Overview
We use a consistent, data-driven approach to evaluate contractors and products, focusing on technical performance, customer feedback, and long-term value. Our goal is to highlight what matters most for your project — quality, reliability, and dependable results — rather than upfront cost alone.
Our system is built on three principles:
- Consistency: Every provider and product is evaluated using the same structured framework.
- Transparency: Scoring criteria and weights are clearly defined for each project type and applied uniformly.
- Relevance: Ratings prioritize the factors that most impact homeowner outcomes.
Rather than relying on a single factor such as reviews or price, we combine several key elements to provide a complete, accurate assessment.
How We Evaluate
We build our ratings using a combination of objective data and real-world feedback, giving you a clear and accurate picture of each contractor or product.
Our evaluation considers:
- Verified credentials, certifications, and licensing
- Customer feedback across trusted review platforms
- Manufacturer specifications and technical performance data
- Business operations signals, such as responsiveness and availability
- Market presence, brand reputation, and longevity
Every data point is reviewed using a structured scoring system to ensure consistent results across all categories. Where applicable, we also consider real-world factors such as installation quality, local climate, and product durability over time, not just listed specifications.
Our Scoring Approach
Each contractor and product is scored across defined criteria on a standardized one-to-five scale.
Individual scores are weighted by their relative importance and combined into a final rating using the formula:
Final Score = Σ (Criterion Score × Criterion Weight)
We determine these weights by focusing on the factors that most impact homeowners. For example, installation quality is prioritized for contractors, while performance and efficiency are emphasized for products. We also compare each score against similar providers and products within the same category to ensure fair, meaningful comparisons.
How Star Ratings Are Calculated
We convert the final score into a five-star rating, making it easy to understand at a glance.
A higher star rating reflects stronger overall performance across key areas such as quality, customer satisfaction, efficiency, and long-term value.
- 4.75 to 5.00 Stars: Excellent
- 4.25 to 4.74 Stars: Very Good
- 3.50 to 4.24 Stars: Good
- 2.75 to 3.49 Stars: Fair
- 2.00 to 2.74 Stars: Poor
- Below 2.00 Stars: Very Poor
A five-star rating means a contractor or product is considered excellent relative to comparable options — not that it is perfect. Ratings are always evaluated within the same category.
HVAC Contractor Rating Methodology
We rate HVAC contractors by focusing on the factors that most affect system performance, installation quality, and long-term homeowner satisfaction. Given the complexity of HVAC systems, we place extra emphasis on technical qualifications, workmanship, and responsiveness, rather than surface-level details.
How We Evaluate HVAC Contractors
Below is a breakdown of each criterion and what we look for when assigning scores.
Licensing & Credentials (22%)
We verify whether contractors meet required licensing standards and maintain appropriate certifications, such as EPA 608 and industry-recognized credentials like NATE or manufacturer certifications. Contractors with advanced certifications and a strong compliance history score higher.
Customer Experience (20%)
Customer experience is measured using aggregated review data across multiple platforms. Scores reflect overall satisfaction trends, including the consistency, volume, and recency of feedback.
Responsiveness and Availability (15%)
We evaluate how quickly and reliably a contractor engages with customers, including response times, scheduling speed, and availability for urgent or emergency service.
Workmanship and Installation Quality (15%)
Proper installation significantly affects HVAC system performance and longevity. We look for contractors who follow best practices, size systems accurately, meet code requirements, and use proven installation methods. Contractors with strong design skills and consistent quality earn higher scores.
Pricing and Transparency (12%)
We assess how clearly contractors explain their pricing, including whether they provide written estimates, itemized quotes, and financing options. Contractors who are upfront and transparent, with little risk of surprise costs, earn the highest scores.
Reputation and Market Presence (8%)
We consider how long contractors have been in business, their presence in your community, and their overall reputation. Contractors with a strong local or regional track record earn higher scores.
Warranty and Post-Service Support (8%)
We evaluate both the length and quality of a contractor’s labor warranty, as well as their track record for follow-up service. Contractors offering longer warranties and reliable post-installation support receive higher scores.
Scoring Philosophy
Our HVAC contractor ratings are designed to reflect real-world outcomes, not just what’s promised on paper. All scores are assigned using standardized definitions and evaluated relative to comparable contractors within the same market. Contractors who bring together strong credentials, reliable installation quality, and responsive service earn the highest ratings. Providers with gaps in licensing, inconsistent workmanship, or poor communication receive lower scores, even if their prices are competitive.
