If you’re looking for new HVAC appliances for your home, you can find a ton of products making it overwhelming. There are many reputable brands and products with different styles and efficiencies. Rheem and Trane are two of the most popular HVAC manufacturers in the country. Let’s take a look at the differences between Rheem vs Trane.
Rheem manufactures packaged systems, water heaters, heat pumps, and furnaces, with Trane offering a similar product line to include air handlers. Both provide high quality products, though Rheem seems cheaper than Trane.
On top of that, you also have Ruud, which is a subsidiary of Rheem. The company uses both names for its systems, making it slightly confusing to some.
Before focusing on the appealing price of Rheem products, you should understand more about the companies. That way, you can make an informed decision.
When it comes down which brand you should choose; Rheem vs Trane, there is a lot to consider. Each brand offers something unique, so let’s get started with the comparisons.
A Basic Introduction to Air Conditioners and HVAC Systems
Each home uses an HVAC system of some kind. Whether replacing old equipment or building a new house, you want to install top-quality products with the features you desire. HVAC is an acronym, and it focuses on the heating, ventilation and air conditioning of your home.
The HVAC system must create the right thermal environment in the home so that you breathe well. Plus, the system keeps you comfortable in any season.
Every HVAC System Isn’t Equal
There are single and multi-stage systems, and the single system offers a furnace and air conditioning system. With multi-stage systems, you have multiple sources for heating and cooling the home. They’re typically energy-efficient and can save you money on your electricity bill.
Zoned systems are also available and set up the home for different thermostats so each area can be controlled separately. This system prevents hot/cold spots. Typically, they are excellent for saving money because you can heat or cool individual rooms to the right degree.
Heating systems also vary, and most of them are controlled by boilers or furnaces, though some allow you to install them under the floor.
Finally, there are various air conditioning systems, such as central systems and window SEER units. Central air is best in locations that get very hot.
You should also note that air conditioners are ranked for efficiency with the Season Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER).
The higher the SEER number, the more cost-effective the system is. It’s important to go with a product that has a SEER higher than 13.
Humidity Controls
It’s possible to control humidity levels with the HVAC system, too. This is helpful when areas are exceptionally wet or dry. These systems can keep the home at the recommended 50 percent relative humidity level.
Factors to Consider for Buying New HVAC Equipment
Here are a few important factors to ponder before getting a new HVAC system:
SEER Rating
The higher the unit’s SEER rating the more energy efficient it is.
Other Ratings
SEER isn’t the only way to rate HVAC equipment. You also have the EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio), which reflects the HVAC peak efficiency for the HVAC system.
There’s also the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) to measure how efficient your system is at cooling and producing heat.
The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) gives a percentage to measure how efficient boilers and furnaces are. For all of them, with a higher rating, there’s better efficiency.
Determine Right Size for System and Property
Each system is designed to work with a particular size of home. If it’s too large, it wastes energy, and a small system can minimize thermal comfort.
Consider Costs
The price of a cheaper model might not be ideal for your home. In fact, a more affordable model may require more inspections and repairs than an expensive one. Make sure to focus on installation and other maintenance variables when deciding on the amount you pay.
Brands
You can find many brands out there and various manufacturing companies for air conditioning products. Here are a few of the top options:
- Daikin
- American Standard
- Lennox
- Carrier Global
- Goodman
However, today’s topic focuses on the Rheem and Ruud products, as well as those from Trane.
Trane vs. Rheem – Heating Elements
How Do the Furnaces Compare?
Trane and Rheem both have more than 20 models.
Rheem offers propane-powered, natural gas, and oil furnaces and boasts of the lowest-emissions option in the industry. Many of they furnaces offer sensor technology to regulate heating and boost your efficiency. They also have the PlusOne Ignition option and diagnostics for troubleshooting.
On the other hand, Trane offers modulating furnaces and one- and two-stage furnace models. The top three from Trane range from 92 to 97 percent AFUE, which is higher than the Rheem brand. However, Rheem offers high-efficiency options, as well.
