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Best Heat Pump Brands of 2025

Which brands make the best heat pumps? Here are our top picks.
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Heat pump installation is a major investment for homeowners, whether you’re replacing an aging system or upgrading for efficiency. With many brands offering innovative solutions, today’s heat pumps provide dependable heating and cooling while helping reduce energy costs.

The best heat pump brands typically range from $3,500 to $12,500 installed, depending on system size (1.5 to 5 tons), efficiency rating (SEER2/HSPF2), features, and local labor. Choose based on your priorities: energy savings, quiet operation, warranty, and total project budget.

  • Best for Budgets: Payne, Amana, Heil
  • Premium Performance: Carrier, Trane, Lennox
  • Nationwide Availability: Rheem, Bryant, American Standard
  • Quiet Operation: Lennox, Armstrong Air
  • Smart Features: Carrier, Trane

To find your best heat pump match, align system size and efficiency rating to your home’s heating and cooling needs, check ENERGY STAR® ratings for your climate zone, compare warranties by series, and get 2 to 3 local quotes to confirm installed pricing.

Best Brands at a Glance

Best Heat Pump Brands

To determine the best heat pumps, we evaluated cost, efficiency (SEER2 ratings), features, warranties, expected lifespan, and overall value. We also considered brand reputation and customer satisfaction to ensure our recommendations reflect real-world performance.
  1. Carrier
  2. Lennox
  3. Trane
  4. American Standard
  5. Bryant
  6. Rheem
  7. Amana
  8. Armstrong Air
  9. Heil
  10. Payne
1

Carrier Heat Pumps

5/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $5,500 to $12,500
Best For: High-Efficiency Performance

What We Love

Carrier is considered one of the most trusted HVAC names, with over 100 years of innovation in heating and cooling. The company pioneered many modern HVAC technologies and continues to lead with its Infinity® line. Carrier is especially recognized for energy efficiency, whisper-quiet performance, and advanced smart controls. Homeowners who want the latest features and excellent warranty coverage often choose Carrier despite the higher cost.

Cost Information

Carrier heat pumps range in price depending on the series, capacity, and installation complexity.

  • Comfort Series: $5,500 to $8,500
  • Performance Series: $7,000 to $10,500
  • Infinity Series: $9,000 to $12,500+

Installation labor typically adds $1,500 to $3,500 depending on system size and regional rates. Prices are generally higher in large metro areas, while rural locations may see lower labor costs.

Best Model

The Infinity® 24 with Greenspeed Intelligence is Carrier’s top model, with up to 24 SEER2 efficiency, variable-speed compressor technology, and advanced climate control that adapts in real-time. It’s ENERGY STAR® certified and includes smart home integration, making it ideal for homeowners who want maximum comfort and energy savings.

Industry-leading efficiency
Wide model selection
Strong warranties
Higher upfront cost
Complex installation
Limited budget options
2

Lennox Heat Pumps

5/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $6,000 to $12,000
Best For: Energy-Conscious Homeowners

What We Love

Lennox is famous for its cutting-edge efficiency and quiet operation. The brand has earned repeated ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient awards and is often chosen by homeowners who prioritize environmental impact. Lennox units also use proprietary SilentComfort™ technology, making them among the quietest in the industry. While more expensive, Lennox appeals to buyers who want premium features and long-term energy savings.

Cost Information

Lennox heat pump costs vary by series and model efficiency.

  • Merit Series: $6,000 to $8,500
  • Elite Series: $7,500 to $10,500
  • Signature Series: $9,000 to $12,000+

Professional installation typically adds $1,500 to $3,500, with higher labor costs in urban regions. Lennox units may cost more to service or repair because of proprietary parts, which is worth factoring into lifetime ownership costs.

Best Model

The SL25XPV is Lennox’s flagship heat pump, delivering up to 24 SEER2 efficiency with variable-capacity operation and sound levels as low as 58 dB. It’s one of the quietest and most efficient models available today, making it an ideal premium choice.

