Rheem vs. Trane: Which Is Right for You?

In today’s day in age, we have various HVAC manufacturers to choose from, including but not limited to Trane, Rheem, Carrier, American Standard, Amana, and more!

When choosing your next HVAC equipment brand, it’s vital to understand the differences between each brand, including

• Price
• Warranties
• Reliability
• Accessories & Controls
• Energy Efficiency

In this article, we will compare the brands Trane and Rheem and each of their benefits listed above. However, it's important to note that the HVAC contractor you hire to install your new heating and cooling system is more important than your chosen HVAC brand.  

Nevertheless, you still want to know all the bells and whistles you're getting with each brand, so without furniture ado, here is your ultimate comparison guide to Rheem and Trane when choosing your next HVAC unit(s).

Rheem vs. Trane: An Introduction

Both companies have succeeded in making their mark in the HVAC industry and have earned the trust of hundreds upon thousands of residential homeowners like yourself. However, the age-old question, “Which is the better brand, Rheem or Trane?” 

Before we get into the weeds of it all, it’s important to know a little background of each brand, its history, and where they are headed.

Rheem

Originally founded as “Rheem Manufacturing Company” in the small town of Emeryville, California, by two brothers, Richard, and Donald Rheem, in 1925. Initially, they manufactured steel drums and other metal products.  

Later, they decided to hit the ground running by investing in other business lines, such as shipping containers, bathroom fixtures, war equipment, and even musical instruments.

However, in 1930, production lines changed, and they began full-scale manufacturing of water heaters, boilers, and tanks. Then, after seeing the success of their water heaters, they saw the opportunity to meet the growing demand for heating and cooling units. Then, in the 1950s, Rheem began investing in HVAC products.

Since then, they have coined themselves “The New Degree of Comfort,” and have seven factories located in the Americas and distribute their products to over 75 countries!

Today, Rheem is known as one of the world's most recognized heating, cooling, and water heating brands.

Trane

Trane started in 1885 as a family-owned and operated plumbing business in La Crosse, Wisconsin. James Trane and his son Ruben developed a new low-pressure steam heating system.

Then in 1913, the family fully incorporated their new business name, “The Trane Company,” which we know today as “Trane.” Over the next century, Trane would improve the HVAC industry.

In 1984 American Standard acquired The Trane Company and launched the “American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning brand;” however, in 2007, American Standard Companies separated, which allowed Trane to focus on its core business, leadership, and HVAC services and solutions.

Trane furthered its transformation when Ingersoll Rand acquired it in 2008, which turned Trane (and Ingersoll Rand) into a multi-brand commercial manufacturing company that serves customers all over the world in diverse global markets. 

Today, Trane is a well-known household HVAC brand name that continues to drive HVAC technologies forward. They honor the legacy of those before them and build on it to make buildings safer, more affordable, and more energy-efficient.

Rheem vs. Trane: Price

Our HVAC systems are one of the most expensive home appliances a homeowner must invest in, especially since they are designed to keep our personal oasis comfortable.

Since our HVAC systems are one of the most crucial parts of our home's overall functionality and comfort, it’s a considerable investment.

When homeowners consider purchasing a new HVAC system, the first question is always, “How much does it cost?” Both Rheem and Trane offer entry-level, mid-range, and high-end product lines.

Before we move on, it’s important to note that other factors can impact your overall cost, such as:

• Size of the home
• Unit size
• Efficiency rating
• Difficulty of installation 

Now, let’s review both brands’ average costs for a furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, air handler unit, and product installation cost.

