Unofficial Guide to heat pump brands

Notable Cold-Climate Model

Hyper-Heating INVERTER (H2i) Technology

Pros

- Best for Extreme Cold: Maintains high heating capacity down to −13∘F (some models rated to −22∘F).

- Excellent Reliability & Customer Satisfaction

- Whisper-Quiet Operation: Typically the quietest indoor units.- Requires a certified "Diamond Dealer" for best warranty coverage. 

- We installed 79 Mitsubishi systems in 2024, by far the most of any brand Stateline has worked with.

Cons

- High Upfront Cost: Often one of the most expensive brands to purchase and install.

- Proprietary Parts: Repairs can sometimes be more costly due to specialized parts and certified dealer networks.

Notable Cold-Climate Model

Infinity Series with Greenspeed® Intelligence 

Pros

- Excellent Low-Temperature Performance: Top models operate efficiently down to  and can maintain capacity at .- 

- Ultra-High Efficiency: Offers some of the highest SEER and HSPF ratings in the industry (up to 13.5 HSPF).

- Advanced Diagnostics: Greenspeed® technology allows for fine-tuning and easier troubleshooting via a diagnostic app.

Cons

-Premium Price: Carrier Infinity systems are in the high-end price bracket.

- Service and parts can be more expensive.

Notable Cold-Climate Model

SL25XPV with Precise Comfort® 

Pros

- Highest Efficiency Potential: Known for ultra-high efficiency ratings (excellent HSPF and SEER2 ratings).

- Extremely Quiet Operation: Many models feature proprietary SilentComfort™ technology.

-  Includes Labor Warranty: Some models, like the SL25XPV, include a limited labor warranty (e.g., 3 years), which is rare. 

Cons

- Very High Upfront Cost: Often the most expensive option.- - Proprietary Parts: Repairs may be costly due to specialized parts only available through Lennox dealers.

Notable Cold-Climate Model

XV20i TruComfort™ 

Pros

- Exceptional Durability and Reliability: Built with rugged materials like all-aluminum Spine Fin™ coils.

- Dual-Fuel Integration: Excellent choice for a hybrid system with a gas furnace backup for the harshest days.

- Consistent Performance: Known for maintaining strong, reliable heat output (e.g., 100 degree supply air at 0 degree ambient).

Cons

- High-End Price: Trane's premium models are in the upper price range. 

- May not reach the absolute highest efficiency ratings of Carrier or Lennox

- Labor coverage is typically separate from the parts warranty.  

Notable Cold-Climate Model/Technology

Daikin Fit / Aurora Series (Ductless)

Pros

- Largest HVAC Manufacturer Globally: Strong reputation for engineering and innovation.

- Very High Efficiency: Excellent HSPF ratings, especially in milder winter conditions.

- Versatile Options: Strong offerings in both ducted and space-saving ductless/mini-split systems

Cons

- Cold Weather Kit Needed: Some cold-climate models require an optional drain pan heater/cold kit for best performance in the deepest cold.

- Efficiency may drop off slightly faster than Mitsubishi in extreme sub-zero temperatures.

- Outdoor unit can sometimes be slightly louder than a Mitsubishi. 

Notable Cold-Climate Model

IDS Ultra / IDS Premium Connected 

Pros

- Excellent Overall Value: Provides premium, modulating performance at a lower price point than Carrier or Lennox.

- Inverter Technology: Compressor modulates in 1% increments for precise temperature control and high efficiency

- Quiet Operation (around 60dB). 

Cons

- Limited Lowest-Temp Rating: The operating range may not extend as low as the top-tier Mitsubishi or Carrier models without a cold weather kit.

- Less established cold-climate reputation compared to the Japanese mini-split specialists (Mitsubishi/Daikin).