Rheem is primarily a home heating and cooling equipment manufacturer, and it has been serving the HVAC industry since 1925.
The company is best known for being a budget brand that makes durable products, with AC prices sitting as low as half what premium brands charge for their equipment. Rheem also provides solid warranty coverage, but if efficiency is your chief concern, the company’s air conditioners might not be the best choice.
In this review, we’ll help you decide if Rheem is the right HVAC brand for you. We’ll take a look at the pricing, overall quality, warranty, efficiency, and more.
What’s Our Take on Rheem Air Conditioners?
Rheem is widely regarded as a trusted and reliable brand for water heaters, gas furnaces, and central air conditioners—particularly for homeowners looking to save some money on AC replacement or installation costs. The pricing for Rheem air conditioners falls between $3,000 and $4,800, which pales in comparison to the $10,000+ you’d see from higher-end companies like Lennox and Trane.
Rheem falls short in comparison to a lot of the competition when it comes to efficiency. The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating you’ll find from this company ranges from 13 to 20.5 and averages around 15 for most units. Compared to the high end of 24 you get from Bryant and Carrier and 28 from Lennox, the efficiency from Rheem is lacking—meaning you’ll spend more on electricity to power your Rheem AC than you would with some more efficient options.
If you do go with Rheem, we recommend opting for a model that hits that 20.5 mark to maximize efficiency. The Rheem Variable-Speed RA20 is one of the company’s best options for balancing efficiency and long-term savings with upfront costs.
Pros and Cons of Rheem Air Conditioner Units
Pros
- Comparatively inexpensive—often half the price of ACs from other companies
- Great variety of products and system types to match your home
- 10-year limited warranty is in line with the industry standard
Cons
- Efficiency ratings are below-average, so long-term savings will be lower than with other manufacturers
- Equipment lacks some of the premium features offered by more expensive companies
What Is Rheem’s Air Conditioner Pricing?
As mentioned above, Rheem is a budget-friendly option for home cooling equipment. The average air conditioner from the company costs around $4,000—most fall between $3,000 and $4,800 per unit. The table below includes a quick look at how the different models offered by Rheem compare in terms of pricing.
| Low-End Models | Mid-Range Models | Premium Models |
| $3,000-$3,500 | $3,500-$4,200 | $4,000-$4,800 |
Rheem ACs are less expensive than similar equipment you’ll find from other companies, and they provide outstanding value for the money. However, most models aren’t equipped with some of the features you’ll find from other manufacturers.
For example, only the Prestige Series RA20 is equipped with a variable-speed compressor, which allows for increased efficiency and quieter operation. The video below explains why variable-speed compressor help make your equipment more efficient:
Most models also don’t have wireless connectivity, which allows you to control your home’s climate remotely. These features are more prevalent from companies like Lennox, which have higher equipment costs.
Rheem uses a national network of third-party installers to provide its equipment to homeowners across the country. The installation cost for Rheem air conditioners will vary based on the HVAC professional you choose.
Keep in mind that the prices above include just the condensing unit and don’t include air handlers or ductwork for your HVAC system—nor do they include installation costs, as these can vary quite a lot based on your chosen HVAC contractor.
For more details about pricing, read our in-depth Rheem air conditioner pricing guide.
How Do Rheem Air Conditioner Models Compare?
Rheem offers around 20 different air conditioner models for residential installation and use, which are split into three series:
- Classic (and the Classic Plus series)
- Select
- Prestige
In our opinion, the Prestige Series provides the most value for the money—primarily because it has the highest efficiency ratings and includes variable-speed compressors. This means the unit produces less noise inside and outside your home, and it also makes your system more efficient overall. You’ll pay more for a model from the Rheem Prestige Series, but the higher efficiency will mean greater energy savings over time.
We’ll include a breakdown of all of the air conditioner models offered by Rheem in the following sections. To help you decide which model might be best for your home, we’ll include some information about the average price range and efficiency ratings of each offering.