Furnace Costs
Rheem furnaces range in price anywhere from $875 to $1,500. Furnaces from Trane are varied in price with a low end of $1,800 and a high option at about $6,000.
The Winner
Rheem wins here because it offers cheaper units and very similar AFUE ratings. A unit from Rheem can provide the most value for the dollar.
Rheem and Trane – Cooling Elements
How Do the Air Conditioners Compare?
In the Rheem vs Trane debate, we find that Rheem offers a wide variety of air conditioners in one- and two-stage units with scroll compressors for more cost-effectiveness. Many of them use noise-dampening technology to keep them quiet while running.
Trane air conditioners offer high SEER numbers and often come with an ENERGY star rating with low noise levels. Therefore, air conditioning from Trane is more efficient, quiet, and better for the environment. Its models offer the best quality possible.
A unit from either of the brands is a good buy.
Air Conditioner Costs
Typically, Rheem air conditioners cost $1,000 to $2,400, while Trane air conditioner systems are between $6,000 and $10,000.
The Winner
Trane is the brand that wins here. With more noise-dampening technology and high ratings, it puts it above Rheem.
Rheem vs. Trane – Cooling and Heating Elements
How Do the Heat Pumps Compare?
Heat pumps can warm and cool the home by directing hot air. In summer, the heat pumps move the hot air inside the house to the outside. In winter, it reverses.
Rheem offers six heat pump models, but Trane has it beat with those numbers, providing 11 options. With that, Rheem’s pumps come in three-, two-, and one-stage operating systems.
Both manufacturers provide technology to increase efficiency. Five of the heat pumps they offer a scroll compressor to work efficiently. Trane also has pumps with a feature to adjust for dramatic temperature changes, called the Trane Climatuff Compressor.
In our Rheem vs Trane comparison, both offer a great heat pump to help with air conditioning and warming the home in winter.
Heat Pump Costs
Rheem heat pumps range in price between $1,200 to $2,200. Again, Traine is higher, with prices going from $4,800 to $10,000.
The Winner
We think it’s a tie, with Trane providing more variety but being more expensive.
How Do the Packaged Systems Compare?
Packaged systems are units that are made for smaller spaces to heat and cool homes. They’re ideal for properties that don’t have room for an air handler or furnace.
Rheem has 18 packaged systems, and some of them are two-stage with compressors.
Trane has four options: air conditioner, Earthwise hybrid dual fuel, heat pump, and gas-electric. With that said, the Rheem vs Trane comparison focuses on more than just amounts of products!
Packaged System Costs
Packaged systems from Rheem cost anywhere from $2,500 to $3,500, while Trane systems range anywhere from $3,300 to $6,000.
The Winner
There’s a tie here! Both have variable-speed options with similar abilities.
Air Quality
In our Rheem vs Trane debate, we must focus on air quality. Ruud offers more advanced filtration to reduce pollutants and dust as the air goes through. However, Trane offers similar air quality options. In fact, it has the Clean Effects feature, which got the certification as being asthma and allergy-friendly.
The Winner
Trane wins here! That certification program mark ensures that its air cleaners are great for homes.
Average Lifespan and Maintenance
Both manufacturers options have similar life expectancies between 15 and 20 years, but maintenance plays a huge part. Therefore, you should perform routine maintenance every year.
The Winner
They’re tied here because both are similar!
Trane and Rheem – Warranty
Rheem provides a limited parts warranty (10 years) on most of its products. However, there’s only a 5- to 10-year conditional unit replacement warranty for heat pumps.
Trane systems have a base limited warranty, which covers the components that break from defect for up to 20 years.
Conclusion
In the Rheem vs Trane option, both are similar manufacturers that do everything you need to keep your home comfortable. Regardless of the brand name you choose, you’re sure to do well for yourself.
However, if the price range is something you must focus on, Trane might not be the right choice. Though it’s high-quality, this company often has higher prices than other brands.
Regardless of the equipment and features you require, the Trane company is ideal and can be installed by various HVAC professionals.
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