How much does a new HVAC system cost in 2026?

A new central AC + furnace replacement runs $7,000–$15,000 installed (~$5,000 for AC only, $4,500 for furnace only). High-efficiency variable-speed systems and heat pumps run $12,000–$22,000.

What's a good SEER2 rating?

The 2026 federal minimum is 14.3 SEER2 in northern states and 15.2 SEER2 in southern states. 16+ is energy-efficient, 18+ qualifies for many tax credits, and 20+ SEER2 is premium variable-speed territory.

Are heat pumps worth it?

Yes in most US climates - modern cold-climate heat pumps work down to -15°F and qualify for up to $2,000 federal tax credit plus state rebates. They cut heating costs 30–60% vs. electric resistance or older gas systems.

How long does an HVAC system last?

Furnaces last 15–20 years, AC units 12–17 years, and heat pumps 10–15 years. Annual maintenance is the single biggest factor - neglected systems fail at half the lifespan.

What should a proper HVAC quote include?

A proper written quote should include model numbers, SEER2/AFUE ratings, labor warranty length, and a Manual J load calculation. Avoid any contractor who skips the load calc.

Updated April 2026

Best HVAC Companiesof 2026

Side-by-side reviews of the most-installed central HVAC manufacturers - efficiency, warranties and price ranges.

5Pros
compared

Vetted &
insured

Editor
verified

?Quick Answer

Trane is the top HVAC brand in 2026 for reliability and resale value, while Carrier leads on inverter technology and noise levels. Lennox tops the chart for high-efficiency premium systems, Rheem offers the strongest mid-tier value, and Goodman is the budget-friendly choice with a strong 10-year parts warranty.

Top pick for HVAC

Trane

BEST FOR RELIABILITY

4.4(4.2k reviews)★ Trustpilot

Industry-leading reliability surveys for 5+ years running
Up to 12-year compressor warranty + 10-year parts
Variable-speed XV20i tops 22 SEER2
Largest installer network in the US

Get quote

Inventor of modern AC

Carrier

BEST FOR INVERTER & QUIET

4.3(3.7k reviews)★ Trustpilot

Infinity series with Greenspeed inverter - 26 SEER2
10-year parts limited warranty
Sound levels as low as 51 dBA
Cor smart thermostat included on premium tier

Get quote

Premium efficiency

Lennox

BEST FOR HIGHEST EFFICIENCY

4.2(2.9k reviews)★ Trustpilot

Signature Collection up to 28 SEER2 - industry leader
Most efficient residential AC ever sold (XC25)
10-year parts warranty + extended compressor
iComfort smart thermostat with humidity control

Get quote

Quiet and efficient

Rheem

BEST FOR MID-TIER VALUE

4.2(2.1k reviews)★ Trustpilot

EcoNet smart-home integration
Prestige series up to 20.5 SEER2
10-year limited warranty on parts
Often $1,000–$2,000 less than Trane/Carrier

Get quote

Best $/SEER2 ratio

Goodman

BEST FOR BEST BUDGET

4.0(1.7k reviews)★ Trustpilot

Premium 10-year parts + 10-year unit replacement warranty
Up to 18 SEER2 in mid-tier models
Owned by Daikin - same engineering muscle
Typically $1,500–$3,000 cheaper than premium brands

Get quote

HVAC Comparison Table

Side-by-side overview of every pro we reviewed.

Pro	Rating	Best For	Starting Price (installed)	Max SEER2	Warranty	Reliability
#1Trane	9.4/10	Reliability	From $7,500	Up to 22.0	10 yr parts / 12 yr compressor	Top-rated
Carrier	9.2/10	Inverter & quiet	From $7,800	Up to 26.0	10 yr parts	Top-rated
Lennox	8.9/10	Highest efficiency	From $9,500	Up to 28.0	10 yr parts	Strong
Rheem	8.7/10	Mid-tier value	From $6,500	Up to 20.5	10 yr parts	Strong
Goodman	8.3/10	Best budget	From $5,500	Up to 18.0	10 yr parts + unit replacement	Good