Rheem*

80% (Standard Efficiency) Furnace: $3,400-$5,500

90% (High Efficiency) Furnace: $4,000-$8,250

Air Conditioner: $5,170-$16,300

Heat Pump: $6,100-$17,600

Air Handler: $4,000-$9,200

Trane*

80% (Standard Efficiency) Furnace: $4,700-$7,370

90% (High Efficiency) Furnace: $6,600-$10,560

Air Conditioner: $5,500-$17,908

Heat Pump: $7,480-$17,820

Air Handler: $5,390-$9,240

*These prices are subject to change due to equipment availability and shifting marketing prices. Nevertheless, you'll want to contact your trusted HVAC contractor for exact prices.*

As you can see, both brands have different pricing for each type of system. However, typically Trane is more expensive and can be seen as a “luxury brand.” Rheem offers the same kind of systems but as a more budget-friendly option.

Related Content: How Much Does a New Furnace Replacement Cost in 2023?

                              Cost of an Air Conditioner in 2023: Replacing Your AC Unit

                              How Much Does a Heat Pump Cost to Replace in 2023?

Rheem vs. Trane: Warranties

An HVAC warranty is a written promise to the consumer from the manufacturer or brand that guarantees to the consumer that the manufacturer will replace or repair the system within a certain period.

Rheem and Trane manufacturers offer customers great warranty coverage for their new home investment; however, there are a few notable differences.

Rheem

Rheem offers customers two types of warranties; a Limited Warranty and the Protection Plus Extended Service Warranty.

Limited Warranty- typically a five- or ten-year warranty (determined by the HVAC product you purchase) in which Rheem will offer a replacement for any part or product that fails due to normal use or manufacturer defects. Product warranty registration is required to redeem any coverage.

To register your HVAC product or verify your warranty, follow the link to Rheem’s Product Warrant Information Page.

Protection Plus- is an extended warranty you can opt-in for after your limited warranty expires. This protection plan can help protect your home from unexpected and unaccounted repairs. Investing in Rheem’s Protection Plan Plus has other benefits, such as

●     Complete Coverage: gives parts and labor coverage on all mechanical and/or electrical failures.

●     One Call Convenience: when your unit requires a repair, one call and your Protection Plus Pro will get everything in order to fix your system.

●     Transferability: when you enroll in the Protection Plus Plan, you don’t have to worry about your warranty ending when/if you move. This plan allows homeowners to take their protection plans with them.

●     Trusted Service: upon your agreement, you will receive the expertise and service of a Rheem Protection Pro.

●     Budget Protection: Protects you from the unexpected.

Not to mention, on specific HVAC models (ex: heat exchangers), Rheem offers a 20-year warranty. This warranty is applicable 20 years after the effective date on systems installed in a residential home. 

Trane

Trane offers three types of warranties; Base Limited Warranty, Registered Limited Warranty, and an Optional Extended Warranty.

Base Limited Warranty- this type of warranty will automatically go into effect on all HVAC units that were never registered or if the unit is registered more than 60 days after installation. It typically lasts five years and covers failing parts caused during manufacturing; however, it will not cover labor costs.

Registered Limited Warranty- as long as you register your equipment within 60 days of installation. It will cover parts that might fail due to a manufacturer's defect but will not cover any labor costs from your chosen residential HVAC company.

Optional Extended Warranty- this is a warranty that you can purchase with your local dealer (like Fire & Ice). It will cover parts that might result in a system breakdown, and unlike the warranties above, it can cover the cost of labor. However, contact your local dealer to learn about their available options.

Both brands offer several warranties and options that fit any homeowner's budget. However, these warranties are subject to change, so contact your local HVAC dealer to ensure you are getting the best warranty for your investment.

Rheem vs. Trane: Reliability

A new HVAC system should average 10 to 15 years. Some factors that can increase or decrease the overall reliability of your system include:

●     Proper sizing

●     Installation

●     Maintenance

●     Usage 

According to US News, Rheem and Trane are tied at number five for the best HVAC brands of 2023 for performance and overall reliability. Regardless of your chosen HVAC brand, your HVAC system should last a minimum of 10-15 years.

On top of that, if you invest in proper care, installation, and maintenance, your residential HVAC systems can last 15+ years.

