Rheem Prestige Series – R97V Review

The Rheem Prestige Series R97V furnace is an EcoNet enabled appliance with an ECM motor and modulating operation. It is 20% quieter in operation and has a variable speed motor to distribute treated air evenly throughout the room. The design reduces the chances of cold spots and controls humidity without increasing energy consumption. 

This product comes with a 97% AFUE rating and is ENERGY STAR ® rated, which helps owners save money on utility bills in the long-run. 

In a Nutshell 

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

Top Features

• 97% AFUE rating.
• EcoNet® enabled HVAC Product.
• PlusOne® Ignition System with DSI for reliable ignition.
• PlusOne® Water Management System with Blocked Drain Sensor to prevent water spills.
• 97% residential gas furnace CSA certified.

The Bottom Line

The Prestige Series R97V is an efficient ENERGY STAR rated product with a proven track record when it comes to energy savings. As a premium tier product, it has Rheem’s most sophisticated technology and construction so it will perform well for a long time. 

In Depth Review 

Rheem Prestige Series R97V Product Specifications 

• Sub-models available: R97VA060M317U, R97VA070M317U, R97VA085M521U, R97VA100M521U, R97VA115M524U, R97VA060M317K, R97VA070M317K, R97VA085M521K, R97VA100M521K, R97VA115M524K
• BTU input: 56,000-112,000
• BTU output: 55,000-110,000
• Modulating, Variable-Speed ECM Compressor Type

Two Stage

With a two-stage thermostat, the furnace operates at 40% of capacity at the first stage, moves up to 65%, and then functions at 100% at the second stage. 

Modulation Function

If you use this furnace with the EcoNet Control Center modulating thermostat, it has a modulation rate of 40 to 100% of the furnace’s total capacity.

Multistage Function 

When working with a single-stage thermostat, the furnace operates at 40%, 65%, and 100% of full capacity based on the settings. 

All three types of operation help maintain indoor temperature and reduce energy bills, which means owners save money in the long run. 

Quiet, Efficient, and Beneficial 

The reduced noise and consistent heating improve the indoor environment without straining the system or consuming more energy. Because this product has a 97% AFUE, you might be eligible for local Utility Rebates on lower energy consumption. 

Other Key Features

• Removable heat exchanger for easier repair or replacement. 
• Works efficiently with the EcoNet Control Center. 
• Available in upflow, downflow, and horizontal models.

Warranty Information

The Rheem Prestige Series R97V comes with a 10-year limited warranty on parts and a limited lifetime heat exchanger warranty. This is a premium tier product so you also get a limited conditional unit replacement warranty in case your furnace malfunctions within the conditions of the warranty. 

Comparable Models by Rheem

Model Comparison by Lower Price

The Prestige Series RGGE model offers a similar warranty and is quite efficient. It has a 2-Speed induced draft motor that provides better airflow and 20% quieter operation. The compressor type is modulating, variable-speed ECM. It is ENERGY STAR certified and comes with a 91% to 92.3% AFUE rating. 

Model Comparison by Features

The Prestige Series R96V falls in the same category and offers similar features at a slightly lower price. It has a two-stage, variable speed ECM motor that is energy efficient and quiet. The model is ENERGY STAR certified and with a 96% AFUE, it will help lower energy bills and save money over the long-run. This model doesn’t have a modulating operation for superior comfort and energy savings, but the lower cost makes it a suitable alternative to the R97V.

Model Comparison by Premium Tier

The Rheem Prestige Series R98V are considered as some of the most energy-efficient furnaces in the market. This product has a 98.7% AFUE rating and is ENERGY STAR rated as well. The R98V has an ECM motor with modulating operation for better heating. All of these factors mean that the R98V works just as well as the R97V, but offers superior energy savings and has a higher rating.