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If you've been shopping around for a new heat pump, you've likely noticed that heat pumps are a dime a dozen. But which one is best and how can you tell which brand is
trustworthy?
While there are plenty of high-quality heat pumps on the market, a few stand out as the best of the bunch for a few reasons.
We get it, there are so many options out there! But don't sweat it. After years of installing heat pumps for homeowners around the Los Angeles area, it's clear that there are wide gaps between heat pumps. We can help you identify these gaps so you can make the best decision for your home.
The main factor driving these gaps between heat pump brands are efficiency, additional features, warranty, and cost. The top brands excel in each of these categories, while others lag behind.
Five of the best heat pump brands are:
Let's take a look at some of our top picks for the best heat pump brands in to help you find the right fit for your home before jumping into how we rated these brands. Ready? Let's jump in!
While you may be familiar with the brand's cars, Mitsubishi created the ductless mini-split in . With so much experience, Mitsubishi is credited as one of the most reliable heat pumps on the market.
After 125 years of operation, Lennox has proven it has staying power. Some of the company's longevity stems from its forward-thinking mindset, reflected in its wide-sweeping Energy Start qualification, a program backed by the United States government that certifies energy-efficient products.
Goodman has only been in the HVAC game since and doesn't boast the same brand recognition as other brands on the list. But one thing Goodman does come through on is being a brand with a solid pricing model if you're on a tighter budget.
Carrier is one of the most recognizable brands in air conditioning, and with good reason. Willis Carrier, the founder of the company, invented air conditioning in . The brand built itself on the back of this accomplishment for decades.
Trane was formed in and has moved on to create reliable products to differentiate itself from its competitors. After 120 years in the game, Trane has become one of the best-known brands in heating and cooling.
Looking at the factors that make the best heat pump brands can lead us into some pretty technical territory. But don't worry, if you stick with us, we promise you'll be ready to hit the show floor with a strong knowledge base and confidence to go toe-to-toe with even the most aggressive salesperson.
Starting with arguably the most important factor, check out how efficiency ranges plays a key role in determining the best brands.
Efficiency is measured in a couple of ways for heat pumps. For cooling, we look at the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER), and for heating, we judge the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF).
SEER ratings measure the ratio between the cooling output and energy input of an air conditioner or heat pump. Basically, this determines how much energy the device uses, or more plainly, how much it will cost you to run during a cooling season like summer.
SEER ratings run from a minimum of 13 to a more efficient 21 in most cases. But you'll find plenty of high-efficiency models that outpace those values. Some are even on this list!
When you see a SEER rating, that is the maximum efficiency of that specific model.
HSPF ratings gauge the heating efficiency over the course of a heating season, which would be fall or winter. The minimum HSPF rating is 8.8, with 9 and 10 being considered on the lower high end of the range.
A higher HSPF, like a SEER rating, indicates better efficiency.
Today, we'll be gauging brands based on their maximum efficiency ratings to see which ones are leading the pack.
But efficiency isn't the only aspect of a heat pump to consider. You'll also need to weigh the additional features.
As the world gets smarter with new tech dropping by the bucket, heat pumps have also followed suit. While there's nothing wrong with going the traditional route and foregoing the modern comforts of a system that has app and smart thermostat support, these features aren't going anywhere and can add value to your home.
Having control over your home while you're home and away can make it easier to dial in your system's efficiency and save on energy bills. It's a more modern feature but has proven to be valuable for many homeowners looking to save energy and money.
Other additional features can include proprietary designs that promote efficiency in the form of better heat transfer, while some may be variable speed technology that works smarter and not harder to cool your home.
How important these features are will boil down to what you want out of your home's heating and cooling.
A more objective factor that plays a role in determining the best brands is the strength of their respective warranties.
Look, nobody enjoys when things break down, let alone when you have to pay for them on your dime. That said, the best heat pump brands have solid warranties that have you covered for years to come. Just don't expect any labor in most cases.
For those brands without ironclad warranties, other factors like higher-than-average efficiency can counteract the flimsy warranty.
But what most people really care about is the price. How much are you going to have to invest to get the heating and cooling performance you need?
These smart features and high-efficiency ratings are great and all, but how much is it going to cost me? Yeah, that's the question on everyone's mind when shopping for any HVAC component like a heat pump.