Highest efficiency ratings
Premium technology
Very quiet operation
Expensive repairs
Higher upfront cost
Availability varies by dealer
3

Trane Heat Pumps

4.5/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $6,000 to $12,000
Best For: Long-Term Durability

What We Love

Trane has built its reputation on rugged reliability. Each unit undergoes extensive testing in extreme conditions to ensure it can handle decades of use. The company’s long-standing “It’s Hard to Stop a Trane®” slogan reflects its focus on durability. Homeowners who want a dependable system that can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance often choose Trane.

Cost Information

Trane heat pump pricing depends on efficiency and features.

  • XR Series: $6,000 to $8,500
  • XL Series: $7,500 to $10,500
  • XV Series: $9,000 to $12,000+

Installation typically adds $1,500 to $3,500. Pricing is on the higher side for parts and service, so long-term maintenance costs may be more than other brands.

Best Model

The XV20i TruComfort™ Variable Speed heat pump offers up to 21 SEER2, humidity control, and ultra-quiet operation. It maintains consistent temperatures by adjusting output in tiny increments, making it one of the most reliable and comfortable systems on the market.

Extremely durable build
Consistent performance
Strong dealer network
Higher cost
Fewer budget models
Replacement parts expensive
4

American Standard Heat Pumps

4.5/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $5,500 to $11,500
Best For: Reliable Performance

What We Love

American Standard is owned by the same parent company as Trane and shares much of its engineering. It’s known for dependable systems that balance performance and cost, making it a great choice for homeowners who want solid quality without going full premium. American Standard also has a strong service network, which helps with long-term support and parts availability.

Cost Information

American Standard pricing depends on whether you choose entry-level, mid-range, or premium models.

  • Silver Series: $5,500 to $8,500
  • Gold Series: $7,000 to $10,500
  • Platinum Series: $8,500 to $11,500+

Professional installation adds $1,500 to $3,000. For many buyers, American Standard offers the sweet spot between premium-level durability and mid-range pricing.

Best Model

The Platinum 20 uses variable-speed technology to provide excellent efficiency and humidity control. It’s ideal for homeowners who want near-premium performance without paying Trane’s top pricing.

Trusted reliability
Solid efficiency
Strong warranties
Moderate noise levels
Limited smart features
Premium pricing for top models
5

Bryant Heat Pumps

4/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $5,000 to $11,000
Best For: Nationwide Availability

What We Love

Bryant, part of Carrier’s family of brands, offers many of the same technologies at a slightly lower price point. It’s a popular choice for homeowners across the country because of its strong dealer network and broad model lineup. Bryant strikes a balance between premium Carrier quality and affordability.

Cost Information

Bryant heat pump costs vary by model line and the features you select.

  • Preferred Series: $5,000 to $8,000
  • Evolution Series: $7,000 to $11,000+

Installation adds $1,500 to $3,000 depending on complexity. In many regions, Bryant is more affordable than Carrier but provides nearly identical technology, making it a strong mid-range choice.

Best Model

The Evolution Extreme 24 heat pump mirrors Carrier’s Infinity 24, offering up to 24 SEER2 efficiency, advanced humidity control, and smart home connectivity. It’s a strong choice for buyers who want high performance without going full Carrier.

Wide product range
Strong warranties
Good nationwide availability
Mid-to-high costs
No budget-friendly series
Some units noisy
6

Rheem Heat Pumps

4/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $4,500 to $10,500
Best For: Budget-Friendly Reliability

What We Love

Rheem is one of the most widely available brands in the U.S., with a reputation for delivering dependable, mid-range heat pumps. While it doesn’t match the highest efficiency levels of premium brands, Rheem offers strong performance at competitive prices. Its wide distribution also makes service and replacement parts easier to find.

Cost Information

Rheem pricing shifts depending on whether you choose entry-level, mid-range, or advanced models.

  • Classic Series: $4,500 to $7,500
  • Classic Plus Series: $6,000 to $9,000
  • Prestige Series: $7,500 to $10,500+

Installation adds $1,500 to $3,000. Rheem is often priced slightly below premium brands, making it a good fit for homeowners who want reliable comfort without overspending.

Best Feature

The Prestige Series RP20 provides variable-speed performance and ENERGY STAR® efficiency at a mid-range price. It’s a strong balance of comfort, reliability, and cost.

