Choosing an HVAC system can be intimidating with so many options available. Finding the right fit for your home involves a lot of factors and can affect your comfort, finances and general wellbeing. For homeowners in Des Moines, understanding the difference between Amana vs Rheem can help you make an informed decision focused on your priorities. Aspen Aire Heating and Cooling is providing this unbiased, feature-focused comparison of Amana vs Rheem HVAC systems, giving you the information you need to decide the best option for your home.
Brand Overview
Amana and Rheem both have deep, rich legacies dating back to the early 1900s. Founded in 1934, Amana is known for their reliable products that leverage affordability with durability. Rheem, founded in 1925, is similar in purpose but known for their innovation, wide product offerings and high efficiency. Core differences aside, both companies offer similar, high quality HVAC products ranging from gas furnaces and air conditioners to heat pumps, and ductless split units.
Energy Efficiency & Performance
When comparing energy efficiency and performance of Amana and Rheem HVAC equipment, it’s important to consider the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). These numbers indicate how efficient a unit is at heating or cooling. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling. The higher the HSPF, the more efficient the heating.
Many AC units or furnaces will use specific hardware to increase energy efficiency, boosting efficiency ratings. Amana’s AC units use a two-stage compressor and a two speed condenser fan motor to create an energy efficient system by using varying speeds during cool periods. On the other hand, Rheem products use a variable speed compressor along with EcoNet Smart Technology. Both of these features allow owners to precisely control temperatures and optimize home comfort while putting less stress on the AC system. As you can imagine, investing in a high efficiency air conditioner or furnace adds to the lifespan and can help you save money over time.
Reliability & Durability
Peace of mind is priceless, especially when it comes to keeping your home comfortable. Warranties from Amana and Rheem are quite different but each provides coverage and a commitment to high quality HVAC systems.
Amana Warranties and Construction
Amana typically provides a 10-year limited warranty on parts for all products. There are also lifetime replacement warranties for available or high-efficiency models with a high SEER rating. These warranties cover compressors, additional parts and heat pumps for AC units, furnaces and other equipment.
Rheem Warranties and Construction
Rheem offers comprehensive warranties with a shorter term for specific parts. Rheem provides both a 10-year conditional warranty on compressors for all units and a 10-year limited warranty on other parts. Based on the model and specific unit, Rheem also offers a 5 and 10-year unit replacement warranty.
Comfort Features & Smart Home Integration
In addition to their core features, Amana and Rheem both provide smart home integration for many of their products. Compatible thermostats like Nest Pro or Ecobee will work well with Amana products. Rheem products are compatible with a wider range of third party thermostats and Rheem’s own EcoNet Smart Thermostat. Generally speaking, Rheem products are compatible with a wider range of central air conditioners, furnaces and HVAC systems. However, Amana offers more specific integrations for the entire HVAC system.
In terms of noise levels, Amana products tend to be slightly louder but offer slightly higher energy efficiency. Rheem’s products on the other hand are typically quieter on average and they offer a wider selection of quiet units. Each company offers a variety of quieter options for homeowners prioritizing sound and comfort.
Air purification features are often optional additions for Amana products but are designed to remove allergens and pollutants. Rheem also offers a broad range of high efficiency models with features that use air purification and energy monitoring. This tracks the energy consumption while alerting owners to faults or inefficiencies.
Cost & Value
Breaking down cost, Amana and Rheem are closely priced. An upfront estimate places Amana products’ low cost product around the same price point as Rheem’s. Amana’s high cost products tend to be more expensive than Rheem. These estimates do not take into account installation costs, as that estimate depends on the contractor installing your unit. Nonetheless, choosing an energy efficient model from either brand can reduce your energy use by 50% and energy bill by 10-30%.
It is also important to understand how lifespan factors into long-term savings. On average, Amana products have a lifespan of 15-30 years and Rheem around 10-15 years. Amana products, while costing more initially may help homeowners save more over their unit’s lifespan through lower energy costs and repairs. Rheem, on the other hand, provides an affordable upfront cost, making installation and the initial price much more affordable.
For those in Des Moines looking to replace or upgrade their current HVAC system, consider looking for rebates and incentives on energy efficient systems. These may apply to Amana or Rheem products and further lower installation costs and overall price. Energy Star and MidAmerican Energy often have incentives available for homeowners. More information can be found through state websites and through the Department of Energy.
Amana vs. Rheem: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Home
Amana and Rheem are both excellent HVAC brands; each has distinct features. Amana is known for their durable units, impressive warranties and long-term reliability. However, Rheem provides affordable pricing, quieter performance, and allows greater smart home integration. Both brands are exceptional in their own right and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and home comfort needs. If you are in the Des Moines area and need personalized guidance on which HVAC brand to choose, contact Aspen Aire Heating and Cooling today for a free estimate.