While cost is an unavoidable pitfall of installing a heat pump in your home, not every brand requires the same outlay of cash. In fact, it's pretty difficult to tell you exactly how much an installation will cost you.
For every brand, you'll need to consider the cost of the unit and the installation cost. Are you planning on running ductwork? Maybe you're going the ductless route. Either way, these variables make it hard to give an outright number.
Your best bet is to pursue a quote from a highly-rated installer in your area. It doesn't hurt to look up other factors that play a role in how much an HVAC system costs to install, either.
We've touched on everything from warranties to efficiency to give you a better idea of what are the best heat pump brands for . Now, you'll be able to shop around confidently while knowing what qualities the best heat pump should so you can navigate the wealth of options more efficiently.
Having installed and serviced HVAC systems across the Los Angeles area, we understand that finding the right fit for your home is a top priority. You may not be able to secure your desired brand with every installer, but be sure to shop around and make compromises when necessary.
If you need help deciding on the right heat pump for your home, call us at (818) 213- or visit our HVAC services page to book a consultation with a technician. Calling out a technician, even if it isn't one of ours, is the best way to ensure you get a heat pump that suits your home.
If you're just researching at this point, check which HVAC system is best for you to help determine your home's needs. Since many of the brands listed offer additional connectivity through apps, be sure to read up on the best smart thermostats of .
If you're considering purchasing or upgrading your heat pump, you'll need to know exactly what to look for in terms of features and operating capacity. Finding the best heat pump brand for you and your family can save you money and energy all year long. Use this information as a guide as you shop for the brand and model that best suits your needs.
Once you decide on the right heat pump for your home, HVAC.com can deliver a comprehensive HVAC quote within 24 hours, giving you peace of mind to move forward with confidence.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is an all-in-one heating and cooling system. In the summer, it operates similarly to a central air conditioning system by using a refrigerant to pull heat from inside the home and transfer it outside through the system's compressor.
During the colder months, heat pumps operate in reverse. They use a reversing valve to seamlessly switch from cooling to heating mode. During the winter, heat pumps use refrigerant to extract heat from the outdoors and transfer it indoors. Even when it's cold outside, there's enough heat in the outside air to provide adequate heating. Since heat pumps simply move heat in and out of the home depending on the season, they don't require fossil fuels such as natural gas to create heat. This makes them energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
In the past, heat pumps didn't operate as efficiently once the temperature dropped below freezing. However, with new technology, heat pumps are incredibly efficient; many upgraded models can still operate efficiently in temperatures below zero.
Homeowners who live in far northern states such as Minnesota, North Dakota, and Alaska often pair their air-source heat pump with a dual-fuel system that consists of a heat pump and gas furnace. The gas furnace takes over when the temperature drops below what the heat pump can efficiently handle.
Different Types of Heat Pumps
Air-source heat pumps are the most common type of heat pump, with an estimated 17 million American homes operating them. However, there are two other heat pump types to consider ' geothermal heat pumps and ductless mini-split heat pumps.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Geothermal heat pumps are the most efficient HVAC systems on the market. Like air-source heat pumps, they operate by moving heat in and out of the home. But instead of exchanging heat with the outside air, geothermal heat pumps, also referred to as ground-source heat pumps, utilize the constant temperature 6 feet underground, where it's typically 55 degrees on average.
During the warmer months, the geothermal heat pump's heat exchanger extracts indoor heat and transfers it underground to cool a home. During the colder season, geothermal HVAC systems work in reverse, by taking heat from underground and moving it indoors.
Geothermal heat pump systems use a ground loop, which is a series of pipes buried underground. The ground loop serves as a heat source during the winter months and a heat sink during the warmer months.
Geothermal heat pumps are more expensive than other HVAC systems, costing an average of $13,781, according to Angi. That price is just an average, as factors such as the size of your home and the need for ductwork affect the price. You can recoup the higher costs over time through significantly lower energy bills, as heat pumps are 300-600% efficient on cold winter nights.
Meanwhile, a heat pump water heater, also referred to as an air-to-water heat pump, extracts warmth from the outside to heat water that is then used to heat your home during the colder months. In the summer, the heat from the water is transferred outside to cool a home.