Affordable mid-range options
Good efficiency ratings
Nationwide availability
Moderate noise levels
Shorter warranty options
Some durability concerns
7

Amana Heat Pumps

3.5/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $4,500 to $9,500
Best For: Strong Warranty Value

What We Love

Amana is best known for its industry-leading warranties, which often include lifetime coverage on compressors. This makes Amana a smart choice for buyers who want long-term peace of mind. While the lineup is smaller compared to big brands, Amana offers affordable, reliable systems with decent efficiency.

Cost Information

Amana heat pump costs vary by series and efficiency level, with strong warranties included across all models.

  • ASZ14: $4,500 to $6,500
  • ASZ16: $5,500 to $7,500
  • AVZC20: $7,500 to $9,500

Installation typically adds $1,500 to $2,500. For homeowners who want a strong balance of affordability and warranty security, Amana delivers good long-term value.

Best Model

The AVZC20 offers variable-speed performance, high efficiency, and one of the strongest warranties available. For buyers who value warranty protection, this is one of the best models in the industry.

Strong warranty coverage
Solid efficiency
Affordable pricing
Smaller dealer network
Louder units
Limited premium models
8

Armstrong Air Heat Pumps

3.5/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $4,500 to $9,500
Best For: Quiet Performance

What We Love

Armstrong Air is a trusted mid-market HVAC brand, often chosen for its quiet and efficient units. While not as widely distributed as major names, it has built a reputation for delivering strong comfort at competitive pricing. Homeowners in smaller markets may find fewer installers, but those who do often report high satisfaction.

Cost Information

Armstrong Air pricing depends on the series, with higher costs tied to advanced technology and variable-capacity systems.

  • 4SHP14LE: $4,500 to $6,500
  • 4SHP16LE: $5,500 to $7,500
  • 4SHP20LX: $7,000 to $9,500

Installation adds $1,500 to $2,500. Armstrong is generally priced in the mid-range and appeals to homeowners who want quiet, comfortable performance without premium brand pricing.

Best Model

The 4SHP20LX features variable-capacity operation and Armstrong’s Comfort Sync® technology, which allows remote monitoring and customized comfort control. It’s a great option for homeowners who want quiet comfort without premium pricing.

Quiet operation
Good efficiency
Solid mid-range pricing
Limited dealer network
Fewer smart features
Shorter warranties
9

Heil Heat Pumps

3.5/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $4,000 to $9,000
Best For: Budget-Conscious Buyers

What We Love

Heil is part of the Carrier family and offers reliable heat pumps at a more affordable price point. While efficiency ratings are lower than Carrier’s flagship models, Heil provides strong warranties and accessible pricing, making it a popular entry-level option.

Cost Information

Heil heat pump prices differ based on series, system size, and efficiency rating.

  • QuietComfort Series: $4,000 to $6,000
  • Performance Series: $5,000 to $7,500
  • Ion Series: $6,500 to $9,000

Installation adds $1,500 to $2,500. Heil is a good option for homeowners who want Carrier-backed reliability without paying premium prices.

Best Model

The Ion 18 Variable-Speed balances efficiency, comfort control, and affordability. It includes advanced humidity management and decent efficiency ratings for a budget-friendly unit.

Affordable entry-level models
Solid warranties
Wide product range
Moderate efficiency
Louder operation
Dealer availability varies
10

Payne Heat Pumps

4/5
  • Average Installation Cost: $4,300–$10,350
Best For: Budget-Friendliness

What We Love

Payne, established in 1914 and a subsidiary of Carrier Corporation, is celebrated for delivering dependable heat pumps that operate with notable efficiency, providing a high-quality yet generally more budget-friendly alternative in the market.

Cost Information

With a pricing spectrum from $4,300 to $10,350, Payne manages to offer a blend of affordability and quality, further backed by a 10-year limited warranty on parts for products registered.

Best Feature

Payne shines with its seven models of heat pumps, most of which proudly bear the EnergyStar certification, reflecting a commitment to energy-efficient and eco-friendly operation.

Excellent brand backed by industry leader
Budget-friendly and reliable
10-year warranty
Limited features
Shorter warranties

Modernize Review Hub

Explore more HVAC brand information, such as Best Brands pages and in-depth Brand Reviews, on our Modernize Review Hub!