HVAC Products & Brands Rating Methodology
Modernize evaluates HVAC products and brands based on performance, efficiency, durability, and long-term value. While contractor ratings focus on service and installation, our product ratings emphasize engineering quality and real-world system performance over time, not just specifications.
How We Evaluate HVAC Products
Below is a breakdown of each criterion and what we look for when assigning scores.
Performance and Efficiency (22%)
We use system-specific metrics to evaluate performance so you can compare different types of HVAC equipment fairly. Depending on the system, this may include:
- Air conditioners: seasonal energy efficiency ratio 2 (SEER2), energy efficiency ratio 2 (EER2), compressor type (single-stage, two-stage, variable-speed)
- Furnaces: annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), staging, airflow control
- Heat pumps: SEER2, heating seasonal performance factor 2 (HSPF2), cold-climate performance
- Boilers: AFUE, condensing capability, modulation
Systems that deliver consistent comfort, strong efficiency, and reliable operation in real homes, not just in lab tests, receive higher scores.
Warranty Coverage (18%)
We look at how long and how comprehensive the manufacturer’s warranty is, including coverage duration for major components, ease of claims and registration requirements, and the brand’s reputation for honoring warranties. Products with clear, easy-to-use warranties and a strong track record of support receive the highest scores.
Durability and Build Quality (15%)
We assess durability based on the quality of system materials and components, including compressors, heat exchangers, coils, and overall construction. Higher scores go to systems with proven long-term reliability, reinforced or premium components, and a strong performance history in the field.
Value and Pricing (12%)
We assess value by looking at how cost, performance, and expected lifespan work together. Products that offer strong efficiency, durability, and long-term energy savings relative to their price receive higher scores than more expensive, lower-performing options.
Brand Reputation and Support (12%)
We evaluate the strength of the manufacturer’s service network, parts availability, and industry reputation. Brands with wide service coverage, strong installer relationships, and consistent reliability signals receive higher scores.
Climate and Regional Suitability (11%)
HVAC performance can vary considerably depending on your local climate. We check how well systems work in different regions, including extreme heat or humidity, cold-weather heating performance, and seasonal efficiency consistency. Products proven to perform well in demanding climates receive higher scores.
Installation Compatibility and Ease (10%)
Even high-quality systems may underperform if they are difficult to install correctly. We assess compatibility with common residential configurations, flexibility across installation scenarios, and familiarity among installers. Products that are widely supported and easy for installers to set up correctly receive higher scores.
Scoring Philosophy
Our HVAC product ratings are designed to show homeowners what to expect in terms of comfort, operating costs, reliability, and system longevity. We use consistent scoring criteria for all products and compare them to similar systems within their category, ensuring fair and meaningful ratings for any HVAC type. Products that offer high efficiency, durable construction, and strong warranty support earn the highest ratings. Systems that only meet basic requirements or lack long-term reliability receive lower scores.
Windows Contractor Rating Methodology
We evaluate window contractors by focusing on precise installation, energy performance, and long-term durability. While window quality is important, poor installation can cause air leaks, water issues, and reduced efficiency. That’s why we place the most weight on workmanship, installation quality, credentials, and customer experience.
How We Evaluate Windows Contractors
Below is a breakdown of each criterion and what we look for when assigning scores.
Workmanship and Installation Quality (22%)
Installation quality is the primary factor in window performance. We verify that contractors follow best practices for sealing, flashing, and fit, and deliver consistent results across projects. Contractors who install windows precisely, have few callbacks, and use effective sealing methods receive the highest scores.
Licensing and Credentials (19%)
We verify that contractors hold the required licenses, insurance, and relevant certifications. Higher scores go to contractors with manufacturer certifications (such as Andersen or Pella), lead-safe certification where applicable, and clear, verifiable credential documentation.
Customer Experience (18%)
Customer experience scores are based on reviews from multiple trusted platforms, considering overall satisfaction, consistency, and reliability. Higher scores indicate strong average ratings, consistent positive feedback, and minimal recurring complaints.