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps
Ductless mini-split heat pumps are also a popular alternative to forced-air heating and cooling systems. As their name suggests, they don't require the use of ductwork to distribute conditioned air to your home's living areas.
Ductless mini-splits consist of an outdoor compressor/condenser unit and one or more indoor air handling units that are installed on ceilings or walls across the home. They are connected by a conduit that contains the refrigerant and power lines.
Each indoor unit provides heating and cooling to just the room or area of the house it's installed in. Ductless systems are most commonly used to provide supplemental heating or cooling to areas that are difficult to keep comfortable such as bonus rooms over garages and sunrooms. They can also be used to convert garages, attics, and basements without ductwork into workable or livable areas. Some homeowners install mini-splits throughout their entire home to create temperature zones, as each unit can be controlled separately with a remote control.
Without the use of ductwork, ductless mini-split heat pumps are highly efficient. Ductwork can lose 20% or more of conditioned air through leaks and poor insulation.
How Long Do Heat Pumps Last?
Air-source heat pumps last about 15 years on average, although some heat pumps can stop working efficiently after 10 years while others run efficiently for 20 years. Some of the most significant factors that affect a heat pump's longevity include the climate, usage, make and model, and maintenance history. If your heat pump is used as a heating and cooling system, heat pump maintenance should be performed twice a year; once before the heating season and again before the cooling season.
Aside from being incredibly energy efficient, another advantage of geothermal heat pump systems is their longevity. Regular maintenance can help a ground-source heat pump last 20-25 years.
Are Incentives Available for Heat Pumps?
As the federal government looks to promote the use of more eco-friendly HVAC equipment, heat pumps have been pushed to the forefront, causing their popularity to skyrocket. To increase ownership of heat pumps, significant heat pump rebates and heat pump tax credits are available as part of the Inflation Reduction Act of .
As part of the federal program, homeowners are eligible for a 30% tax credit on the purchase and installation of a qualified heat pump, up to a maximum credit of $2,000. But depending on your household income, you could be eligible for even higher savings.
Through the IRA's heat pump incentive program, called the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act (HEEHRA), you can receive a rebate of 50% of the cost of a heat pump, up to $8,000, if your household income is 81 to 150% of your area's median income. If your income is 80% or below your area's median income, your heat pump will be covered at 100%, up to $8,000.
If you're considering buying a heat pump, HVAC.com's customer concierge team can connect you with a local HVAC dealer who can identify potential tax credits and rebates for heat pumps and install the system for you.
To determine the best heat pumps in the industry, we looked at several factors and features of each brand to help you make an informed purchasing decision. The primary things to look for when comparing heat pump options are named below. The criteria you should consider include the following:
Goodman is a well-known brand in the HVAC industry and provides great energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions for homes large and small. They also have a strong heat pump rating and a decent warranty program to protect your system in case anything happens.
Goodman GSZC18
Overview
Goodman heat pumps have a good reputation as a mid-range brand, and while reliable, other top-name brands may be more reliable. Goodman heat pumps require that homeowners schedule a professional tune-up at least once a year. Heat pumps should be maintained by inspecting the fan, indoor coils, outdoor coils, compressor, and refrigerant lines.
Features
Learn more about Goodman heat pumps
Efficiency
ENERGY STAR certified; up to 18 SEER
Cost
Unit Price: Around $4,000 Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average): $800 to $1,700 (high): $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
Customers gave this heat pump over 4,600 five-star heat pump reviews, with only 44 one-star reviews
Carrier is a top brand in the HVAC industry and provides versatile heating and cooling solutions that improve energy consumption and save you money in the long run. The brand is known for its next-level high-efficiency heat pumps.
Infinity 20 Heat Pump with Greenspeed Intelligence (25VNA0)
Overview
Carrier heat pumps are some of the most durable, environmentally friendly, and energy efficient in the HVAC industry. Carrier heat pumps come with a range of specialized features, like Greenspeed Intelligence, optimal humidity and temperature control, variable-speed compressor operation for ultimate quiet and comfort, compressor sound blanket, and Silencer System II design. They also feature WeatherArmor Ultra protection, non-ozone depleting Puron refrigerant, and Ideal Defrost heating operation with Infinity control.
