Bryant vs Ruud AC prices, pros and cons

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Choosing between Bryant vs. Ruud ACs involves considering air conditioner prices, quality, energy efficiency and the types of warranties offered.

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About Bryant and Ruud

Bryant was founded in 1904 and is now a division of the Carrier Corporation, which is owned by United Technologies.

Ruud heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) equipment was introduced to the Ruud product line in the 1950s. Ruud is part of the Rheem Manufacturing Company.

Energy efficiency

If your air conditioner was made before 2006, you could save money in the long run if you install a new air conditioner. Air conditioners have seasonal energy-efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings, which are a measurement of how efficiently an AC unit cools an area during the course of a season. Since 2006, the minimum SEER rating allowed is 13, but SEER ratings can range up to 25.

Bryant air conditioners

In considering Bryant vs. Ruud ACs, the list of pros and cons for Bryant ACs is as follows:

Pros

• SEER ratings ranging from 16.5 to 20.
• Uses DuraGuard to protect AC units from weather elements.
• Offers a compact model for apartments or for installations in small areas, such as balconies.
• Offers a variety of models to accommodate different budgets.
• Financing available.
• A 10-year limited warranty for standard parts.
• Optional labor warranties.

Cons

• No models under 16.5 SEER.
• No Comfort Control System, which would cut costs by making repairs easier.
• No SEER above 20.

Rudd air conditioners

When making a choice between Bryant vs. Ruud ACs, the pros and cons of Ruud include:

Pros

• SEERS ranging from 16 to 19.5.
• Offers a variety of models to accommodate different budgets.
• Cabinet and design offer durability and allow for easy repairs.
• Low-profile units are less noticeable in your yard.
• Some units use a Comfort Control System, Comfort Control2 System or Comfort Alert, which cuts maintenance and repair costs.
• Offers a model that can be wired with noncommunicating Ruud Ultra air handlers or furnaces, in case you want to keep your old thermostat.
• A 10-year conditional limited parts and compressor warranty for basic models.
• A 10-year conditional unit replacement warranty and 10-year parts warranty for top-line models.

Cons

• No models under 16 SEER.
• No SEER above 19.5.

Pricing

According to Energy Star, the lifetime cost to operate a Ruud AC is slightly less than to operate a comparable Bryant AC. Neither brand offers AC units with SEER ratings under 16.

If you live in a climate where you don't run your air conditioner heavily, a lower SEER might suffice and the unit could be cheaper. A SEER ranging from 13 to 16 is considered the low end of the SEER scale for such conditions.

If you opt for the labor warranty offered by Bryant, maintenance and repair costs might be on par with Ruud's Comfort Control System.

Comparing Bryant vs. Ruud ACs shows an almost even match. Once you've researched your options, you'll need to get an estimate before you hire a contractor to install the air conditioner.