Ruud heat pumps are considered average to slightly above average in quality and reliability. Ruud and Rheem heat pumps are identical – something worth knowing as you compare heat pump prices among major brands.
About Ruud
The Ruud name came to America when Edwin Ruud emigrated from Norway and developed the first automatic water heater in 1889. In the 1950’s the company began to develop heating and air conditioning appliances.
In 1960, Ruud was bought out by Rheem, another well-known producer of HVAC and other products. The Ruud line was kept, however, and is now manufactured in the same Fort Smith, Arkansas plant as Rheem. In 1988, Paloma Industries purchased Rheem and Ruud brands.
Ruud HVAC products are considered a good value, combining decent quality with fair pricing. They don’t quite reach the quality level of Trane or Carrier heat pumps, and the top efficiency levels are not as high, but Ruud heat pumps don’t cost as much either.
Ruud’s Unique Features
Ruud, like Rheem, has recently upgraded its features and efficiency. Here are highlights of what’s available.
Variable-Speed Technology
Ruud’s Variable Speed Heat Pumps provide cooling efficiencies up to 54% higher, and heating efficiencies up to 58% higher than single stage heat pumps. Ruud inverter-driven technology, now common in the residential HVAC industry, provides precision heating and cooling.
3-Stage Technology
We’re not aware of another brand, other than Rheem, that also manufactures a 3-stage heat pump. Most have 1 stage, 2 stage and variable capacity heat pumps.
The inverter driven, three-stage compressor provides heating down to 7°F, which is also unique.
Easier Maintenance and Repairs with PlusOne Triple Service Access
This is a 15″ wide, industry-leading corner service access. The three fastener removable corner allows optimal access to internal unit components for faster coil cleaning and easier cabinet reassembly. It is available on all except the Choice Series and side-discharge units.
EcoNet
Most brands offer something like this in their mid-tier and premium models. The EcoNet system and thermostat send you important alerts and reminders to keep your system working at its best. Plus, it’s easy to adjust your comfort settings from home or away with WiFi. Available on Ruud’s Ultra and Achiever Plus Series Units.
Ten-Year Unit Replacement Warranty
This warranty is standard for Ultra and Achiever Plus Series models and equals most other leading brands. Many brands are adopting a unit replacement warranty that provides for a new condensing unit, not just part replacement, if the compressor or the outdoor coil fails.
Other Warranties
The rest of the warranties are average or shorter when compared with competitors. Achiever Series comes with Ruud’s 10-year parts warranty, while the Choice Series provides a 5-year parts warranty. Lennox is the only other major brand that has warranties as short as 5 years on its most affordable units.
Ruud Pros
Known for their quality, affordability, and dependability.
Good selection of models including a space-saving side discharge unit.
The only brand (Rheem/Ruud) with a 3-stage compressor.
EcoNet Smart Thermostat system offers popular wireless control.
Stylish cabinets with easy access corner panels are ahead of the field.
Ruud Cons
Not the highest SEER ratings in the HVAC industry. The most efficient models from most brands are above 20 SEER, some as high as 24-28.
Shorter warranties on entry-level heat pumps.
Some consumers have had issues with leaking refrigerant in extreme conditions.
Ruud Heat Pump Model Analysis
Below you will find a quick reference chart to help you compare important details of the various models. For more details, see the Product Lineup and Features section.
| Model | SEER and HSPF | Compressor | Sound |
|---|---|---|---|
| UP20 | 20.5 and 11.5 | Variable-Speed | 58-73 dBA |
| UP17 | 18.5 and 9.5 | 3-Stage | 66-75 dBA |
| UP**H | 19 and 10.7 | Variable Rotary | 53-55 dBA |
| RP16 | 16 and 9.0 | 2-Stage | 71-76 dBA |
| RP15 | 15 and 9.0 | 1-Stage | 73-76 dBA |
| RP14 | 14 and 9.0 | 1-Stage | 71-75 dBA |
| RP14**F | 14.5 and 8.5 | 1-Stage | 73-76 dBA |
| WP14**A | 14 and 8.5 | 1-Stage | 72-77 dBA |
| WP14**F | 14 and 8.5 | 1-Stage | 75-77 dBA |
Ruud Heat Pump Cost by Model
| Model | Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| UP20 | $9,600 – $12,350 |
| UP17 | $8,300 – $11,550 |
| UP**H | $7,900 – $11,000 |
| RP16 | $7,600 – $10,750 |
| RP15 | $6,100 – $8,700 |
| RP14**F | $5,400 – $7,700 |
| RP14 | $5,000 – $7,300 |
| WP14**A | $4,800 – $7,200 |
| WP14**F | $4,400 – $6,800 |
Product Lineup and Features
Four main series make up the Ruud lineup of heat pumps. Cooling capacities range from 18,000 BTU (1.5 tons) to 60,000 BTU (5 tons). Efficiencies run between a low end of 14 to 20 on the high end.