Features
Learn more about Carrier heat pumps
Efficiency
Up to 20.5 SEER; ENERGY STAR partner
Cost
Unit Price: Around $4,940 Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
Customer reviews: Overall, customers seem very satisfied with this Carrier heat pump, giving it 73 five-star heat pump reviews.
Ruud is a respected brand that can provide you with a high-efficient heat pump for reliable heating all winter long. Ruud heat pumps are made with high-quality materials and parts.
RUUD Ultra Series (Variable Speed (UPB)
Overview
Ruud heat pumps are built to last for 10 years or more, and include extra features like rust-resistant screws and a corrosion-resistant base pan. To keep your heat pump in good condition, you should inspect the blower, filters, ducts, and indoor coil for obstructions and dirt. You should also seal any leaks in the ducts, lubricate the motors, inspect the belts for tightness and wear, check the refrigerant, and make sure the thermostat is operating properly.
Features
Learn more about Ruud heat pumps
Efficiency
Up to 20 SEER and 11 HSPF; ENERGY STAR qualified
Cost
Unit Price: $3,150 to $6,940 Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Warranty
Ruud offers a 10 year parts warranty and a 10 year conditional unit replacement warranty.
The company is the world’s best Air Source Heat Pump Manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
Consult with a heat pump expert who can help you choose the best one for your home.
Trane offers flexible heating and cooling solutions that save you money and energy. This unit offers more than 750 stages of comfort for increased comfort and maximum efficiency.
Trane XV20i (4TWVA)
Overview
According to Trane, there are several things you can do to properly maintain your heat pump unit through the years. They include keeping the registers open, cleaning or changing your filters at least once a month (or as needed), removing foliage from around the outdoor unit, elevating your unit about four to eight inches above the ground to allow for appropriate drainage, and cleaning the outdoor coils. You can also check for duct leakage, inspect the heat pump's condensing unit base-pan drain holes and remove debris. It's also recommended to lubricate the motors and inspect the belts for wear and tightness, and correct the refrigerant charge, among other things.
Features
Learn more about Trane heat pumps
Efficiency
Rated Most Efficient by ENERGY STAR; Up to 20 SEER
Cost
Unit Price: $3,250 (unit only) $6,200 (installed) Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
Customers give Trane heat pumps high marks for energy efficiency, though they can be pricier than other brands.
Rheem manufactures quality heating and cooling products designed for year-round comfort and increased energy efficiency. The brand has been trusted in both residential and commercial settings for years, and offers efficient units with an array of features.
RP20 EcoNet Variable Speed (RPAJVCA)
Overview
Rheem heat pumps can deliver quiet, efficient heating and cooling. To keep your Rheem heat pump in good working condition, you should check the air filters every month, keep the outdoor coils clean, and inspect the blower, filters, ducts, and indoor coil for obstructions and dirt. You should also lubricate the motors, seal any leaks in the ducts, check the refrigerant, make sure the thermostat is operating properly, and inspect the belts for tightness and wear.
Features
Learn more about Rheem heat pumps
Efficiency
Up to 20 SEER; ENERGY STAR qualified
Cost
Unit Price: Around $2,230 Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
Overall, customers like that their Rheem heat pumps are reliably efficient and easy to operate.
Lennox is one of the most widely-known brands in the industry and is known for its innovative heating and cooling solutions that provide energy-efficient comfort all season long. The brand provides quiet heating coupled with robust performance.
Lennox XP25-060
Overview
Lennox offers one of the most precise and energy-efficient heat pumps you can buy. In order to keep your Lennox heat pump running efficiently, you'll need to properly maintain your system. That means cleaning the coils and blower parts, changing the air filer monthly, keeping the outdoor coils clean, sealing any leaks in the ducts, lubricating the motors, inspecting the belts for tightness and wear, checking the refrigerant, and making sure the thermostat is operating properly.
Features
Learn more about Lennox heat pumps
Efficiency
Up to 23.5 SEER; ENERGY STAR qualified
Cost
Unit Price: $5,540 (unit only); $13,900 (installed) Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
Customers praise Lennox heat pumps for their energy efficiency and their reliability.
Schedule a free in-home consultation with a heat pump dealer.
Bryant products provide economical and energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions that help you save money all year round. The brand produces heat pumps that give you better control of your indoor climate all throughout the winter and summer months.
