brands, compare their offerings against those of competitors at the same price.
Also, be sure to evaluate warranties, read past customer reviews, and confirm that the brand is widely available so that if an issue arises, you can find the appropriate parts and an HVAC technician who can service it.
Brand Comparisons by Features and Price
The table below shows how our top brands compare across factors such as price and energy efficiency.
This site receives compensation from some of the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. When you click “Get Quote,” you will be connected with partners who may contact you with information related to your inquiry. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
|
Brand
|
Price Range
|
Warranty
|
Best For
|
Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Lennox
Our Review
|
$5,000–$10,500 | 10 years | Best For SEER | Our Review |
 Carrier
Our Review
|
$4,800–$11,000 | 10 years | Best for Noise Level | Our Review |
|
Trane
Our Review
|
$4,800–$13,500 | 10 years | Most Years of Experience | Our Review |
|
Bryant
Our Review
|
$3,130-$10,520 | 10 years | Best for SEER | Our Review |
|
Rheem
Our Review
|
$3,000–$4,800 | 10 years | Best for Sustainability | Our Review |
|
American Standard
Our Review
|
$3,500–$6,100 | 10 years | Best for Warranty | Our Review |
|
Goodman
Our Review
|
$3,500–$5,500 | 10 years | Best Unit Replacement Warranty | Our Review |
 York
Our Review
|
$2,500–$6,000 | 10 years | Best Extended Warranty | Our Review |
 Amana
Our Review
|
$3,500–$6,500 | 10 years | Best A/C Model Variety | Our Review |
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Furnace
Furnaces are critical in keeping homes warm during frigid winter months. In addition to cost, you should consider factors such as efficiency, size, and warranty coverage. This will help ensure you purchase a long-lasting unit that’s powerful enough to heat your home.
Efficiency (AFUE Ratings)
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency measures how well a furnace converts heat into fuel. If a furnace has an 80% AFUE rating, then only 80% of the utilized fuel is converted to heat, and the other 20% escapes through the chimney or exhaust.
Modern furnaces must have an AFUE rating of at least 80%. However, even higher ratings mean more efficient furnaces. Furnaces with 90%–98.5% AFUE ratings are considered high-efficiency, according to the Department of Energy.
Size and BTU Output
A furnace that’s too large for a home can leave some rooms hot and stuffy, while a model that’s too small will have to work overtime, increasing energy bills and potentially shortening the furnace’s lifespan.
A furnace’s output is measured in British thermal units (BTUs). The higher the BTU output, the more area a furnace can cover. Depending on your local climate and your home’s level of insulation, you’ll need anywhere from 30 to 60 BTUs per square foot.
An oversized furnace may heat your home too quickly, leading to higher energy bills and discomfort.
According to Jon Gilbertson, president and CEO at Chris Heating & Cooling in West Chicago, Illinois, many homes have improperly sized furnaces. “Don’t assume your current furnace size is correct—many homes have oversized systems that waste energy. Instead of just asking about BTUs, demand a Manual J load calculation to ensure you’re not overpaying for unnecessary capacity,” he said.
Fuel Type
Furnaces are available in four fuel types: natural gas, propane, oil, and electricity.
- Natural gas: This is the most common fuel for furnaces. Natural gas furnaces can be expensive upfront, but they offer the lowest ongoing operating costs.
- Propane: These furnaces work similarly to natural gas furnaces, except they use propane as their fuel source. However, propane is generally more expensive to heat than natural gas.
- Oil: These furnaces cost less than natural gas ones but are also less efficient. Oil is more expensive than natural gas and must be stored onsite in tanks. However, oil furnaces have the longest life expectancy.
- Electricity: These furnaces require electricity to produce heat. They’re often installed when other fuel sources aren’t available. While they’re efficient, they won’t work during a power outage.
Your furnace’s life expectancy 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.
Noise Levels
A furnace’s noise level is measured in A-weighted decibels (dBA), which represent sound loudness as perceived by human ears. The lower the dBA, the quieter the furnace. If your furnace will be installed near your bedroom or another quiet area, look for quiet or ultra-quiet models. For an easy comparison, a whisper is about 20–30 dBA, and a hair dryer is about 80 dBA.
Warranty Coverage
Furnaces are long-lasting household appliances, making their warranties important. Most furnaces have 10-year parts warranties and at least 20-year heat exchanger warranties, although many brands offer lifetime heat exchanger warranties. Before making a purchase, read a furnace’s warranty to understand what is and isn’t covered.
How To Save Money on Your Furnace Purchase
Even budget-friendly furnaces can cost several thousands of dollars after factoring in the unit’s price and installation costs. Compare multiple quotes from local HVAC companies to ensure you get the best value.
Spring and summer are the best times for off-season pricing, but you can also find deals in other ways, according to Gilbertson. “Some HVAC companies have brand-new, unused furnaces from canceled jobs at a discount, so ask them about such options too,” he said.“
“And, of course, don’t neglect different rebates and tax credits,” Gilbertson added. You may be able to save hundreds to thousands of dollars through rebates and tax credits, depending on the model and its efficiency rate. The federal tax credit can save you up to $600, but you should also look into local rebates and credits.
If paying for a furnace outright isn’t in the cards, consider financing options. You can compare dealers offering financing plans with low-interest home improvement loans to find the best terms and rates.
What’s Next?
Whether you value smart-home integration or high efficiency, furnace models are available for every fuel type, need, and budget level. Before making a final selection, collect quotes and compare each furnace’s upfront cost, efficiency, features, and warranty. Your furnace dealer can offer insights into the best option for you based on your budget, location, and climate.
Ready to explore and compare furnace options? Get free quotes from trusted HVAC professionals today.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
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.