Rheem Classic Series Single-Stage RA13
The RA13 belongs to the most affordable series offered by Rheem: the Classic Series. As the name implies, this is a single-stage AC, so it doesn’t offer variable blower speeds. Thus, its efficiency is quite low—and the units are noisier than those with a variable-speed or two-stage compressor for more control over airflow.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,000 to $3,500
- Compressor speed: Single-stage
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 13.0-15.5 SEER/11.5-13 EER
Rheem Classic Series Single-Stage RA14
The Rheem RA14 has a decent efficiency rating of 15.0 SEER, and it uses a Copeland scroll compressor and composite base pan to reduce noise during operation. This model also has a single-stage compressor. The value for the money is quite good—although the efficiency rating might end up costing you more in the long run as opposed to paying more for a higher-efficiency unit in the first place.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,000 to $3,500
- Compressor speed: Single-stage
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 15.0 SEER/12.5 EER
Rheem Classic Series Single-Stage RA14**W
This single-stage AC from Rheem is one of the smaller models—available from 1.5 tons up to 3.5 tons—making it a good option for smaller homes only. It has an efficiency rating of 15 SEER, which is below average, but the price is really what makes this unit appealing. This unit uses a composite base pan to reduce noise when it’s running.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 3.5 tons tons
- Average cost: $3,000 to $3,500
- Compressor speed: Single-stage
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 15.0 SEER/12.5 EER
Rheem Classic Series Single-Stage RA16
The RA16 is another entry in the Classic Series from Rheem, boasting a slightly higher efficiency than the previous models—16.0 SEER. Like all of the other entries in the Classic line, the RA16 features a scroll compressor for better efficiency and a composite base pan to reduce noise. This unit loses some potential efficiency due to the simple, single-stage blower motor.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 5 tons tons
- Average cost: $3,000 to $3,500
- Compressor speed: Single-stage
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 16.0 SEER/13.0 EER
Rheem Classic Series Two-Stage RA17
The RA17 has two-stage operation, which means it can operate at two different settings based on demand and the temperature in your living area. Overall, this provides quieter operation in many cases, as well as increased efficiency. This model is only available in two sizes—2 or 3 tons—and it features the same composite base pan and scroll compressor present in the previous models mentioned.
- Available sizes: 2 or 3 tons
- Average cost: $3,000 to $3,500
- Compressor speed: Two-stage
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 17.0 SEER/13.0 EER
Rheem RA13NZ Endeavor Line
The Endeavor Line is designed to optimize efficiency, although these still aren’t the most efficient models available from Rheem. The RA13NZ is designed to meet regulations set forth by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for northern regions only, so these probably aren’t suitable for southern states that demand more from their air conditioners. This model features a small refrigerant line (7mm), which demands less refrigerant and has less impact on the environment.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,000 to $3,500
- Compressor speed: Single-stage
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 15.2 SEER2/12.0 EER2
Rheem RA14AZ Endeavor Line Classic Series
This model belongs to the Endeavor Line and is part of the Classic Series—so it’s not terribly feature-laden—but it provides better efficiency than most of the other models in the series. It has a SEER2 rating of 16.0, and it uses single-stage operation to keep things simple and affordable.
- Available sizes: 2 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,000 to $3,500
- Compressor speed: Single-stage
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 16.0 SEER2/13.0 EER2
Rheem RA15AZ Endeavor Line Classic Plus Series
The RA15AZ from Rheem is the first entry in the Classic Plus Series. This model uses a variable-speed compressor for better efficiency and quieter operation. As a part of the Classic Plus Series, this unit is also equipped with EcoNet, which offers the ability to control your system remotely.
- Available sizes: 2 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Variable-speed
- Compressor type: Twin rotary compressor
- Efficiency rating: 15.2 SEER2/9.8 EER2
Rheem RA16AZ Endeavor Line Classic Plus Series
The RA16AZ has superior efficiency to the RA15AZ, but it provides access to many of the same features—including EcoNet and variable-speed operation. This model is more expensive than the options in the Classic Line, but the increased efficiency could end up saving you money in the long run. The unit also features the smaller refrigerant line present in the other Classic Plus and Endeavor models.
