The York brand is nearly 150 years old and has stood for HVAC engineering and innovation. Fortune Global 500 company Johnson Controls acquired York in 2005. Today, York heat pumps are identical in all but name to Johnson Control brands Coleman and Luxaire.
In terms of product offerings, York provides different models, including single-stage, two-stage, and variable-capacity heat pumps, which allow consumers to choose based on their specific needs and the size of the space they are looking to condition.
How York Heat Pumps Compare With Other Brands
When evaluating York heat pumps against other major HVAC manufacturers, several key factors come into play. Let’s examine how York stacks up against its competitors in crucial areas that matter most to homeowners.
Efficiency Ratings
York heat pumps generally offer competitive efficiency ratings, though they may not lead the pack. Their top-tier models reach up to 20 SEER and 10 HSPF, which is comparable to mid-range offerings from Carrier and Trane. However, premium models from Lennox and Carrier can achieve slightly higher ratings (up to 24 SEER). Despite not having the highest efficiency ratings in the industry, York’s units still exceed ENERGY STAR requirements and provide substantial energy savings for homeowners.
Price Point and Value
One of York’s strongest advantages is its pricing strategy. York heat pumps typically cost 10-15% less than equivalent models from premium brands like Carrier, Trane, and Lennox. A mid-range York heat pump system, including installation, generally ranges from $4,500 to $7,500, while comparable systems from premium brands often exceed $8,000. This makes York an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking reliable performance without the premium price tag.
Durability and Reliability
York heat pumps demonstrate reasonable reliability, though they may not match the legendary durability of brands like Trane or Carrier. Consumer reports and contractor feedback suggest that York units typically last 12-15 years with proper maintenance, which is within the industry standard range. However, premium brands often boast slightly longer average lifespans of 15-20 years.
Technology and Features
York’s technology package is competitive but not industry-leading. Their units offer:
- QuietDrive™ comfort system for reduced noise levels
- Climate Set™ technology for enhanced temperature control
- Wi-Fi enabled controls with smartphone integration
While these features are practical, brands like Carrier and Lennox often offer more advanced proprietary technologies and smart home integration options.
Warranty Coverage
York’s warranty program is on par with industry standards, offering:
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- 10-year limited warranty on compressor
- 10-year limited warranty on parts
- Optional extended warranty plans
This coverage matches what most major competitors offer, though some premium brands provide better labor warranties or longer coverage periods for registered products.
Customer Support and Dealer Network
York’s dealer network, while substantial, is not as extensive as those of Carrier or Trane. However, they maintain strong training programs for their certified installers and provide decent customer support. The company’s commitment to dealer education helps ensure proper installation and maintenance, though availability of certified technicians may be limited in some areas.
In conclusion, York heat pumps position themselves as a solid mid-tier option in the HVAC market. While they may not lead in premium features or absolute highest efficiency ratings, they offer reliable performance and good value for money. Their units are particularly attractive to homeowners seeking a balance between quality and affordability. When compared to premium brands, York’s primary advantage lies in its competitive pricing, while still maintaining acceptable standards in technology, efficiency, and reliability.
York Heat Pump Features
There are a few York features that make this brand unique (though it shares these features with Luxaire and Coleman models).
York Climate Set is a series of settings that can be adjusted to your climate. It’s available on the Affinity Series. For example, in humid climates, longer, lower-capacity cycles remove more summer humidity than high-capacity cycles, so the unit can be tuned for that purpose. The settings make it easy for the technician to tune the Affinity heat pumps to normal, dry or humid settings.
The LX YHM heat pump with 16 SEER/9 HSPF efficiency is the variable-capacity model in the mid-level efficiency range. Most variable-capacity, aka modulating, heat pumps are 19+ SEER models. This heat pump gives you the option of lower cost than premium-efficiency models but the maximum climate control and indoor comfort that a variable-capacity compressor system provides.
All Affinity Series heat pumps feature technology York calls QuietDrive. The units are built with fans that have angled wings for quieter operation. The base pan is composite rather than steel, so it reduces vibration noise.
In recent years, more heat pump brands are offering longer warranties on critical parts. York now offers a lifetime warranty on its Affinity Series compressors.
Price Point
In comparison to similar systems from competitors like Trane, York heat pumps are often more affordable. They can be $100 to $800 less expensive, making them an attractive option for those seeking both quality and value.
Reliability and Performance
When it comes to reliability, York heat pumps hold a commendable position. They are known to offer consistent performance, which is a crucial factor for homeowners who depend on their heating and cooling systems throughout the seasons.
