How Pros Actually Compare Brands (Not Just the Sticker Price)

Price matters, but it’s only one lever. Here’s the checklist most pros use when they help homeowners decide:

1. AFUE efficiency & fuel type: 80% vs. 90–98%+ AFUE changes lifetime gas spend.

2. Sizing & design: A correct Manual J load beats brand hype every time.

3. Install scope: Venting changes, duct fixes, electrical work, and permits can swing totals.

4. Reliability & parts access: Fewer repairs and local parts availability keep heat on in January.

5. Warranty terms: Parts, heat exchanger, and whether registration is required.

6. Controls: Smart thermostat compatibility and wiring (e.g., C-wire) for better scheduling.

If questions pop up, our Help Center covers install basics, returns, and support.

Premium Tier Costs (Carrier, Trane, Lennox): What You’re Paying For

Carrier typically installs between $2,882–$8,250 with strong warranties (often 10-year parts and 20-year heat exchanger on many models). Trane comes in around $2,490–$9,800, known for durable build and a long track record. Lennox ranges $2,870–$8,250, with top models reaching up to 98.7% AFUE. What do you actually get for the premium?

• Quieter operation and more consistent temperatures with variable-speed blowers and modulating gas valves.

• Better cold-weather comfort through tighter control at low fire (fewer swings).

• Longer warranty coverage and strong dealer networks for parts and service.

Scenario: a 2,200-sq-ft Minnesota home with older ductwork may lean premium for modulating heat and lower noise, especially with bedrooms near supply trunks. If you’re comparing top-tier furnaces, check financing options here: HVAC financing.

Mid-Range Costs (American Standard, Bryant, Rheem): Strong Value Plays

American Standard usually installs between $2,700–$8,500 and is widely regarded for reliability. Bryant, a sister brand to Carrier often runs $2,485–$9,500 and can be ~15–20% less than a comparable Carrier, with much of the same core tech. Rheem generally lands $2,480–$9,000 and offers solid 80–96% AFUE models, also manufacturing under the Ruud name.

Why mid-range works for many homes:

• Fewer bells/whistles, same core heat. You still get efficient, safe, steady heating.

• Good parts availability across the U.S.

• Meaningful savings versus premium brands, especially if your ducts are healthy and noise isn’t a big concern.

If you’re upgrading an older, 80% AFUE furnace in a moderate climate, a 95–96% AFUE mid-range unit can trim gas bills without paying for premium modulation. Want a pro sanity check on sizing? Visit our Design Center.

Budget-Friendly Costs (Goodman, Ruud): Smart Where It Counts

Goodman is often the lowest installed cost at roughly $1,900–$5,700 and backs select models with a lifetime heat-exchanger warranty. Ruud commonly installs between $2,500–$3,578 and is praised for durability and parts availability. Who should consider budget brands?

• Landlords and budget-minded homeowners who value quick heat, straightforward features, and easy repairs.

• Homes with good ducts and typical heating loads (no tricky airflow issues).

• Projects with tight timelines—these brands are widely stocked.

Budget doesn’t mean “bare minimum” if the load calculation is correct and the installer is meticulous. Spend the savings on duct sealing, a quality thermostat, or needed accessories: see accessories if your job scope requires them.

Efficiency 101: AFUE and the Real Cost Over 15–20 Years

AFUE tells you how much of your fuel becomes heat for the house. Today’s gas furnaces typically range from 80% to 98.7% AFUE. If you’re replacing a much older unit, jumping to 90%+ can cut heating bills by up to ~25% (actual savings depend on climate and gas rates). Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Colder climates: Higher AFUE pays back faster because you burn more fuel each winter.

• Milder climates: 80–92% AFUE might be perfectly sensible if your furnace runs less.

• Venting matters: Condensing furnaces (90%+) often use PVC and a condensate drain plan that goes into the install scope.

Jamie in Ohio swapped an 80% unit for a 96% AFUE furnace. With 900 heating hours/year and current gas prices, the upgrade penciled out in several winters—and delivered steadier room temps. Use our Sizing Guide to align capacity with efficiency.

The “Hidden” Installation Costs Pros Budget For

Beyond the equipment quote, expect a few line items that keep installs safe and to code:

• Permits & inspections: $100–$300

• Old furnace removal & disposal: $60–$500

• Ductwork modifications or sealing: $200–$1,000

• Electrical upgrades (e.g., new circuit, C-wire): $150–$800

• Emergency/after-hours premium: +20–50% over standard labor

These aren’t “gotchas”—they’re the reality of making a new system work well in an older home. A clean start helps warranty coverage, safety, and performance. If you get quotes that are wildly different, compare what’s included. When in doubt, ask the contractor to list scope line-by-line. Want a head start? Try Quote by Photo so our team can flag likely add-ons early.

Sizing Done Right: Why Manual J Load Calculations Matter

The #1 cause of comfort issues isn't the brand it’s the sizing. Undersized struggles on cold snaps; oversized short-cycles, wastes energy, and creates uneven rooms. A proper Manual J considers square footage and insulation, windows, ceiling height, infiltration, and your climate. Here’s how that plays out:

• A well-insulated 1,800-sq-ft ranch might need less heat than a drafty 1,400-sq-ft two-story.

• Window upgrades or added attic insulation can reduce the required BTUs and the equipment price.

• Duct condition (leaks, sizing, layout) affects final comfort as much as the furnace itself.

Before you pick a brand, get the load right. Use our Sizing Guide or connect with our Design Center for help dialing in capacity and airflow.