Efficiency, innovation, price and reliability - which furnace manufacturer delivers more of each? Find out in our head-to-head comparison of the country's two top furnace manufacturers: Carrier vs Lennox.
When it comes to choosing a furnace for your home, the battle often comes down to two heavyweights in the industry: Carrier and Lennox. Both brands boast a history of quality and innovation, but how do they stack up against each other in today's market?
The quest for efficiency in home heating systems is paramount, and both Carrier and Lennox step up to the plate with an impressive 98.0% AFUE rating on their top-of-the-line models. This means nearly all the energy consumed is directly converted into heating your home, ensuring that your comfort doesn't come at the expense of your wallet or the environment.
Lennox’s Signature SLPEYF model furnace introduces a variable speed inducer that twirls the air-fuel mixture for greater efficiency, while its secondary heat exchanger extracts additional heat from the combustion gas, a feature aimed at lowering fuel costs.
On the other hand, Carrier's Infinity 98 offers a modulating gas valve which pairs with a variable-speed blower motor, providing nuanced control over temperature and humidity, matching heating output to the precise needs of the home. This level of precision marks a win for Carrier in the innovation department.
Pricing is always a crucial consideration. While the prices may vary depending on the dealer, the infographic suggests that Carrier's Infinity 98 is generally less expensive than Lennox's comparable model. This price advantage gives Carrier the edge for budget-conscious consumers looking for top-tier efficiency and comfort.
In the realm of reliability, Carrier takes the lead once again. Lennox units, while generally robust, have been noted for higher replacement part costs and availability issues, which can be a significant inconvenience if a breakdown occurs. Carrier parts are readily available and affordable, reducing downtime and ensuring that your home remains cozy even in the peak of winter.
Taking all factors into account, Carrier emerges as the frontrunner in three out of the four categories assessed: innovation, price, and reliability. Lennox holds its own with equivalent efficiency, but when it comes to overall value and peace of mind, Carrier seems to have the upper hand.
Appleby Systems underscores this by offering free maintenance for a year on new Carrier furnace purchases, a vote of confidence in the brand's reliability and service quality.
When making your choice, consider these critical factors to ensure that your investment brings you the comfort and efficiency you deserve.