Unique Features and Model Analysis
| Model | SEER | HSPF | Compressor | Communicating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Affinity YZV | 20 | 11 | Variable | Optional |
| Affinity YZH | 18 | 10 | 2-Stage | Optional |
| Affinity YZF | 16 | 9 | Single-Stage | Optional |
| LX YHM | 16 | 9 | Variable | No |
| LX YHJF | 14.5 | 8.5 | Single-Stage | No |
| LX YHE | 14 | 8.2 | Single-Stage | No |
Quick Take-Aways for Models
When you’re looking for the most cost-effective heating, the strategy is to find the balance between furnace cost and energy costs. Let’s use the zone map to identify efficiency levels for each that strike that balance:
|
Zone
|
Suggested SEER and HPSF
|
Cost-effective Models
|
| Zones 1 & 2 (hot) | 18-19 SEER/9.5-10 HSPF |
Affinity YZV
|
| Zone 3 & 4 (moderate) | 14-15 SEER/8.5 HSPF |
YHM, YHJF, YHE, Affinity YZF
|
| Zone 5 (cool) | 15-17 SEER/8.5-9.5 HSPF |
Affinity YZH
|
| Zone 6 (cold) | (18 SEER/9.5 HSPF) or (AC + Furnace) | Affinity YZV or (AC + Furnace) |
| Zone 7 (very cold) | (18 SEER/9.5 HSPF) or (AC + Furnace) | AC + Furnace |
| Plan to move in the next few years | 13-14 SEER/8 HSPF | YHE |
Note: In Zones 6 and 7, the coldest zones, a system with an efficient gas furnace and small central air conditioner is also a good option.
York Heat Pump Prices By Model
In order to offer an objective and equal comparison, we set the baseline below:
Each model includes: 3 ton outdoor condenser, 1300-1400 CFM air handler, programmable heat pump thermostat.
| Models | System Only | System Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Affinity YZV 20 SEER | $2,580 | $6,050 |
| Affinity YZH 18 SEER | $2,140 | $5,220 |
| Affinity YZF 16 SEER | $1,750 | $4,780 |
| YHM 16 SEER | $1,595 | $4,525 |
| YHJF 14.5 SEER | $1,385 | $4,155 |
York Heat Pump Prices By Size
Before installing your heat pump, an HVAC contractor needs to size your system by “Manual J” calculation. This will take into accounts factors like where you live, how much insulation you have, windows types and directions, and everything else. Then you will get a right-sized heat pump unit ranging from 1.5-ton to 5-ton.
Each Unit includes: York 14 SEER 3-ton outdoor condenser, 1300-1400 CFM air handler, programmable heat pump thermostat.
| Heat Pump Size | Home Size | System Only | System Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 ton | 600 - 1000 sf | $1,210 | $4,150 |
| 2 ton | 1001 - 1300 sf | $1,430 | $4,550 |
| 2.5 ton | 1301 - 1600 sf | $1,620 | $4,870 |
| 3 ton | 1601 - 1900 sf | $1,850 | $5,150 |
| 3.5 ton | 1901 - 2200 sf | $2,125 | $5,495 |
| 4 ton | 2201 - 2600 sf | $2,350 | $5,770 |
| 5 ton | 2601 - 3200 sf | $2,865 | $6,595 |
How to Get the Best York 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.
York Heat Pump Customers Reviews
Customers have shared mixed feedback about York heat pumps, which range from 13 SEER 7.7 HSPF to 20 SEER 11 HSPF. Some reviews highlight the brand’s budget-friendly options which seem to cater well to those conscious of upfront costs.
- Efficiency Concerns: While York is recognized for offering heat pumps with a broad efficiency range, it appears consumers are encouraged to thoroughly inquire about the specifics to ensure their purchase meets their expectations for both efficiency and performance.
- Reliability Reports: There have been multiple points of view regarding the reliability of York heat pumps. Some customers have been satisfied with their durability over time, suggesting a degree of resilience to different climates.
- Customer Service Experience: Feedback indicates that after-sales support and customer service experiences vary. It’s advisable for potential buyers to consider the level and quality of customer service when choosing a heat pump.
- Installation Feedback: The success of York heat pumps also heavily depends on proper installation. Reviews often mention the importance of a credible and experienced HVAC technician to ensure the unit operates to its highest potential.
Italics should note that experiences with heat pumps can be subjective, and would-be buyers are recommended to seek out a variety of reviews and perform thorough research before making a decision.