Pricing and Transparency (15%)
We evaluate how clearly contractors communicate pricing, including written estimates, itemized quotes, and clear details about the scope of work. Contractors who are fully transparent about pricing and avoid unexpected costs receive the highest scores.
Responsiveness and Availability (10%)
Responsiveness refers to how quickly and reliably a contractor communicates and schedules projects. We consider response times to inquiries, scheduling timelines, and communication clarity throughout the project. Contractors who respond promptly and keep clients informed earn higher scores.
Reputation and Market Presence (8%)
We look at how established a contractor is in your area, including how long they have been in business, their local presence, and overall visibility. Contractors with a strong community reputation and consistent market presence receive higher scores.
Warranty and Post-Service Support (8%)
We evaluate both the strength of installation warranties and the contractor’s track record for post-installation service. Higher scores go to contractors offering longer installation warranties, clear service processes, and reliable follow-through on warranty claims.
Scoring Philosophy
Our window contractor ratings are designed to reflect long-term results, not just initial impressions. Contractors who deliver precise installations, hold strong credentials, and keep customers satisfied earn the highest ratings. Providers with inconsistent workmanship, unclear pricing, or poor communication receive lower scores.
Windows Products & Brands Rating Methodology
Unlike contractor ratings, which focus on installation and service, our window product and brand ratings center on material quality, thermal performance, and long-term value. We prioritize how windows perform over time in different climates and conditions, not just how they are marketed.
How We Evaluate Windows Products
Below is a breakdown of each criterion and what we look for when assigning scores.
Performance and Efficiency (22%)
We evaluate performance using key building science metrics, including U-factor (insulation performance), solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), air leakage, and ENERGY STAR certification. Windows that provide strong insulation, controlled solar gain, and minimal air leakage receive higher scores, as these factors directly influence comfort and energy savings.
Durability and Build Quality (20%)
Durability reflects the materials, construction quality, and long-term reliability of the window. We assess frame materials (vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, composite), seal integrity and hardware quality, and resistance to warping, moisture, and wear over time. Products with reinforced frames and high-quality components receive the highest scores.
Warranty Coverage (16%)
We evaluate the strength and usability of manufacturer warranties, including coverage duration and terms, transferability, and the ease of filing claims and accessing customer support. Windows with lifetime or long-term, non-prorated warranties and strong claims support receive higher scores.
Value and Pricing (14%)
We assess value by evaluating how well a product balances performance, durability, and cost. Windows with strong energy efficiency relative to price, a long lifespan with minimal maintenance, and a meaningful return on investment through energy savings receive higher scores.
Brand Reputation (12%)
We evaluate brand strength based on market recognition and longevity, installer and contractor sentiment, and consistency of product quality across lines. Established brands with strong reputations and reliable product performance score higher.
Installation Compatibility and Ease (8%)
We assess product adaptability across various installation scenarios, including retrofit and new construction. Windows that are widely compatible, installer-friendly, and supported by clear installation standards receive higher scores.
Climate and Regional Suitability (8%)
Window performance can vary by climate. We assess how well products are suited for specific environmental conditions, such as hot climates requiring low SHGC, cold climates requiring low U-factor, and mixed climates requiring balanced performance. Products designed for strong performance in specific regions receive higher scores.
Scoring Philosophy
Our window product ratings are designed to reflect real-world performance in your home, including energy efficiency, durability, and long-term value. Products that combine strong thermal performance, durable construction, and reliable warranties earn higher scores. Windows with weaker materials, limited efficiency, or poor long-term performance receive lower scores.
Flooring Contractor/Installer Rating Methodology
When we rate flooring contractors, we look closely at the things that matter most for a successful installation and long-term satisfaction in your home. Because flooring comes in so many types, from hardwood and tile to luxury vinyl plank and carpet, we focus on installation skill, proper licensing, and quality workmanship. These factors have the biggest impact on how your new floors will look and last, so we prioritize them over less important details.
How We Evaluate Flooring Contractors
Here’s how we break down each area we consider when scoring flooring contractors.
Licensing & Credentials (22%)
We check that contractors have all the right state and local licenses, carry proper insurance, and hold important trade certifications. For flooring, this can include manufacturer-approved installer credentials for hardwood or tile, lead-safe certification when needed, and proof of OSHA safety training. Contractors who go above and beyond with their credentials and have a strong record of following the rules earn higher marks.