Installations and Repairs

Whether you've decided on a brand and are looking for an installer, or you need repairs for your existing systems, we recommend exploring reviews for these companies to determine if they are a good fit for your home improvement project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose a heat pump for my home?

When researching potential heat pump systems for your home, consider these main factors:



  • Size: There is a fine line when choosing the best heat pump for your home. Pick a unit that’s too small and it will struggle to perform well. Choose a unit that’s too large and you’ll overpay.

  • Compressor: Single-speed compressors may cost less, but variable speed compressors tend to perform better and are more energy efficient.

  • Efficiency Ratings: Look closely at a heat pump’s SEER rating. Higher ratings equal better performance (and usually higher heat pump costs).

  • Climate Zone: Make sure you choose a heat pump that’s designed to work well in your climate. Many manufacturers make heat pumps specifically designed for optimal performance in extremely cold climates. Basic heat pumps, meanwhile, may be sufficient for more temperate climates that don’t require maximum output for your heating or cooling systems.

  • Noise: Most heat pump manufacturers supply decibel ratings for their products. Lower decibel ratings equal quieter units.

  • Durability: Consumers can learn more about heat pump reliability by reading about the products mentioned on this page, as well as through third-party sites such as Consumer Reports.


What size heat pump do I need?

The size of heat pumps is calculated in British Thermal Unit (BTU). The average size of a heat pump needed for a 1,000 to 1,200 square feet is 21,000 BTUs. The BTU size determines the capacity of a heat pump system to effectively heat or cool a space.


Use the table below for reference for ductless heat pump sizes for your home.



























Heat Pump Sizes - Ductless Heat Pump
Room Square Ft.Ductless Heat Pump BTUs Needed
150-300 sq. ft.6,000 to 7,000 BTUs
300-400 sq. ft.8,000-9,000 BTUs
400-550 sq. ft.10,000-12,000 BTUs
550-1,000 sq. ft.14,000-18,000 BTUs
1,000-1,500 sq. ft.21,000-24,000 BTUs


Working closely with a licensed HVAC or heat pump installation contractor can help you determine which size of heat pump works best for your residence.


What factors determine the cost of a heat pump?

Heat pump installation costs can vary greatly by contractor, region, and your home’s unique installation needs. Product prices will vary depending on:



  • Heat pump size and capacity

  • Energy output

  • Energy efficiency

  • Functions like variable speed, single-stage, two-stage etc.

  • Features like inverter technology, remote monitoring, etc.

  • Heat pump brand


What are SEER and HSPF ratings for heat pumps? What is a good rating?

SEER ratings denote a product’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The rating is derived by dividing cooling output for a standard summer or winter season by the overall electricity required for the same time frame. Starting in 2023, SEER ratings have been renamed SEER2 to reflect a new standard testing procedure.


HSPF ratings, meanwhile, refers to a heat pump’s Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. Higher ratings translate to increased energy efficiency. Heat pumps with an HSPF rating above 8.2 are awarded the EPA’s EnergyStar label. All new heat pumps sold after Jan. 1, 2023 must have a minimum SEER2 rating of 14.3, as well as an HSPF rating of 7.5. Units with higher SEER/SEER2 ratings perform better than the industry standard and will reduce monthly energy costs, but they typically cost more upfront.


Do I need to combine my heat pump with an air conditioner/furnace?

While it’s possible to do so, combining a heat pump with a conventional air conditioning unit works best in milder climates unless you purchase a heat pump specifically designed to operate in extreme temperatures.


If you need to replace your entire HVAC system you may also be interested in learning about the best air conditioner brands and the best furnace brands on the market today.


How do I find a reliable local heat pump contractor fast?

Choosing a heat pump installation contractor shouldn’t be a snap decision, although it is possible. 


A good place to start is with our HVAC contractor checklist. Once you have narrowed down your choices, you can do additional research on your top HVAC contractors using Better Business Bureau ratings and third-party review sites. Personal references from friends and family are also important when choosing a reliable heat pump or HVAC contractor. Modernize can also pair you with pre-vetted prospective contractors.


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