That said, when comparing Rheem and Trane's HVAC system's reliability, they are both similar. So, whichever brand you choose, the HVAC contractor you hire to install and maintain your heating and cooling system is MORE IMPORTANT than the brand.

Rheem vs. Trane: Accessories, Features, & Controls

When choosing the brand of your next home comfort system, it's important to know all of the bells and whistles that come with it. Trane and Rheem both have excellent add-ons, special features, and controls.

Let’s dive into each brand to compare.

Rheem

Rheem has several aspects that make it one of the top brands in the HVAC industry, such as its 360°+1 Philosophy, Easy-replacement Rheem Standard Pleated Filters, and the Rheem® EcoNet® Smart Thermostat.

360°+1 Philosophy

Every new Rheem product is made with the 360°+1 philosophy: performance, installability, serviceability, and integration. Each product is designed and manufactured with careful consideration at every checkpoint of the 360°+1 philosophy.

This philosophy ensures that Rheem provides products to their customers that meet all of their heating, cooling, and ventilation needs, plus one.

The plus one refers to Rheems commitment to going further than other HVAC brands. They strive to show the overall value of their products to the customer by using integration and communication across all their products.

Easy-Replacement Rheem Standard Pleated Filters

The Easy-Replacement Rheem Standard Pleated Filters are made specifically for Rheem by the filter company Flanders, the leading air filtration brand. 

Flanders also provides air filtration products for buildings in the aerospace, pharmaceutical, nuclear containment, and commercial industries. 

Each filter has an FPR (Furnace Performance Rating) for numbers 4-10. Below is an infographic that shows the FPR rating, whether the filter is good, better, best, or premium, and all of the particles each filter successfully catches to improve your home's indoor air quality.

Related Content: How Often Should Furnace Filters Be Changed?

Rheem® EcoNet® Smart Thermostat

This smart thermostat brings a whole new meaning to modern convenience. It is user-friendly, wi-fi enabled, and compatible with all Rheem smart heating and cooling equipment to maximize your home's energy efficiency while guaranteeing optimal comfort.

The Rheem® EcoNet® Smart Thermostat has several features, including increased energy savings and compatibility with Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant.

The EcoNet thermostat allows homeowners to have HVAC control from virtually anywhere via a smart device. You can see your active and air filter monitoring, humidity control, and personalized scheduling; in real time, located in one convenient location. 

Trane

Trane also has a few different aspects that make it its own brand in the HVAC industry, such as its Climatuff Compressor, Trane CleanEffects® Whole Home Air Cleaner, and the XL842 Thermostat.

Climatuff Compressor

The patented Trane Climatuff™ Compressor is the world's first successful heat pump compressor. Trane refers to it as “the heart” of their air conditioning units and heat pump systems.

It is the only compressor Trane uses in all of its residential systems and is known for its outstanding durability, low-level noise, and high energy efficiency.

Trane CleanEffects® Whole Home Air Cleaner

This air cleaner is asthma and allergy friendly and certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America or AAFA.

The CleanEffects® Whole Home Air Cleaner has proven through independent testing to remove more than 99% of the virus that causes COVID-19, and it can remove 99.9 percent of the flu virus.

It is also extremely effective at catching small particles (as small as 0.3 microns) that greatly impact your home's overall indoor air quality by reducing the number of impurities that can cause allergy and asthma symptoms. Symptoms include mold, mildew, dust, pet hair/dander, pollen, lint, cooking odors, and some types of bacteria and viruses.

XL842 Thermostat

According to the Trane website, this smart thermostat is their best bang for your buck. It has innovative features and user-friendly technology that will keep you, your home, and your loved ones comfortable all year round. The XL842 Trane thermostat has several features, including

●     Real-time Diagnostics- this smart thermostat comes equipped with Trane’s Diagnostics, but you can also opt-in for remote diagnostics. This feature allows your dealer to access real-time data and can alert them if there is a problem.