Customer Experience (20%)
We measure customer experience by looking at reviews from several trusted sources. We pay attention to how satisfied homeowners are overall, how recent the feedback is, and whether positive results are consistent across different types of flooring projects. Contractors with strong, steady ratings and happy customers across the board score higher.
Workmanship & Installation Quality (18%)
A quality installation makes all the difference in how your floors look and hold up over time. We look for contractors who know how to prepare subfloors, lay out patterns, place seams, install moisture barriers, and finish edges and transitions. Those who consistently deliver precise work, have few callbacks, and follow manufacturer guidelines get top scores.
Responsiveness & Availability (12%)
We consider how quickly and reliably contractors respond to homeowners, from answering questions to scheduling appointments and starting projects. Clear communication, setting expectations early, and following through on promises all help contractors earn higher scores.
Pricing & Transparency (12%)
We look at how clearly contractors explain their pricing. This includes providing written estimates, breaking down labor and material costs, and outlining exactly what’s included in the project. Contractors who are upfront about costs, help you avoid surprises, and offer financing when needed receive the best scores.
Reputation & Market Presence (8%)
We look at how long contractors have served your area, their reputation with local homeowners, and their standing in the flooring industry. Contractors with a proven track record, good relationships with suppliers, and a strong presence in the community score higher.
Warranty & Post-Service Support (8%)
We check both how long a contractor’s labor warranty lasts and how well they handle follow-up service. Contractors who offer longer warranties, make it easy to get help if something goes wrong, and provide dependable support after installation earn higher marks.
Flooring Retailers
Criteria & Weights
- Product Selection & Brand Quality (25%) — Breadth and quality tier of flooring brands carried; variety across flooring types (hardwood, LVP, laminate, tile, carpet); availability of exclusive or proprietary brands
- Pricing & Value (20%) — Competitive per-square-foot pricing, transparency of total project cost, frequency and quality of promotions, price-match policies
- Customer Experience & Service (18%) — In-store or in-home consultation quality, staff product knowledge, responsiveness to inquiries, and ease of the shopping process
- Installation Services (15%) — Availability, quality, and consistency of professional installation; vetting of installers; accountability for post-installation issues
- Warranty & Return Policy (12%) — Product return windows, claim process ease, accountability when products underperform, and whether warranty support routes through the retailer or directly to the manufacturer
- Availability & Accessibility (10%) — Number of locations, online ordering capability, delivery options, in-stock inventory reliability
- Brand Reputation & Trust (%) — Consumer trust scores, BBB ratings, history of complaints or legal issues, and overall brand standing in the market
Scoring Philosophy
Our flooring contractor ratings are built to show you what to expect in real homes, not just what’s promised in brochures. We use clear, consistent criteria and compare contractors to others in your local area for a fair and meaningful score.
Contractors who bring together strong credentials, skilled installation, and responsive service earn our highest ratings. On the other hand, those with missing licenses, uneven workmanship, or poor communication will see lower scores, even if their prices seem appealing.
Flooring Products & Brands Rating Methodology
We evaluate flooring products and brands by looking at how well the materials perform, how durable they are, how easy they are to maintain, and the value they offer over time. While our contractor ratings focus on installation and service, our product ratings highlight real-world quality and performance across all types of flooring, not just what’s listed in the manufacturer’s specs.
How We Evaluate Flooring Products
Here’s how we break down each factor when scoring flooring products.
Durability & Material Quality (22%)
We judge durability by looking at how the flooring is made, how thick the wear layer is, and how well it holds up in real homes. We adjust our evaluation for each flooring type so you get a fair comparison.
- Hardwood: species hardness (Janka rating), finish quality, and solid vs. engineered construction
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) / luxury vinyl tile (LVT): wear layer thickness (mil rating), core type (WPC, SPC, or standard), and overall rigidity
- Laminate: AC rating (Abrasion Criteria), HDF core density, and moisture-resistant construction
- Tile (ceramic & porcelain): PEI hardness rating, water absorption classification, and glaze quality
- Carpet: fiber type (nylon, polyester, wool), pile weight, and face weight
Flooring that stands up to years of use, has a solid construction, and a strong track record in real homes earns higher scores.
Performance & Ease of Maintenance (20%)
We look at how flooring holds up to daily life, including how well it resists scratches, dents, moisture, and stains, and how easy it is to clean and care for. We adjust our performance checks for each type of flooring.
