Bryant heat pumps are efficient and are backed by a solid warranty. Bryant is owned by the same company that owns Carrier, and their product lineups are very similar. Bryant doesn’t have the same respect that Carries does, but it deserves it.
In this overview of Bryant heat pumps, you can read about the differences in the lines, key features of each and prices that will help you decide which ones are worth learning more about. See our individual heat pump reviews for many of these models. We include HVAC prices in all our HVAC reviews, so you can make an informed decision every time.
Like many of the top manufacturers, Carrier makes 3 separate lines in a good/better/best scenario. Starting with the top Evolution line, here’s an overview.
Bryant Evolution System Heat Pumps: This collection compares favorably with Trane XL and Dave Lennox Signature. It’s a short step behind Carrier Infinity in that the top models are not as efficient. However, these are all Energy Star rated.
These are all 2-stage heat pumps, though a modulated heat pump from Bryant is expected at any time. Two-stage heating and cooling comfort is maximized with the use of a variable-speed air handler. These are also dual fuel heat pumps and can be installed with a gas furnace in colder climates. The current Evolution lineup is this: Evolution 289B (19 SEER, 9.5 HSPF), Evolution 286B (17 SEER, 9.75 HSPF), and the Evolution 285B (16 SEER, 9.0 HSPF).
Bryant Preferred Series Heat Pumps: All of these models are also Energy Star rated. The 22bA is a 2-stage model; the rest are single-stage. The models are the Preferred Series 226A (16.5 SEER, 9.5 HSPF), Preferred Series 225B (16 SEER, 9.0 HSPF), the Preferred Series 223A (15.5 SEER, 8.8 HSPF), and the compact Preferred 538B (15.5 SEER, 9.0 HSPF).
Bryant Legacy Line Heat Pumps: Don’t overlook these heat pumps. There are better than the “entry level” heat pumps from most brands. Both models are Energy Star rated and backed by a good warranty. The models are the Legacy Line 215B (16 SEER, 9.0 HSPF) and the Legacy Line 213B (15 SEER, 8.2 HSPF) and they offer very good performance and value.
If you live where winters are freezing cold on a regular basis, the Evolution Series dual fuel models are the top choice for sure. Due to the higher SEER air conditioning ratings, they are also best for very hot, long summers.
The Preferred Series is a step down in efficiency, but a lower-cost alternative to the Evolution System. Choose a Preferred heat pump in cool-warm climates. The Legacy Line offers the lowest cost and the most basic performance. Choose a Legacy model when lower price is the most important factor in your decision.
For comparison’s sake, here are approximate prices. You’ll need to talk to a qualified contractor – in fact, you should get estimates from at least 3 – in order to get the best current prices in your area. The spectrum of prices reflects that models range in size from 1.5 ton to 5.0 ton and that there may be many models in each line.
Bryant Evolution heat pump prices: $2,600-$4,700
Bryant Preferred heat pump prices: $2,200-$3,900
Bryant Legacy heat pump prices: $1,600-$3,100
Take time to read our Bryant heat pump reviews and ratings for details on the models that interest you. They provide a great way to compare models head to head as you research your next heat pump.