HVAC
Average Cost: $2,480 - $9,000
This review covers Rheem gas furnaces in depth, including models, costs, key features, installation expectations, and how Rheem compares to other top furnace brands.
Our Verdict: Rheem is a smart choice for homeowners who want dependable heat, strong efficiency options, and good value. Prices trend mid-range, but the brand’s variable-speed comfort features, smart-thermostat compatibility, and broad dealer network make Rheem a safe, practical investment.
Before you choose a model, it helps to understand how Rheem is positioned and where it’s available. Founded in 1925, Rheem manufactures a full spread of heating and cooling products and remains a well-known name with nationwide dealer coverage. Its current gas furnace lineup spans 80 percent to high-efficiency condensing units above 95 percent AFUE, with single-stage, two-stage, and fully modulating options.
Rheem also sells air conditioners, heat pumps, packaged systems, and water heaters, but this article focuses on Rheem gas furnaces — the core choice for reliable, ducted home heating in cool and cold climates.
| Best For | Top Model | Cost Installed (typical) | Standout Feature | Warranty* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balanced efficiency, comfort, and value | Rheem R98MV | $3,800 to $9,000 | Modulating heat with variable-speed blower | 10-year parts; lifetime HX |
*Heat-exchanger (HX) lifetime on most high-efficiency models with registration; parts coverage typically 10 years when registered.
At Modernize, we love Rheem because it delivers reliable comfort without premium-brand price shock. We see consistent performance from the two-stage and modulating models, and we appreciate the brand’s variable-speed blowers that keep temperatures even and noise low.
We also like that Rheem furnaces play nicely with modern controls. Smart-thermostat compatibility and EcoNet-enabled models make it easy to fine-tune comfort and watch energy use — a win for homeowners who want set-and-forget efficiency.
Every brand has trade-offs. Here’s the quick, candid view so you can decide if Rheem fits your home and budget.
Pros
Cons
Rheem furnaces are available in a variety of efficiency levels and operating types, so homeowners can choose a system that matches their climate, budget, and comfort expectations. Rather than focusing on individual model numbers, here’s an overview of the main furnace categories Rheem provides:
Together, these categories give Rheem broad coverage — from budget-friendly basics to advanced comfort systems — ensuring homeowners can find an option that balances upfront cost with long-term performance.
Rheem’s best furnaces lineup includes systems that are designed to cover a range of homeowner needs, from basic single-stage units to advanced two-stage and modulating furnaces, so you can match your budget, comfort expectations, and climate demands with the right type of system.
Homeowners who choose Rheem often cite quiet operation, dependable heat, and fair value as their top positives. The most common negatives relate to installation quality — comfort and reliability suffer when furnaces are mis-sized or poorly installed. As with any HVAC brand, the contractor matters as much as the box.
“I’m a huge RHEEM fan. I’ve installed many dozens over the years and have yet to have any problems with them.” — Reddit Review
“I had a Ruud (same as Rheem) a few years ago and it was solid. My parents also had a Rheem heat pump unit. It all boils down to the installer any more.” — Reddit Review
A well-installed Rheem furnace typically lands in the $3,200 to $9,000 range depending on model, capacity, efficiency, and job complexity. Labor, materials, and any duct, gas, electrical, or venting upgrades affect the total. If you plan to stay in your home for several winters, a two-stage or modulating unit often returns its premium through lower gas bills and better comfort. The tables below reflect the average estimated costs for Rheem furnace installation and may vary based on a variety of factors. We always recommend discussing pricing with your contractor before making a decision.
| Rheem Model | Efficiency (AFUE) | Typical Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| R801T | 80% | $3,200 to $5,200 |
| R92T | 92% | $3,800 to $5,800 |
| R95T | 95% | $4,000 to $6,200 |
| R96V | up to 96% | $4,500 to $7,200 |
| R98MV | 97 to 98% | $5,500 to $9,000 |
| Region | Low End | High End | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| South | $3,200 | $6,500 | Lower labor rates; 80% and basic 90s common |
| Midwest | $3,600 | $7,500 | 95% to 96% two-stage popular |
| Northeast | $3,800 | $9,000 | Higher labor; modulating units common |
| West | $3,600 | $8,500 | Mix of 80% and high-efficiency depending on climate |
| State | R96V Two-Stage | R98MV Modulating |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | $4,300 to $6,400 | $5,200 to $8,200 |
| Illinois | $4,600 to $7,000 | $5,500 to $8,800 |
| New York | $4,800 to $7,200 | $5,800 to $9,000 |
| Florida | $3,800 to $6,000 | $5,000 to $7,800 |
| California | $4,500 to $7,100 | $5,600 to $8,700 |
| Home Size (approx.) | Typical Furnace Size | Installed Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1,200 sq ft | 40k to 60k BTU | $3,200 to $5,500 |
| 2,000 sq ft | 60k to 80k BTU | $4,000 to $7,200 |
| 3,000 sq ft | 80k to 100k+ BTU | $5,000 to $9,000 |
Choosing among the top furnace brands usually comes down to a balance of cost, comfort features, and installer availability. Rheem competes well in the value-to-comfort sweet spot — especially with the R96V two-stage and the R98MV modulating — while some rivals push slightly higher headline efficiencies or broader dealer networks.
Explore Our American Standard Furnace Review
Explore Our Carrier Furnace Review
Explore Our Goodman Furnace Review
Homeowners often ask similar questions before choosing a Rheem furnace. Below are clear, thorough answers to help you decide confidently.
A Rheem furnace typically lasts 15 to 20 years, and well-maintained high-end models can go longer. Annual professional tune-ups and regular filter changes are the best ways to protect performance and lifespan.
Most homeowners pay $3,200 to $9,000 installed. The model, capacity, and job complexity matter most: an R801T 80% unit is on the low end, an R98MV modulating system with venting or duct upgrades lands at the high end.
Yes. Rheem’s high-efficiency models reach up to 97 to 98% AFUE. Two-stage and modulating furnaces run longer on low fire, improving comfort while reducing fuel use compared to single-stage units.
Often, yes. R96V and R98MV models deliver quieter operation, steadier temperatures, and lower gas bills over time. If you live in a cold climate or value quiet comfort, the upgrade usually feels noticeable.
Many 95%+ AFUE Rheem furnaces qualify for utility rebates and occasional tax incentives where available. Your local contractor can confirm current programs and estimate savings.
In most cases, yes. Rheem furnaces work with major smart thermostats, and EcoNet-enabled models unlock advanced diagnostics and control when used with compatible devices.
If you want a reliable, quiet, and efficient furnace without paying a luxury premium, Rheem belongs on your shortlist. The R96V is an outstanding value for most homes, while the R98MV delivers top-tier comfort and fuel savings for cold climates and forever homes. With solid warranties, a broad dealer network, and straightforward model choices, Rheem furnaces make it easy to heat your home well — and worry less for years.
Looking for more than just one review? The Modernize Review Hub brings together detailed insights on AC, furnace, and heat pump brands, installers, and products all in one place. It’s the easiest way to compare your options side by side and get a clearer picture of what will work best for your home.
