Rheem Prestige Series – R96V Review

The Rheem Prestige Series R96V furnace has a variable speed motor technology. It provides humidity control, is quiet in operation, and provides excellent energy savings. The system’s two-stage operation produces a more consistent indoor environment and reduces cold spots. 

It operates at low-speed and switches to high-speed temporarily only during intense cold-weather conditions. That leads to more energy savings. 

In a Nutshell

Average Price (installed): $5,670 - $6,750

Top Features

• 96% AFUE
• Two Stage, Variable Speed ECM Motor
• PlusOne® Ignition System with DSI for more reliable ignition
• PlusOne® Water Management System with a Blocked Drain Sensor
• 4 Way Multi-Poise Design

The Bottom Line 

Rheem Prestige Series R96V offers good energy-efficiency, quiet operation, and reliable service. With the AFUE of 96%, customers can benefit from reduced energy bills without compromising heating quality. Additional features include a sophisticated ignition system and water management system that ensures Rheem Prestige Series R96V is safe to use and built to last. 

In Depth Review 

Rheem Prestige Series R96V Product Specifications

• Sub-models available: R96VA0402317MSA, R96VA0602317MSA, R96VA0702317MSA, R96VA0852521MSB, R96VA1002521MSA, R96VA1152524MSA
• BTU input: 42,000 - 112,000
• BTU output: 41,000 - 109,000
• ENERGY STAR ® Certified 
• 96% residential gas furnace CSA certified

Solid Construction

Rheem Prestige Series R96V has aluminized steel in primary construction and stainless steel in secondary construction. These materials are corrosion resistant, which improves the lifespan of the product. The furnace also offers better thermal fatigue reliability.

Peace and Efficiency 

Rheem’s new patented heat exchanger design provides much smoother air flow. Its variable-speed ECM motor is quieter during operation. Both of these components help reduce noise by 20%. You can enjoy a more peaceful environment in your home without compromising on efficiency. 

Reliability and Safety

The company’s PlusOne Ignition System is one of the most reliable in the industry. Direct Spark Ignition lights up the furnace without delay and the need of relying on a pilot. The PlusOne Water Management System shuts down the furnace whenever it detects a blocked drain. This prevents water spills and limits water damage. 

Other Key Features

• PlusOne® Diagnostics 7-Segment LED for quick and easy service.
• Engineered for superior humidity control with lower power consumption. 
• Savings on both installation and maintenance costs. 
• Indoor installation. 
• EcoNet® enabled HVAC Product. 
• Compatible by Single or Two-Stage thermostats. (Two-stage recommended)

Warranty Information 

The product comes with a 10-year limited warranty on parts. Customers also get a limited lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger. It’s a good idea to register the product with Rheem to benefit from warranty services, extend the warranty, or to place a service call.

Comparable Models by Rheem

Model Comparison by Lower Price

If you’re looking for energy savings, consider the Rheem Classic Plus Series R95T. It is ENERGY STAR certified, offers 95% AFUE, is in the mid-price range, and offers a good warranty. Like the Prestige Series R96V, it also offers 20% quieter operation and an ECM motor. You’ll only have to compromise a little on energy efficiency as the R96V can provide more savings in the long run. 

Model Comparison by Features

The Rheem Classic Plus Series R96T furnace has similar features to the Prestige Series R96V. It also has a two-stage ECM motor with 20% quieter operation. It offers an AFUE of 96% and comes with a good warranty. 

Model Comparison by Premium Tier

The Rheem Prestige Series R98V furnace is a step up with 98% AFUE with one of the best energy efficiency ratings in the industry. If you’re willing to splurge a little, this product might be a good option. It has a 2 percentage point higher rating than Rheem Prestige Series R96V, which translates into better savings and superior performance over a long term.