The Ultra Series
UP20
Inverter-Driven Variable Speed Compressor
Cooling and Heating Efficiencies up to 20 SEER and 11.5 HSPF – Energy Star
EcoNet Enabled
Warranty: 10-Year Parts and 10-Year Conditional Unit Replacement
The Achiever Plus Series
UP17
Three-Stage Compressor
18.5 SEER and 9.5 HSPF – Energy Star
EcoNet Enabled
Warranty: 10-Year Parts and 10-Year Conditional Unit Replacement
UP**H Side Discharge
Matched with Air Handler RHMV*****N to Offer a Sound & Space Constraint Solution
Variable Speed Inverter-Driven Rotary Compressor
19 SEER and 10.7 HSPF – Energy Star
Warranty: 10-Year Parts
*Not available from Rheem
The Achiever Series
UP16
Two-Stage Compressor
16 SEER and 9.0 HSPF – Energy Star
Composite basepan won’t corrode or vibrate
Warranty: 10-Year Parts
RP15
Single-Stage Compressor
15 SEER and 9 HSPF – Energy Star
Warranty: 10-Year Parts
RP14
Single Stage
14 SEER and 9 HSPF
Warranty: 10-Year Parts
RP14**F
The RP14**F series is designed to achieve 14 SEER with Coil only (for the dual fuel market) and PSC Air Handlers match ups
Single-Stage Compressor
14.5 SEER and 8.5 HSPF
Warranty: 10-Year Parts
The Choice Series
WP14**A
Not Available in Canada
Single-Stage Compressor
14 SEER and 8.5 HSPF
Warranty: 5-Year Parts
WP14**F
Not Available in Canada
Single-Stage Compressor
14 SEER and 8.5 HSPF
Warranty: 5-Year Parts
Consumer Reviews and Ratings For Ruud Heat pump
When you’re considering a Ruud Heat Pump, it’s essential to look at what other consumers have to say about their experiences. Reviews and ratings can give you insights into the reliability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction associated with these units.
Average Rating: Ruud heat pumps often have an average rating between 3 to 4 stars out of 5 across various consumer platforms. These ratings reflect a mix of customer experiences, ranging from highly satisfied to some facing issues.
Use online review aggregators, such as:
- Consumer Affairs
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- HVAC forums
You will find reviews covering aspects like:
- Energy efficiency
- Durability
- Noise levels
- Warranty
Comments from users often highlight the quiet operation and energy cost savings they’ve noticed. However, some point out concerns over the longevity of certain models or difficulties with customer service.
Pros frequently mentioned by users:
- Efficient heating and cooling
- Cost-effective operation
- Robust warranty options
Cons as noted in some reviews:
- Occasional technical glitches
- Varied customer service experience
- Installation dependent performance
How to Get the Best Ruud Heat Pump Prices?
- Firstly, keep in mind that installation quality is always the most important thing for heat pump project. So never sacrifice contractor quality for lower price.
- Secondly, remember to look up the latest tax credit and rebates.
- Thirdly, ask for at least 3 bids before you make the decision. You can click here to get 3 free estimates from your local contractors, and this estimate already takes rebates and tax credit into consideration and filter unqualified contractors automatically.
At last, once you chose the right contractor, remember to use the tactics from this guide: homeowners tactics when negotiating with HVAC dealer to get the final best price.
Feel free to ask any question by leaving a comment, we will answer any question with actionable tips.
Ruud vs Trane Heat Pump
When comparing Ruud and Trane heat pumps, efficiency is a crucial factor for you to consider. Ruud heat pumps offer SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings ranging from 15.5 to 20.5. In contrast, Trane heat pumps offer SEER ratings from 14.5 to 20.
Regarding durability, Trane units often feature weatherproofing advancements like the WeatherGuard™ technology, aiming for longer life spans. Ruud systems are also durable, with models boasting Composite Base Pans to reduce corrosion.
For comfort features, Trane provides ComfortLink II technology, allowing you to control your system remotely and potentially optimize your home environment. Ruud’s EcoNet™ Control System offers similar functionality with convenient operation and energy usage tracking.
You’ll find warranty considerations vital. Ruud typically offers 10-year limited warranties on parts. Trane often stands out with a 12-year compressor warranty and a 10-year parts warranty on specific models.
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