
American Standard vs Rheem Air Conditioners
Rheem air conditioners start at around $3,000 installed. However, reviewers warn that they break down easily and expensive repairs may offset any upfront savings.
Rheem manufactures 11 central air conditioning models ranging in SEER rating from 20.5 to 13. The top-of-the-line variable-speed RA20 and RA17 units are Econet enabled, allowing them to be remotely monitored and voice-controlled via Alexa and similar devices.
Cost
Rheem is known to make HVAC equipment that delivers middle-of-the-road performance. With the exception of oil furnaces, the company doesn’t lead the industry in Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings. Their base models can also be noisy. Rheem uses a composite base pan to quiet vibration noise and a fan orifice designed to optimize airflow while reducing noise.
The company’s RA20 variable speed, two-stage model boasts a SEER rating of 20.5 and is EcoNet compatible for smart home integration. It features a Copeland scroll compressor and is one of the quietest units available. However, reviewers warn that these models are not as durable as other brands. They may break down more often in extreme climates, and the cost of repairs could negate any initial savings. For this reason, it’s best to work with a professional. The company’s website makes finding a qualified installer easy, as it lists all approved contractors by state and region.
Energy Efficiency
Both brands offer a variety of models to fit different needs and budgets. However, there are some key points that differentiate the two brands. These include cost, energy efficiency and other factors.
Rheem is an Energy Star-certified company, and its most popular ACs have SEER ratings of up to 22. They also feature a quieter Copeland scroll compressor, which runs at a lower noise level than other compressors. The Rheem RA20, for example, produces 54 dB of noise.
The brand’s products also include a range of indoor air quality systems, including whole-home filtration and several humidifiers. It also sells commercial equipment and heat pumps.
Rheem is a family-owned company founded in 1925. The company acquired Ruud Manufacturing in the 1950s, and today it manufactures water heaters and HVAC equipment. Its products are covered by a 10-year limited parts warranty and 12-year limited compressor warranties. They are also eligible for rebates from local utilities. These rebates help to offset the cost of the new AC system and reduce energy costs for homeowners.
Warranty
Rheem is the clear winner when it comes to cost, with units available for as little as $5,000 installed. However, many reviewers note that the company’s appliances break down frequently and that ongoing costs may negate any initial savings.
American Standard, on the other hand, offers a wide variety of AC models with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency ratings. The company’s Prestige and Platinum series also feature innovative features that can help save homeowners money over time.
Although both brands have good warranty coverage, Rheem’s premium appliances are less expensive than those of American Standard. Its Premier series models have a per-unit cost including installation of between $5,800 and $8,000. Rheem’s highest-end models offer a 10-year conditional unit replacement warranty. Some of its select series models have a lifetime limited heat exchanger warranty. You can find a detailed list of warranties on the Rheem website. The company also offers a free product registration service.
Noise
Rheem is known for their affordable air conditioning units. They offer a 10-year limited warranty on their equipment. They also offer an optional Econet smart thermostat that enables you to track your unit’s energy consumption. However, Rheem has a lower reliability rating than American Standard.
The company started making water heating systems in 1925 and grew into air conditioning and HVAC systems in the 1950s. It is now owned by the Paloma Group, which also owns the Ruud HVAC system brand. Rheem offers a wide range of HVAC products, including water heaters, pool and spa heaters, and commercial refrigeration equipment.
Despite having a low reliability rating, Rheem has made improvements in their AC unit quality over the years. They use advanced technology, such as modulating Copeland scroll compressors, to reduce noise. They also use features like a composite base pan that reduces vibration and fan orifice designs to optimize airflow and quiet operation. Their RA20 model operates at a noise level of 54 dB, which is one of the lowest for any unit on the market today.

