Table of Contents
Carrier Gas Furnace Reviews – Carrier offers three different gas furnace Models of various efficiencies and sizes for their gas furnaces. Carrier’s economy model gas furnace is the Comfort Series with AFUE ratings ranging from 80% AFUE to 96.5% AFUE.
Next, is the Performance Series ranging from 80% AFUE to 96.7% AFUE. Furthermore, Carriers’ top models are the Infinity Series ranging from 80% AFUE to 98.5% AFUE. Lastly, depending on the model the capacities range from 38,000 BTUs to 154,000 BTUs.
Carrier Model Series/Categories
- Infinity® Series are the Premium systems
- Performance™ Series are the Mid-Range systems
- Comfort™ Series are the Economy systems
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Carriers Top Rated AFUE (up to)
- Carrier Warranties as Compared to Other Brands 90%
- Carrier Quality as Compared to Other Brands 95%
- Consumer Opinion based on Field Experience 90%
- Carrier Efficiency Compared to Other Brands 93%
- Overall Carrier Opinion from a Technical Perspective 85%
Carrier Gas Furnace Reviews | Consumer Ratings - Differences
There are differences between the economic models the top models. Top models have variable speed blowers and more sophisticated controls than the economical models. The top models have communication features with the ability to hook up a laptop.
Furthermore, this is for diagnostic tuning and troubleshooting while the lower models do not have this capability. Diagnostic abilities offer better gas furnace troubleshooting. Furthermore, all Carrier model gas furnaces are convertible from Natural Gas to LP Gas. Lastly, the cabinet construction from model to model uses the same materials and paint.
Carrier Gas Furnace Model Comparison Guide
| Carrier Gas Furnace Model Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| Infinity® Series (Premium Model) | Performance Series (Mid-Range Model) | Comfort Series (Economy Model) |
| Premium model AFUE Ratings range from 80 to 96.7 | AFUE Ratings range from 80 to 96.7 | AFUE Ratings range from 80 to 95.5 |
| Lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty* | 20-year heat exchanger limited warranty* | Lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty* |
| Variable Speed ECM Blower | ECM Variable Speed blower (select models) | Fixed-speed blower motor |
| Modulating and 2-Stage | 2-Stage Heat (select models) | Single-stage operation |
| Premium models have a Fully Insulated Cabinet for sound and heat loss reduction. | Fully insulated cabinet | Fully insulated cabinet |
| Premium models have a Two-speed inducer motor | Two-speed inducer motor (select models) | Fixed-speed inducer motor |
| Premium models use Stainless steel fin-and-tube design secondary heat exchanger | Stainless steel fin-and-tube design secondary heat exchanger (select models) | Stainless steel fin-and-tube design secondary heat exchange (select models) |
| Ten-year parts limited warranty | 10-year parts limited warranty | 10-year parts limited warranty |
| Select sizes meet ENERGY STAR® Gas Furnace qualifications | Meets ENERGY STAR® Gas Furnace qualifications for select models | N/A |
Energy Efficiency and Gas Furnace AFUE
Just because you spend extra money to buy a high AFUE gas furnace does not mean you will have true energy efficiency. There are many factors to getting true energy efficiency. Among these factors are:
- Proper installation of the gas furnace
- Ductwork Integrity
- Home Insulation including energy-efficient doors and windows
- Home humidity levels
For more information see our article on Gas Furnace Efficiency Factors
Carrier offers the Infinity series for its top-of-the-line systems. The Performance Series for their mid-level systems, and the Comfort Series for their builder’s grade systems. All the series Carrier furnace systems have available efficiency ranges from 80% AFUE all the up to over 96% AFUE. Carrier Infinity gas furnaces come with all the bells and whistles to add premium efficiency and comfort.
The economy models are less complicated and not so efficient. Top-tier Carrier models are modulating gas furnaces. I always advise people if you buy higher-end equipment. Additionally, to get an extended warranty that includes labor. Lastly, make sure you hire a certified HVAC contractor for the installation.
Modulating Versus Two-stage Versus Single-stage
How long do Carrier gas furnaces last?
Is Carrier a good furnace brand?
Yes, Carrier makes a quality product including their gas furnaces. The engineering is top-notch as well as their quality control at the Carrier factory. Most problems with any furnace brands occur during installation.