- Available sizes: 2 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Variable-speed
- Compressor type: Twin rotary compressor
- Efficiency rating: 17 SEER2/10.5 EER2
Rheem Classic Plus Series Two-Stage RA17
As the name implies, this is a two-stage compressor that provides increased comfort, better temperature regulation, and higher efficiency than previous models. This unit uses a scroll compressor, is EcoNet enabled, and features the company’s composite base pan to reduce noise during use.
- Available sizes: 2 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Variable-speed
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 17.0 SEER2/13.0 EER2
Rheem Select Series Single-Stage WA16
As part of Rheem’s Select Series, this model has a relatively high energy efficiency rating for a single-stage model. It does only have one mode of operation, but it still boasts a 16.0 SEER rating. Rheem notes that this model is capable enough for residential applications and light commercial use.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Single speed
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 16.0 SEER/12.5 EER
Rheem Select Series Single-Stage WA14**W
The WA14**W is another model that Rheem notes is suitable for residential and light commercial use. It’s a smaller model—topping out at 3 tons—and it has a lower efficiency rating than most others due to the single-stage motor and the larger refrigerant line size.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 3 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Single speed
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 14.0 SEER/12.5 EER
Rheem WA13NZ Endeavor Line Select Series
The WA13NZ is a part of Rheem’s Endeavor Line. It uses a scroll compressor to provide increased efficiency—although it still operates as a single-stage unit. Rheem notes on its website that this model meets energy standards for Northern regions only, so it’s not ideal for areas with high cooling demands.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Single speed
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 15.2 SEER/12.0 EER
Rheem WA14AZ Endeavor Line Select Series
Unlike the WA13NZ, the WA14AZ meets energy standards for all regions in the U.S. With an efficiency rating of 15.2 SEER2, this unit is likely to provide greater energy savings—despite its single-stage operation.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Single speed
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 15.2 SEER/12.0 EER
Rheem WA15AZ Endeavor Line Select Series
The WA15AZ also meets energy standards for all regions in North America. It has a 15.2 SEER rating (no SEER2 rating is available as of March 2023). This model uses a variable-speed twin rotary compressor for greater efficiency, quieter operation, and increased comfort in your living area. This model also features the smaller 7mm refrigerant line to reduce the amount of refrigerant needed.
- Available sizes: 2 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Variable-speed
- Compressor type: Twin rotary compressor
- Efficiency rating: 15.2 SEER2/9.8 EER2
Rheem Select Series Single Stage WA13
The WA13 is meant for residential use, as well as light commercial applications. It has a lower efficiency rating than most other models from Rheem. Unfortunately, the specifications sheet for the WA13 doesn’t have information on the type of compressor used—nor does it include information about the refrigerant line size. These two things could be culprits for the reduced efficiency.
- Available sizes: 1.5 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $3,500 to $4,200
- Compressor speed: Single speed
- Compressor type: Not available
- Efficiency rating: 13.0 SEER/11.0 EER
Rheem RA18AZ Endeavor Line Prestige Series AC
The RA18AZ is the first entry in Rheem’s Prestige Series, which boasts the highest efficiency ratings offered by the company—but also the highest equipment costs. This model is suitable for all regions in the U.S., provides a SEER2 rating of 20.0, features a variable-speed compressor for increased comfort in your home, and comes EcoNet-enabled. As a part of the Prestige Series, this model comes with some of the highest costs from Rheem.
- Available sizes: 2 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $4,000 to $4,800
- Compressor speed: Variable-speed
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 20.0 SEER/13.0 EER
Rheem Prestige Series Variable-Speed RA20
Finally, the RA20 is the model we recommend most highly from Rheem. It has the highest efficiency rating of any other AC from Rheem—20.5 SEER—is EcoNet-enabled for remote temperature control, and features a variable-speed scroll compressor for quiet operation and better efficiency. This model is more expensive than most others from Rheem, but the equipment costs are still well below what you’d find from many competitors.
- Available sizes: 2 to 5 tons
- Average cost: $4,000 to $4,800
- Compressor speed: Variable-speed
- Compressor type: Scroll compressor
- Efficiency rating: 20.0 SEER/14.5 EER
How Do Rheem Air Conditioners Compare to Top Competitors?