- Hardwood: surface finish hardness, refinishability, and moisture response
- LVP/LVT: waterproof core ratings, surface texture durability, and cleaning requirements
- Laminate: water resistance ratings, scratch resistance, and susceptibility to swelling
- Tile: grout requirements, slip resistance (DCOF rating), and surface porosity
- Carpet: stain treatment technology, fiber resilience, and ease of deep cleaning
Flooring that keeps looking good with little effort and stands up to busy households earns higher marks.
Warranty Coverage (18%)
We check how long the manufacturer’s warranty lasts and what it covers, including wear, finish, and structure. We also look at how easy it is to make a claim and whether the brand stands behind its promises. Flooring with clear, transferable warranties and a strong support history earns top marks.
Value & Pricing (14%)
We judge value by how well a flooring product balances quality, durability, and price. Flooring that offers strong materials, lasts a long time, and needs little upkeep for the cost will score higher than pricier options that don’t perform as well.
Brand Reputation & Support (12%)
We look at how easy it is to find a brand’s products, how well they support installers, and their reputation in the industry. Brands that are widely available, offer good support to contractors, deliver consistent quality, and provide helpful customer service earn higher marks.
Installation Compatibility & Ease (8%)
Even the best flooring can fall short if it’s hard to install. We check if products work with common subfloors, offer easy installation options like click-lock or floating floors, and are familiar to most installers. Flooring that’s easy to work with and fits a variety of rooms and subfloors earns higher scores.
Climate & Regional Suitability (6%)
How well flooring performs can depend a lot on your local climate. We look at how products handle things like humidity, temperature changes, and moisture. Flooring designed for specific conditions, like waterproof cores for humid areas or stable construction for places with big temperature swings, earns higher marks.
Scoring Philosophy
Our flooring product ratings are built to help you understand what to expect for durability, upkeep, and long-term value in your own home. We use the same scoring standards for every product and compare each one to similar flooring in its category, so you get a fair and useful rating whether you’re looking at hardwood, LVP, laminate, tile, or carpet.
Flooring that’s built to last, comes with a strong warranty, and is easy to care for earns our highest ratings. Products with weaker materials, less warranty coverage, or disappointing real-world results will score lower.
Foundation & Basement Waterproofing Contractor Rating Methodology
When we rate foundation and basement waterproofing companies, we look at the factors that matter most for your home’s safety, moisture control, and long-term protection. Since issues in this area can get worse without warning and cost a lot to fix, we put extra emphasis on technical credentials, accurate diagnosis, and strong warranties compared to other home improvement categories.
How We Evaluate Foundation & Basement Waterproofing Contractors
Here’s how we score foundation and waterproofing contractors in each area.
Licensing & Credentials (22%)
We check that contractors have the right state and local licenses, carry proper insurance, and hold relevant certifications. For foundation work, we look for credentials from providers like Earth Contact Products (ECP), Supportworks, or the Helical Pier Institute. For waterproofing, we look for Basement Health Association (BHA) membership or Basement Systems network affiliation. Contractors with specialized credentials and a clean record score higher.
Workmanship & Technical Expertise (20%)
This work needs an accurate diagnosis before repairs start. We rate contractors on how well they find the real cause of foundation movement or water leaks, recommend the right solutions, and carry out repairs like pier installation, wall anchoring, interior drainage, and membrane application according to manufacturer and engineering standards. Contractors who don’t oversell, do the job right the first time, and have few callbacks get higher scores.
Customer Experience (18%)
We measure customer experience by checking reviews from trusted sources. We look at overall satisfaction, how recent the feedback is, and whether results are consistent across different types of projects. In this category, we also look for patterns in long-term repair success and how contractors handle issues after the work is done.
Warranty & Post-Service Support (15%)
Warranty quality is especially important here because foundation and waterproofing problems can take time to show up and are expensive to fix. We check how long the warranty lasts, if it can be transferred to a new homeowner, what it covers, and how well the contractor honors claims. Transferable warranties are a big plus for resale value. Contractors with long, clear, transferable warranties and a good record for follow-through get the highest scores.
Pricing & Transparency (10%)
We check if contractors give written, detailed estimates that list labor, materials, and permit costs separately. Contractors who offer different solution options, explain the pros and cons honestly, and avoid high-pressure sales tactics get higher scores.