Improper installation can lead to premature failure, bad efficiency, constant repairs, and serious frustration. That is why it is crucial to hire a quality contractor for the installation. Quality contractor over the brand.
What Brand of Furnace is the Best?
In my opinion, Carrier does make a good reliable furnace. The Carrier brand is long established and mostly respected. Carrier has decent warranties and ultra-efficient furnaces. The downside is that Carrier is on the expensive side of most furnace brands.
Compared to some other brands you’ll spend more for installation and repairs. What is the best furnace brand? The best furnace brand is the brand that is installed correctly by a reliable, quality contractor.
Pricing, Efficiency, and Return On Investment | Carrier Gas Furnace Reviews
Gas Furnace Pricing, Efficiency, and Return On Investment (ROI) Factors
| Pricing Versus Efficiency Return On Investment | ||
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | Pricing Range for Initial Purchase and Subsequent Repairs outside of Warranty | ROI (Return On Investment) |
| 95% AFUE Plus | $$$$$ | 5 to 7 years depending on efficiency %* |
| 90% to 95% AFUE | $$$ | 7 to 10 years depending on efficiency %* |
| 80% to 90% | $ | Over 10 years* |
| *Many factors depend on ROI such as house insulation, personal usage preferences, ductwork integrity, and other essential efficiency factors. The furnace AFUE rating is a high factor in the return. | ||
Warranties | Carrier Gas Furnace Reviews
Finally, ensure you register the warranty within the time frame given by Carrier. Furthermore, most HVAC manufacturer warranties only cover parts and not labor. Make certain to read the bottom line before the purchase especially for warranties.
If they have an extended parts and labor warranty, no matter the brand, we recommend purchasing it. Lastly, pay close attention to the heat exchanger warranties. Furthermore, Carrier has a decent heat exchanger warranty but it does not cover labor unless it is available for separate purchase.
Check our category index for review(s) we have done for specific Carrier gas furnaces. Additionally, we always encourage everyone to submit a review of their HVAC equipment. This is easily done by selecting the “Write Review” button above this review. It helps others when they are making a decision to purchase new equipment.
Carrier Gas Furnace Buyers Guide
When purchasing a new gas furnace you will have to deal with a contractor. This goes with selecting a brand and model that is affordable. The total cost of the furnace should be for installation and the price of the furnace.
To help you navigate this process we have an HVAC consumer buyers guide. We recommend you read that page on our site in addition to reading some of the relevant articles in the Buyers Advice category. Here is a cursory list of a few of the items of advice in our buyer’s guide article:
- Quality contractor over brand. The quality of the contractor should your primary consideration when purchasing a gas furnace. Find out why on our Buyers Advice page.
- Always get a minimum of three bids from three separate contractors that you have vetted. The lowest bid is not always the best bid.
- Make sure the contractors, as a part of their bid, do load calculations for sizing the HVAC equipment. Finally, never use a rule of thumb or guess to figure out the size.
About Carrier
Finally, Carrier is owned by United Technologies which is the same parent corporation as Bryant, Heil, and Tempstar. The founder, Willis Carrier, is considered the father of air conditioning.
See our other Carrier Reviews
Carrier Air Conditioner Reviews – Consumer Ratings | Carrier Heat Pump Reviews – Consumer Ratings | Carrier Package Unit Reviews - Consumer Ratings | Carrier HVAC Reviews
For more information on Carrier and their latest models and efficiency ratings please see the Carrier website.
Carrier Gas Furnace Reviews Model Comparison Chart
Carrier Gas Furnace Reviews | Consumer Ratings
Hi,
Which furnace/AC of these below would you recommend ?
1. Carrier 110 – Furnace: 59TP6, AC: ABB3
2. Trane 110 – Furnace: S9V2, AC: XR13
3. SmartAir 110 – Furnace: R96V, AC: RA13
4. Goodman 110 – Furnace: GMVC96, AC: GSX13
Regards.
