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Rheem vs Ruud AC prices, pros and cons

The Rheem vs. Ruud AC debate revolves around some subtle but key differences between the two manufacturers.

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Ruud and Rheem are two of the most recognizable names in residential heating and cooling. The Rheem vs. Ruud AC debate revolves around some subtle but key differences between the two manufacturers. 

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Quality

Rheem vs Ruud ACs: Shown here is Rheem Prestige Series 2-stage AC.When it comes to Rheem vs. Ruud AC quality, both brands have a solid reputation. The best way to compare air conditioner quality is to look at the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. This rating indicates how efficient an air conditioner is at its maximum capacity. The higher the SEER rating, the more powerful the AC unit and the less energy it requires to cool your home.

Ruud AC products range in SEER ratings from 16 to 19.5. While this range is small compared to other home cooling lines, an HVAC unit with an SEER rating of 19.5, such as the Ultra Series two-stage line by Ruud, is incredibly powerful.

Rheem has an identical SEER rating range from 16 to 19.5, with its Prestige Series being the most powerful models in the line. It is worth noting that most Rheem units use a double-coil system, meaning they are considerably quieter than most units on the market.

Ruud coil systems vary, so noise level varies from model to model.

Variety

You can choose from a variety of units in the Rheem vs. Ruud AC lines. Both brands are comparable regarding power usage, and both offer six different product lines with different models to choose from.

The Rheem Prestige Series and Ruud Ultra Series product lines are the two of the most powerful air conditioning lines on the market.

Air conditioner prices

Ruud ACWhile Ruud and Rheem are generally comparable when it comes to pricing, the actual cost of any given unit depends on several different factors. The cost to install an air conditioner can be pricey in itself.

Before you hire a contractor, you should get a free, in-home estimate to understand how much you are going to pay for the unit and installation. Installation costs can render the minor price difference between Ruud and Rheem null.

Overall comparison

Rheem pros

    • Quiet.
    • High quality.
    • Energy Star rated.
    • Steel construction.

Rheem cons

    • Limited variety.
    • Limited SEER options.
    • Cost.
    • Limited warranty.

Ruud pros

    • Broad range of SEER ratings.
    • High quality.
    • Energy Star rated.
    • Popular in households and commercial properties.

Ruud cons

    • Limited variety.
    • Limited SEER options.
    • Cost.
    • Bulky.

Rheem and Ruud are very similar brands. Both are in the midrange in terms of cost, and both produce powerful units with high SEER ratings.

Keeping Your AC Unit Running

The key to keeping either of these units running is to maintain them well.

Annual tune-ups are needed to make sure that your investment keeps running. Every year, you should have a professional come in and inspect your AC unit.

It’s important that you also keep the unit clean. Keep leaves and debris from building up on or around the unit. A build-up of stuff in the intake can cause the machine to simply give out.

Comparing Repair Costs

The cost of repairs on both of these offerings is very similar. There are multiple resources online that will tell you how much common repairs will cost, including compressors, evaporator coils, and controls. After five years, you can expect to need to make some minor repairs, so knowing the overall cost of repairs on your unit will be helpful for making a smart decision.

Keeping your AC unit Running

The key to keeping either of these units running is to maintain them well.

Annual tune-ups are needed to make sure that your investment keeps running. Every year, you should have a professional come in and inspect your AC unit.

It’s important that you also keep the unit clean. Keep leaves and debris from building up on or around the unit. A build-up of stuff in the intake can cause the machine to simply give out.

Comparing repair costs

The cost of repairs on both of these offerings is very similar. There are multiple resources online that will tell you how much common repairs will cost, including compressors, evaporator coils, and controls. After five years, you can expect to need to make some minor repairs, so knowing the overall cost of repairs on your unit will be helpful for making a smart decision.

The major difference in the Rheem vs. Ruud AC comparison is that Rheem units tend to be quieter while Ruud units appear to have more solid construction. Find a local contractor who can help you determine which brand best fits the needs of your home.

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