Rheem AC units provide decent durability and are some of the most cost-effective and budget-friendly air conditioners you can buy. They don’t stand up to the competition in terms of efficiency, but the low upfront cost is enticing to most homeowners—even if it means lower energy savings over time.
The table below includes a quick look at how Rheem AC systems stack up against air conditioners from other companies. This should give you an idea of the quality you’ll get from an AC from Rheem—especially in relation to the cost.
| Rheem | Amana | Lennox | |
| Premium Unit Cost | $4,000-$4,800 | $5,000-$6,500 | $7,500-$10,500 |
| Low-End Unit Cost | $3,000-$3,500 | $3,500-$4,500 | $5,000 |
| Top Efficiency Rating | 20.5 SEER | 24.5 SEER | 28 SEER |
| Additional Features | Remote temperature control, scroll compressors | Remote temperature control, sound-dampening equipment, variable-speed compressors | Precise Comfort technology, variable-speed compressors, sound-dampening/noise-canceling equipment, remote temperature control |
| Available AC Types | Split-system, ductless mini-split, heat pumps | Split-system, ductless, heat pump | Split-system, packaged, ductless, heat pump |
| Sound Level | 57-76 decibels | 59-75 decibels | 59-76 decibels |
| Warranty | 10 years | 5-10 years | 10 years |
What Are Rheem’s Warranty Options?
Rheem includes a 10-year limited warranty with all of its systems, plus a 1-year warranty for parts. This is in line with the industry standard.
The warranty is only valid for systems installed in the designated region. Models with an AZ in the model name are suitable for all regions in the U.S., while models with an NZ in the model name are only suitable—and will only hold their warranties—if you install them in Northern regions of the country.
Heat pump warranties from Rheem are only eligible for warranty coverage if you also install a new cooling coil with your equipment.
The phone number for Rheem Manufacturing Company’s warranty department is 479-648-4900 if you want to call and learn more.
What Are Rheem Air Conditioner Reviews From Homeowners?
We always strive to bring you the most accurate information possible. To that end, we’ve read through over 100 customer reviews for Rheem from sites like Better Business Bureau (BBB), TrustPilot, and Google Reviews. We’ve specifically looked for information regarding product durability, installation services, and warranty coverage in Rheem HVAC reviews, and we’ve separated out reviews for other Rheem products, like water heating equipment and furnaces.
Unfortunately, based on a lot of reviews, it seems that you get what you pay for. Rheem might be a cheaper option when it comes to air conditioners, but many of the negative reviews note a short equipment lifespan. It’s clear from the positive reviews that durability isn’t always an issue, and it is worth noting that the much lower equipment costs could still be worth it—even if it means a shorter system lifespan. You can extend the life of your cooling system with proper maintenance, though.
It’s worth noting that there was a class action lawsuit filed against Rheem due to defective heat pumps and air conditioners. There has been no resolution to the lawsuit as of this writing.
Some of the customer complaints stem from issues with installers, who are local contractors. While this isn’t the fault of Rheem specifically, it does mean your overall experience can vary based on the installer you choose.
Finally, some of the negative reviews for Rheem are about the warranty coverage. In all cases that we looked into, the warranty coverage offered was as it was stated, but some customers felt that the limited warranty was unfair—like in the case of a parts warranty not being applicable after specific parts were no longer manufactured. Just be sure to read your warranty documentation from Rheem carefully before buying an AC unit from the company.
What Rheem Features Should You Consider?
Rheem is a budget AC option, so there aren’t many features to speak of compared to other manufacturers. We’ll list some of the things we recommend thinking about when choosing a Rheem air conditioner below.
- Compressor type: Most Rheem ACs use a scroll compressor, which is less efficient and noisier than the twin rotary compressors in the more expensive models.
- EcoNet capability: EcoNet is Rheem’s feature for remote temperature control. This is a nice option that allows you greater control over your system, as well as the potential for higher efficiency. You will need a WiFi-enabled thermostat to get access to this home comfort feature.