Carrier or Trane
i have had carrier bryant furnaces for over 30 years first furnace was in the house when i bought it a 95 plus the only problem is the inducer motor failed every couple years no problem new motor cost less than 100.00 twelve years ago my servicing dealer told me my heat exchanger was cracked (turned out not cracked) and sold me a carrier bryant 96 plus this furnace worked for 9 years and had to be totally rebuilt i was lucky i had bought the 10 year parts and labor warranty now 2 1/2 years later the inducer motor failed ( this was replaced previously under warranty ) and instead of paying 100.00 for a motor i paid 900.00 for the whole assembly the little motors are not available anywhere for replacement i think this is a defect in carriers part system paying 900.00 for a 100.00 motor and some new plastic is crazy if this happens again in 2 or 3 years i will buy a different brand of furnace
I agree with Rich 100%. On July 23, 2012 we had a new Carrier (90% efficient) Infinity system installed. Carrier was, at one time, a premier manufacturer of quality heating and air conditioning systems. Since the original install we have had to replace 2 inducer motors, one on 9/14/2017 and most recently just a couple of days ago on 2/21/2022. The first replacement cost just over $1,100 and the most recent replacement cost in excess of $1,410. From this experience it appears that every 5 years or so we will have to replace an inducer motor at a cost in excess of $1,100 – $1,400 +. I would urge anyone thinking about replacing a needed heating unit to stay clear of getting a Carrier system as they are not what they were at one time. My family and I clearly should have gone with another brand.
My Heil furnace, after 27 years of service, will be replaced due to a cracked heat exchange. I will be replacing it with a Carrier Comfort Series 95.5% AFUE 60,000 BUT gas furnace. My homeowners insurance will be covering the replacement. Since the Heil brand of furnace I have falls under the Carrier umbrella, at this point, all I can do is hope that the new Carrier branded furnace lasts as long as their Heil branded model.
No, don’t do it. You will regret it when you have to spend ridiculous amounts to replace the inducer motor every couple of years.
John is correct. Since 2012 when our new high-efficiency Carrier system was first installed, we have had to replace 2 inducer motors, one on 9/14/2017 and most recently on 2/21/2022. Each replacement cost us $1,133. the first time and $1,411. the second time. Try another brand as Carrier is not the brand that it once was.
Same problem
They want to chat h me $1,500 to $1,700 to replace the motor.
The warranty expired a year.
Call another contractor.
Installed a Carrier 96 Infinity model 58UVB in 2008. Wow, what junk! Exhaust motor replaced 3 times under warranty in 8 years. The last replacement I noticed the motor was redesigned…. ummm. And no other specs changed? ( Air intake from outside as standard not optional…etc. etc.) It stops running at -30 c every winter, just like a clock. If you buy a furnace, read that boring manual that comes with it, and ensure the correct install too… question everyone from the sales, to install, even the city code person who ” inspects the install and stamps it as a correct install”….even run the BTU needed calculator yourself and double check… otherwise you play the parts game for years after. ( I inspected my sisters 85 % Carrier, runs perfect for past 12 years. The parts look identical to my 96 % infinity… I think that’s the issue! They designed it using the same parts, but not the higher tolerances and wear needed) Good luck all !
I agree with Mark, I have a performance 96 MFG date is May 2011 installed in June 2011 . Serviced annually since it was installed. Over the last 14 months I have payed for a new inducer motor last year and anew secondary exchanger this year. I live in Canada so guaranteed to see -20 c and colder for a few months year . I’m not sure about the newer models but , in my opinion, they are a terrible furnace. I would not walk away from a Carrier I would run.
If your foolish enough to buy carrier make sure you register purchase b4 90 days or the parts warranty is cut in half. 5 years vs 10. You will need all the free parts you can get. Labor is charged so upkeep costs expensive enough. I will never buy carrier again. Maybe the warmer climate in Mexico their product will suffice. North Dakota no way.
I have a Carrier 58mta100-f-12116 93% efficiency furnace. Input is 100K BTU and output is 94K BTU. It was installed in 2006. I bought the house in 2017 and found out that the secondary heat exchanger has cracked and it caused rusting on the blower motor due to water dripping on it from the crack. Carrier said both heat exchangers are under warranty. But I have to pay for labor which is $1200. The contractor will also install a bigger air intake box too in this price. I need your suggestions on whether to go ahead with the repairs or just buy another brand furnace (like Amana) with 10 year parts and labor warranty.
