8 Worst Heat Pump Brands to Avoid & 5 Reliable Makers

Are you in the market for a new heat pump but overwhelmed by the variety of brands and models available?

With so many options, it can be challenging to determine which one will provide reliable and efficient heating and cooling for your home.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the bad heat pump brands on the market today.

Our analysis is based on several key criteria: efficiency, reliability, warranty, and customer reviews.

By examining these factors, we can identify the brands most likely to disappoint you with poor performance, frequent breakdowns, and short lifespans.

But we won’t stop there. We know that avoiding bad brands is not enough; you need alternatives that you can trust.

That’s why we will also provide you with a list of reliable heat pump brands worth considering.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of heat pumps and discover which brands are worth your investment and which ones to avoid.

Worst Heat Pump Brands

Based on customer reviews, efficiency, and reliability, the worst heat pump brands to avoid are Ameristar, Lennox, Ruud, Rheem, Carrier, Nordyne, Goodman, and McQuay.

Read the following blogs to learn more about other worst products:

• Worst Mini Split Brands
• Windshield Brands to Avoid
• Bad Window Brands
• Worst Washers

1. Ameristar

Ameristar may sound like a patriotic choice for a heat pump brand. Still, unfortunately, their products fall short in several areas. One of the most significant issues with Ameristar is its lack of efficiency.

Their focus on providing basic, affordable products to the masses means that their heat pumps typically have lower SEER efficiency ratings than other brands.

This means higher energy bills and fewer savings for you in the long run.

In addition to their efficiency problems, some users have reported that Ameristar heat pumps can be quite noisy. This can be a deal breaker for homeowners who value quiet operation and comfort.

While Ameristar may be a decent choice if you’re looking for a budget replacement for a blown pump, there are better options if you’re willing to invest a bit more.

2. Lennox International

As someone in the market for a high-quality heat pump or HVAC system, I’ve heard a lot about Lennox International.

While they’re known for producing extremely high-efficiency models with SEER ratings as high as 23.5, there’s one major issue that I can’t overlook: their reliability.

As a premium brand, you’d expect Lennox to be reliable, but repeatedly, customers have reported that their products tend to break down fairly quickly.

This can be a major headache for homeowners who rely on their heat pump for year-round comfort.

To make matters worse, Lennox tends to make their own parts and can be selective about selling them.

This can lead to expensive repairs and replacements compared to other brands that use more widely available parts.

In fact, more than 1,600 units from Lennox faced a recall in 2020 due to interior components overheating and posing a serious fire hazard.

This is definitely not something I want to risk in my home, and that is why Lennox is in my heat pump brands to avoid.

It’s worth noting that Lennox owns several other brands, including ArmstrongAir, Ducane, and AirEase. Surprisingly, these brands have a higher reliability rating than their parent company.

So if you’re still set on buying a Lennox product, it may be worth considering one of their subsidiary brands instead.

3. Ruud Heat Pumps

When it comes to heat pump brands, one that’s been around for years and is well known in the market is Ruud.

However, they’ve also gained notoriety as one of the worst heat pump brands out there.

Recent customer surveys show that Ruud has had many issues with heat pumps breaking down, affecting its reputation in the market.

In fact, the brand had to do a massive overhaul and focus on improving reliability and quality to regain its standing.

I want to invest in a trustworthy brand to keep my home comfortable year-round without unexpected breakdowns or repairs.

While Ruud may have once been a household name, for now, it is among the bad heat pump companies to avoid.

4. Rheem

Rheem and Ruud may be sibling brands, but unfortunately, they share a common issue: unreliability.

As the parent company of Ruud, Rheem has faced its fair share of breakdowns, complaints, and recalls in recent years.

Homeowners have reported frequent issues with their HVAC products, leaving them with a bad experience.

While the companies have recognized the problem and are working to improve their product quality, it remains to be seen whether their efforts will bear fruit.

Until solid evidence supports their reliability, it’s best to avoid Rheem and Ruud heat pump brands.

After all, you would not want to deal with frequent breakdowns and the headache that comes with it.

5. Carrier

Carrier is known for their environmentally-friendly designs, which have earned them a lot of praise. However, their reliability can be a bit of a mixed bag.

On the one hand, some customers have reported no issues with their heat pumps, but on the other hand, there have been cases of failure.

Although Carrier is trying to improve its product quality, it’s important to carefully consider all options before purchasing.

While they may be better than some aftermarket models, it’s essential to prioritize reliability and safety when investing in a heat pump for your home.

6. Nordyne

When it comes to heat pumps, affordability is an important consideration for many people.

Nordyne is a brand that markets itself as being budget-friendly, but this often comes at the expense of quality and reliability. And that’s why it is in our worst heat pump brands to avoid.

While some HVAC installers may recommend Nordyne for its low cost, it’s important to consider its potential downsides.

One major issue with Nordyne heat pumps is that they simply aren’t built to last.

Numerous customer reviews and complaints highlight the brand’s tendency to break down, often just a short time after installation.

This can be frustrating and costly for homeowners who are left to deal with repairs or replacements.

In addition to reliability issues, Nordyne heat pumps are also known for being noisy. While some people may be willing to put up with this to save money, it can be a major annoyance for others.

Overall, while the brand may seem attractive due to its affordability, it’s important to think long-term when it comes to heating your home.