Bryant Evolution Extreme Variable Speed (280A)
Overview
Bryant combines system control intelligence with variable-speed operation to provide amazing reliability, as well as energy savings and ultimate comfort. To keep your Bryant heat pump operating efficiently, you should regularly clean or replace your air filter, have your system inspected and cleaned twice a year, and make sure the ceiling fans are set to spin in the right direction. Additionally, keep 80 percent of your home's vents open, and eliminate debris from around your outdoor unit, according to Bryant.
Features
Learn more about Bryant's brand
Efficiency
Up to 20.5 SEER; ENERGY STAR qualified
Cost
Unit Price: $4,540 (unit only); $10,500 (installed) Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
According to customer reviews, Bryant heat pumps offer excellent energy efficiency with low noise levels.
American Standard is another top brand that offers energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions for maximum comfort through the harshest winters and the muggiest summers.
AccuComfort Platinum 20
Overview
American Standard heat pumps are incredibly reliable and made to withstand years of wear and tear. According to American Standard, keeping your heat pump in good condition means cleaning the supply and returning registers in your home, cleaning or changing your filters once a month (or as needed), removing foliage and outdoor debris from around the outdoor unit, and cleaning the outdoor coils whenever they seem dirty. You should also get professional heat pump maintenance every year.
Learn more about American Standard heat pumps
Efficiency
Up to 20 SEER
Cost
Unit Price: $2,495 (system); $7,810 (installed) Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
American Standard manufacturers top-rated heat pumps that are durable and reliable, with one Consumer Reports study finding that they required fewer repairs than all other brands.
Coleman offers award-winning heating and cooling solutions in both split system and packaged heat pump units for a variety of circumstances.
Echelon Split System Heat Pump (HC20)
Overview
Coleman claims that their advanced manufacturing processes and product testing give their heat pumps long-term performance.
Features
Learn more about Coleman heat pumps
Efficiency
Up to 20 SEER; ENERGY STAR qualified
Cost
Unit Price: About $1,610; Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
In general, customers say that their Coleman heat pumps provide energy efficiency, low noise levels and durable performance.
York can help you save money and energy by providing a high-efficiency heat pump to raise your comfort level.
Affinity Series YZV
Overview
York heat pumps include premium warranties that the company claims ensure years of dependability.
Features
Learn more about York heat pumps
Efficiency
Up to 20 SEER; ENERGY STAR qualified
Cost
Unit Price: $2,580 (unit); $6,050 (installed) Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
According to reviews, customers say that York heat pumps offer reliably impressive performance.
Talk to a heat pump expert for more information.
Amana provides premium heating and cooling products that provide increased energy efficiency at a fraction of the traditional cost. The brand offers quality and performance and has distinguished itself with some of the best warranties in the HVAC industry.
Amana AVZC20
Overview
Amana offers reliable and high efficient heat pump systems with quiet operation and advanced features.
Features
Learn more about Amana heat pumps
Efficiency
Up to 21 SEER; ENERGY STAR efficient
Cost
Unit Price: $2,600 to $4,599 Parts/Repair cost: $250 to $600 (average); $800 to $1,700 (high); $15 to $150 (low)
Reviews
Customers gave this Amana heat pump 37 five star reviews, with high ratings for features and quietness.
Average Cost: $3,250 ' $12,586
Like your home and needs, your HVAC project cost will be unique. Use the calculator to better estimate your investment.
Estimated Total
The average cost for a new HVAC system is $3,250 to $12,550, which includes equipment and labor fees for the installation of a central AC unit and gas furnace. The chosen HVAC brand, necessary ductwork repair, and your location will influence the project cost.
Find a local dealer
The best heat pump brands of include Goodman, Carrier, Lennox, Rheem and Trane, based on a number of factors.
What are the best heat pumps?
How do I choose the best heat pump for my home?
There are several factors you should consider when choosing your heat pump ' climate, types, energy efficiency, size and customer reviews.
Heat pumps are devices that transfer heat from one place to another. This system can be used to both heat or cool a home. Because heat pumps do not create heat, they generally use less energy than systems like furnaces.
What are heat pumps?
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Commercial Heat Pump Manufacturer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.