12 years old? I would be leaning to replacing. Average life expectancy of HVAC equipment is approximately 15 years based on certain factors like proper installation and proper maintenance/upkeep. Proper installation is very important so make sure you choose a good, reputable contractor.
Amana is the old Goodman/Janitrol junk now owned by the Japanese. Not good units.
Carrier is not reliable either. Better to go with the 80% furnace than these high-efficiency units.
I’ve seen all brands do well if installed properly. And higher efficiency is better on the monthly bill for gas.
Purchased and had installed a new Carrier Infinity furnace, model 58UVB, in 2010. I have it inspected every Fall, replace filters diligently. But I have just had to replace the inducer motor for the second time. That makes three inducer motors in 10 years, at $1050 each. The one that came with the furnace lasted 7 years, was replaced in 2017, and lasted only 3 years. So, Carrier seems to make an inferior product while making large profits on replacement parts. I courteously requested financial assistance today, Nov 9, 2020, and was not so courteously told to just go away, it’s out of warranty. I was, “helpfully” told there is a one year warranty on the replacement inducer motor so I may get lucky and this one will die within a year. So unless you like spending over $1000 every three years to keep your furnace running, you need to shop elsewhere.
I had model 59SC5A (95% efficient) furnace and new AC installed in July of 2016. Yesterday turned the heat on via my wifi thermostat from work and arrived home to no heat. Called the installer after hours and had them come out on a Friday night at $145 just to walk in the door. Diagnosed with a bad gas valve and they DO NOT carry the part and have to order it and will not be repaired until next week. Tech said the part will be covered under warranty but not the labor which I find unacceptable for a $6500 purchase that is 2 years old. I will never recommend a Carrier product ever. This is a complete POS furnace that ruined completely ruined my weekend. Maybe Carrier wants to explain to my daughter why her sleepover party had to be cancelled!!!
I have a Carrier Infinity ICS Ultra Efficient gas furnace and now after 9 YEARS of use, The heat exchanger is supposed to be cracked , it’s going to cost me over a $1000.00 for repairs, the heating company suggests replace versus repair, because if a board goes out like they do at times it will cost $500./$1000. and the variable motor is $$$$$$$. SO a half used the furnace and paying out 1/3 of the new price it does not make sense to repair… In Now your ADDS suggest 20year lifespan… Where IS MY 11 more years of service???? I bought this “TOP OF the LINE” furnace on the belief it was the “BEST” and it would last for around 20plus years… Carrier 10 year Warranty seems to be a JOKE. Now I have to buy a new furnace, chances are it’s not going to be a CARRIER. UNless some $$$$ was knocked off for a 1/2 used trade in.
Sorry to hear as we are considering a new Infinity.
How did this work out? Did you buy a new furnace and get a discount from Carrier?
We had a brand new Carrier Infinity 96 high efficiency furnace installed in a new house in 2006. In 2011, much of it was rusted out due to a malfunctioning heat exchanger — which was also sending carbon monoxide into our house — and the bill for all the repairs was about $2,000. Silly us, we assumed that the replacement heat exchanger would be better, but here we are needing that heat exchanger replaced in January, 2018. We are getting a new furnace, and it won’t be a Carrier.
I have reviewed 4 brands carrier,lennox,rheem, and trane and it appears no one can build a reliable furnace and air conditioning unit anymore. We are looking to replace a 20yr old carrier and are confused by all the negative reviews. Who can we turn to to get good information on these company’s? I know it comes down to the installer but after it is installed and problems come up then it lies on the manufacturing company’s to produce a reliable product, so who is a GOOD! reliable and responsible company we can look into.
and before you answer read the reviews.
We’ve had our Carrier for several years now and it has done good. Time to retire it soon. However, we will not be replacing it with a new Carrier since they announced they are moving to Mexico. We gotta support our people here so we are looking at Lennox and other manufacturers that make their equipment here in the good ole USA!!! Sorry Carrier but I think you made a mistake moving your production facilities out of the country. Sometimes it is more about the people you serve than a bottom line.
lennox is 100% made in Mexico
I didn’t know Stuttgart, AR, Marshalltown, IA, or Carrolton, TX was in Mexico. I’m gonna have to study up on my geography a little better. Thanks
Had our Carrier gas furnace for 4 years now. No complaints. We change our filter on a regular basis and it works fine.