It’s often better to invest in a higher-quality heat pump from a more reputable brand, even if it means paying a bit more upfront.

7. Goodman

My friend used a Goodman heat pump, and while the price was reasonable, the experience left much to be desired. The unit got the job done, but it was nothing fancy.

Goodman may not be your best option if you’re looking for a heat pump with all the bells and whistles.

One of the major concerns with this brand is its history of recalls. In 2008, they recalled more than 29,000 units due to overheating wires and fire hazards.

It’s the main reason why Goodman is among the worst heat pump companies.

That being said, Goodman could be viable if you’re on a budget. But keep in mind that you might sacrifice quality and reliability for affordability.

While their models are generally sturdy, they still have a reputation for breaking down more often than some of the higher-end brands.

8. McQuay

As someone who relies on a heat pump to keep my home comfortable, the last thing I want to worry about is the risk of a fire. Unfortunately, that was the reality for customers of McQuay back in 2007.

In addition to recalling over 8,500 devices due to technical problems, the business also had to investigate heat pump fires.

It’s concerning to think about how this could have happened. It certainly raises questions about the quality control practices at McQuay.

While the company may have improved in the years since this incident, it’s understandable that many homeowners would still be hesitant to trust their products.

5 Signs to Identify a Bad Heat Pump Brand

Identifying the worst heat pump brand can be challenging. Still, several factors can help you to make an informed decision. Here are some factors to consider:

• Poor or Low-Quality Airflow: insufficient or weak air output
• Higher Energy Bills: Sudden rise in electric bill
• Strange Noises: Unusual sounds coming from the heat pump
• Bad Smells: Unpleasant odors from the heat pump
• Inadequate Heat: The heat pump fails to provide warmth

Reliable Heat Pump Brands

Several reliable heat pump brands on the market today are known for their quality and durability. Here are some of the top brands to consider:

1. Daikin Heat Pumps

When it comes to reliable heat pump brands, Daikin stands out from the rest. With over 95 years of experience in HVAC technology, Daikin has established itself as a trusted brand in the industry.

Their heat pumps are well-regarded for their efficiency, longevity, and performance.

The brand also offers a range of models with advanced features like smart thermostats and zoning systems to meet the specific needs of your home.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing system or install a new one, Daikin is a brand you can trust to deliver quality and reliability.

2. Tempster

If you’re looking for a heat pump brand that delivers on both quality and affordability, look no further than Tempstar.

With a reputation on par with Carrier and Bryant, Tempstar is a top-rated brand that won’t break the bank. Manufactured with quality in mind, these heat pumps are built to last and provide reliable service.

One standout feature of Tempstar is its use of Copeland compressors, another high-end brand known for efficiency and longevity.

Plus, with easily accessible small parts, repairs are a breeze and won’t cost a fortune.

The 5-10 year warranty offered by the brand is also highly regarded, covering total replacement of the product and repairs.

3. York

I recently purchased the York Heat Pumps and was impressed with their quality and efficiency. This heat pump brand really delivers on its promise of top-notch performance.

One of the standout features of York Heat Pumps is that they make their own coils.

This attention to detail ensures that their products are of the highest quality and are built to last.

Plus, with a lifetime compressor warranty and a 10-year general parts warranty, you can rest assured that your investment is protected.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient heat pump brand, York is definitely worth considering.

They prioritize quality and customer satisfaction, making them one of the top contenders in the market.

4. Trane

Trane is a leading HVAC brand trusted by top techs worldwide for its superior quality and reliability.

Their heat pumps regularly score high marks for efficiency. Moreover, all current models are Energy Star-certified, meaning you can keep your home cozy without breaking the bank on energy bills.

While Trane may come with a hefty price tag, you’re paying for quality that can’t be beaten.

Plus, their warranties and customer service are top-notch, giving you peace of mind when investing in a Trane heat pump.

With up to 20 SEER in energy efficiency, you can be confident that you’re getting a great product.

5. Maytag

Maytag, a well-known brand for its reliable dishwashers and laundry appliances, also produces highly efficient and durable heat pumps.

Although Maytag is less prominent in the HVAC market than some other brands, their heat pumps have received high scores for efficiency and quality.

With a maximum SEER rating of 19, their heat pumps are designed to provide exceptional performance while keeping energy costs low.

One of the key selling points of Maytag heat pumps is their exceptional durability.

While replacement parts may be slightly harder to come by than more popular brands, Maytag’s exceptional durability provides reliable service for many years.

Additionally, the company offers a generous 12-year warranty on their heat pumps, providing added peace of mind to customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

After examining the worst heat pump brands, it’s clear that investing in a high-quality and reliable heat pump is crucial for your home’s long-term comfort and safety.

While some of these brands may offer more affordable options, the potential cost of frequent breakdowns and repairs outweighs any initial savings.

Prioritizing efficiency, reliability, warranty, and customer reviews is important when purchasing.

And don’t forget to explore alternative brands that offer a better track record of performance and customer satisfaction.

With the right heat pump, you can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free environment in your home all year round.

Crystal Hafley

Crystal Hafley is a dedicated writer and content creator for WorstBrands, where she specializes in writing insightful reviews about kitchen appliances and fashion products.

With her expertise, Crystal provides readers with accurate and reliable information to help them make informed decisions about the brands and products they use every day. When she's not researching or writing, Crystal enjoys cooking and exploring the latest fashion trends.