- SEER/SEER2 rating: The SEER and SEER2 ratings tell you how efficient your AC will be. You’ll pay more for higher efficiency ratings from Rheem, but systems with higher SEER ratings will often save you money on electricity over time. It’s also worth noting that the systems from Rheem are Energy Star rated, so they are eligible for energy-efficient rebates.
- Stages: Two-stage models are more efficient than single-stage options, and they provide a more stable interior temperature.
- System size: Rheem ACs are available from 1.5 up to 5 tons, although some models have more restrictive sizes. Make sure you match your system size to your cooling demands and home size.
- Type of AC: Rheem offers a few different types of AC systems, all of which carry different efficiency ratings and capabilities, so be sure to choose the one that suits your home and heating/cooling needs best.
So, Is a Rheem Air Conditioner Worth It for Your Home?
Overall, Rheem is a decent option for home air conditioning systems. The ACs are significantly cheaper than they are from most other brands, making this a good budget option for upfront savings. However, lower equipment costs do translate to some issues with durability—according to customer reviews—and the brand as a whole has lower efficiency ratings than some of the more premium options out there.
We recommend Rheem if you’re looking to keep initial replacement or installation costs down, but we’d suggest a different company if you want total peace of mind, system longevity, and high efficiency ratings. If you do go with Rheem, we’d recommend staying away from the Classic Series, as they have some of the lowest efficiency ratings.
The Rheem Prestige Series Variable-Speed RA20 is one of the company’s top models. It has the highest efficiency rating—and although it’s the most expensive option from the company, it’s the model we recommend most.
FAQs About Rheem Air Conditioners
Is Rheem a good AC brand?
Rheem is a decent option for ACs if you’re looking for a budget brand to save money upfront. This brand does have a shorter life expectancy and lower efficiency ratings than some of its premium competitors, like Lennox.
What is the life expectancy of a Rheem air conditioner?
Typical air conditioners last for 15 to 20 years. However, since the Rheem brand is a budget option, you might see a system lifespan of 10 to 15 years. The warranty coverage only lasts for ten years, and it’s a limited warranty.
Is there a class action lawsuit against Rheem?
Yes, there was a class action lawsuit filed against Rheem for defective components in heat pumps and split AC systems. There has been no resolution as of this writing.
What is the price of a Rheem AC?
The prices for Rheem ACs range from $3,000 up to $4,800 per unit, depending on the model you choose. This is significantly cheaper than you’ll find from most competitors, even when compared to some other budget options like Goodman and American Standard. The only truly comparable units in terms of affordability are Ruud’s air conditioners, which is owned by the same parent company.
Methodology: How Do We Rank Rheem and Other Air Conditioner Brands?
The experts at Today’s Homeowner provide only the most transparent and accurate information for all your home improvement needs. Our reviews of HVAC companies focus on what matters most to homeowners, including efficiency, sound ratings, cost, and more.
To gather our information, our experts review publicly available information, gather quotes, speak with HVAC contractors, and analyze consumer reviews.
A company can score a total of 100 points across five categories. This score is then converted into a five-star scale. We studied dozens of the best air conditioner brands to develop the following rating methodology:
- Affordability (20 points): Material and labor costs are the two most important factors in assessing affordability. However, we consider more than just these factors and evaluate how air conditioner brands accommodate a range of budgets.
- Efficiency (25 points): An air conditioner’s efficiency directly affects your monthly energy bills. We look to see if air conditioner brands offer high-efficiency units and ensure each unit passes the minimum SEER and EER requirements for each region.
- Sound Rating (20 points): The best air conditioners can cool your home with little to no sound. We rate air conditioner brands based on how quiet their systems are. Companies that offer air conditioners that produce fewer than 57 decibels do the best in this category.
- Products (25 points): We evaluate the company’s brands and whether they offer multiple equipment options and high-efficiency units. Companies that offer split-system, packaged systems, ductless systems, heat pumps, portable units, and window air conditioners score the best in this category.
- Warranty (10 points): The best air conditioner brands back up their products and services with extensive warranties. We research each company’s material and workmanship warranties and evaluate them based on comprehensiveness and length.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