Not to mention, if you allow your dealer remote access to your thermostat, they can help troubleshoot problems without needing an in-person appointment.

●     Exceptional Comfort- the XL842 Trane thermostat is compatible with most traditional HVAC systems, which allows homeowners to get the Trane features without requiring a Trane air conditioner, gas furnace, or any other Trane systems.

On top of that, it can be used to control up to two IAQ products, like a humidifier, dehumidifier, or any other compatible air purifier.

●     Smart Connection & Control- this smart thermostat is equipped with a color touchscreen, a smart home hub accessible through any smart device, and available programming seven days a week. 

Both brands have unique accessories, features, and controls that could benefit any homeowner. Ultimately the choice between Rheem and Trane boils down to which product and brand make the most sense for you, your home, and your budget.

Rheem vs. Trane: Energy Efficiency

With today's technology, energy efficiency within your HVAC appliances is crucial. That said, Rheem and Trane are both making a positive impact towards the environment and our future.

Let’s compare each brand's commitment to energy efficiency through their sustainability and green initiatives.

Rheem

Rheem understands how big of an impact our heating and cooling systems have on our environment; because of this, they launched the “A Greater Degree of Good” campaign.

This campaign is Rheem’s promise and commitment to make the products they design and manufacture, the customers they serve, and the processes that drive us as individuals more energy efficient.

This bold approach to going green includes improving its products and processes to positively impact the environment. They also want to empower their customers and employees to live and work sustainably.

By 2025, Rheems goals for their environmental efforts include:

●     Degree of Innovation- Rheem plans on launching a line of HVAC and water heating products that reduces up to 50% of greenhouse gasses.

●     Degrees of Efficiency- They plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% and achieve zero waste in their global manufacturing operations.

●     Degrees of Leadership- Rheem plans on training 250,000 trade workers and influencers on sustainable products, installation, and recycling best practices.

Trane

Trane is a 2022 Green Builder Brand Leader, and they have a “Green Guide” on their website to help homeowners make daily environmentally conscious decisions. According to Trane, you could save up to $500 annually by making more efficient choices regarding your residential HVAC system.

Some of these “greener” choices include

• Using a programmable thermostat
• Take control and monitor your homes energy usage through the Trane Home App
• Consider investing in an electrical HVAC system
• Earn money back when purchasing an eco-friendly HVAC system. 

The guide also notes several ways to reduce energy usage throughout your home, such as controlling conditioned air with curtains and blinds, sealing cracks around doors or windows, investing in energy-efficient lighting, and using smart power strips.

You can also invest in a surge protector that will add an extra layer of protection to your new whole home investment.

Rheems energy efficiency initiatives focus more on their future plans for going green, whereas Trane's environmental efforts stem from what they can do in the present. In the end, both brands are making environmentally conscious decisions, which is a win for you and the environment.

What’s Next?

Well, there you have it! Now you know more and can compare Rheem and Trane products and understand their prices, warranties, overall reliability, accessories, and energy efficiency, which will help you decide which brand to purchase.

However, while this is a comparison between brands, it is important to note that the company you choose to install your HVAC system is MORE IMPORTANT than the brand of HVAC equipment you choose.

Because when it comes down to it, there are a lot of similarities between major HVAC brands. Sometimes there will be a “best” choice for a homeowner, but often you’ll have several good options. Knowing it’s being installed properly by a trusted expert means more than the exact model or brand you choose.

A successful and correct installation will last longer, have better energy efficiency, and provide homeowners with optimal comfort all year round. 

Schedule With Fire & Ice Today

If you live in Columbus, Ohio, or within our service area, we’d love to show you the difference between Fire & Ice and other local HVAC contractors.

We understand the importance of brand knowledge, choosing the right heating and cooling system, and finding a local HVAC contractor that fits you, your home, and your needs.

We'd love to hear from you if you have additional questions, comments, or concerns about HVAC brands and how to choose the best fit for you, your home, and your loved ones.

We look forward to making your day better!