Responsiveness & Availability (8%)
We look at how quickly and reliably contractors respond to homeowners from the first contact to the end of the project. Since foundation and water problems often need urgent attention, we also check if contractors can schedule assessments soon without long wait times.
Reputation & Market Presence (7%)
We look at how long contractors have been in business, their reputation in the local area, and how they are viewed by homeowners and industry peers. Contractors with a strong local track record and ties to respected industry groups get higher scores.
Scoring Philosophy
Our contractor ratings for foundation and basement waterproofing focus on long-term results, not just first impressions. Since this work affects your home’s structure and safety, we set higher standards for credentials and warranty quality than in other categories.
Contractors who have proper licenses, diagnose problems accurately, do quality work, and provide reliable support after the job earn our highest ratings. Those who lack licenses, oversell repairs, or don’t honor warranties get lower scores, even if their prices seem good.
Foundation & Basement Waterproofing Products & Brands Rating Methodology
Modernize rates foundation and basement waterproofing products based on how well they manage water, their durability, and their long-term reliability. While contractor ratings focus on installation and service, our product ratings look at engineering quality and real-world performance over time, not just what the manufacturer claims.
This framework includes all types of products used for foundation protection and basement waterproofing, such as sump pumps, interior drainage systems, exterior waterproofing membranes, crack repair materials, vapor barriers, and crawl space encapsulation products.
How We Evaluate Foundation & Basement Waterproofing Products
Here’s what we look for in each area when we score products.
Performance & Water Management Effectiveness (25%)
Performance is the most important factor for below-grade waterproofing products because problems like water leaks, mold, or structural damage are serious and expensive to fix. We judge performance based on criteria for each product type. For sump pumps, we look at horsepower, gallons-per-hour (GPH) at different heights, switch reliability, and backup power. For membranes, we check hydrostatic pressure resistance and if they meet ASTM standards. For crack repair materials, we look at strength, adhesion, and flexibility after curing. Products that consistently manage water well in real conditions get higher scores.
Durability & Build Quality (20%)
Below-grade environments are tough. Products need to handle constant moisture, sediment, temperature changes, and debris without breaking down. For sump pumps, we check the motor housing material, impeller type, corrosion resistance, and thermal overload protection. For drainage systems, we look at resistance to root intrusion and mineral buildup. For membranes and barriers, we check puncture resistance and how well they perform through freeze-thaw cycles. Products made with high-quality materials and a strong track record get higher scores.
Warranty Coverage (18%)
We check how long the manufacturer’s warranty lasts, how much it covers, if it can be transferred to future homeowners, and how well the brand honors claims. Products with long, transferable, clear warranties and good claims support get the highest scores.
Value & Pricing (14%)
We judge value by looking at how a product’s price, expected lifespan, and real-world performance compare. A cheaper product that needs early replacement or doesn’t control moisture well is a worse value than a more expensive system that works reliably for years. Products that offer strong long-term protection for their price get higher scores.
Brand Reputation & Support (12%)
We look at the manufacturer’s professional network, how easy it is to get replacement parts, and their reputation in the industry. For waterproofing products, this means checking the size of the authorized installer network, availability of parts like sump pump motors, switches, and battery backups, and whether the products meet standards like UL listing, NSF certification, IAPMO, and ASTM. Brands with strong support and a reliable track record get higher scores.
Installation Compatibility & Ease (6%)
Even the best products can fail if they are hard to install in typical homes. We check if products fit standard sump pit sizes, work with common drainage layouts, and suit usual subfloor and foundation wall conditions. Products that most contractors know well and that come with clear installation instructions get higher scores.
Climate & Regional Suitability (5%)
Product performance can change depending on local conditions. We check how well products handle high water tables, heavy clay soils with lots of pressure, freeze-thaw cycles in cold areas, and high humidity. Products designed for tough regional conditions get higher scores.
Scoring Philosophy
Our product ratings for foundation and basement waterproofing help homeowners know what to expect for long-term water control, reliability, and protection. We use the same criteria for all products and compare them to others in their category, whether it’s a sump pump, drainage channel, exterior membrane, or crack repair material. Products that perform well, have strong warranties, and are built to last get the highest ratings. Systems that just meet the basics or tend to fail early get lower scores.