Armstrong began in 1928 and has been a very steady player in the HVAC industry since then. In recent years, the company has been purchased by Allied Air Enterprises, a large manufacturer of commercial HVAC systems. Armstrong adds a top residential brand to the company’s lineup. Other brands owned by Allied include Ducane, Air Ease and Concord.
Armstrong has made a recent push to overhaul its lineup of HVAC components. Efficiency levels increased, modulating products were added and the quality has never been higher. Today, Armstrong is poised to compete with the top brands in the industry. The lineup is most often compared with those from brands like Heil, Ruud and Rheem.
Armstrong makes residential equipment that can be used in light-commercial settings. It does not make heavy-commercial or industrial equipment.
Armstrong Residential HVAC Equipment
You’ll find the whole range of residential products, except for indoor air quality equipment such as air cleaners or energy recovery or heat recovery ventilators. These components include:
- Gas furnaces
- Oil furnaces
- Central air conditioners
- Heat pumps
- Packaged units
- Air handlers
There are several different tiers of Armstrong products, though they’re not divided up into easy categories like, for example, the American Standard Platinum, Gold and Silver Series. Here’s an overview of what you’ll find. You can get more information by seeing our many Armstrong HVAC reviews of individual models.
Armstrong Modulating furnaces: Like most top brands, Armstrong now produces modulating gas furnaces. The gas valve modulates to deliver between 40% and 100% capacity. The results are greater efficiency and energy conservation along with precisely balanced indoor temperatures.
These furnaces have variable-speed blowers for enhanced comfort, efficiency and humidity control. You’ll see a “V” in the model name of furnaces with a variable-speed fan and an “M” to indicate a modulating gas valve.
Armstrong Two-stage models: Furnaces, heat pumps and central air conditioners are made with two-stage performance to increase comfort. The units run on the low stage most of the time for gentler heating and cooling and better climate control. Some models qualify as Energy Star units.
Single-stage models: These are basic models that offer lower costs. There are a few Energy Star models, but most don’t qualify.
Reasons to Buy Armstrong HVAC Equipment
Armstrong now presents a very appealing alternative to the top brands, the ones that are the most expensive including Trane, Carrier and Lennox. You’ll receive outstanding equipment backed by good warranties – though not among the best warranties – and you won’t pay a premium for the brand name. When Armstrong equipment is installed by a qualified contractor with good skill and the system is maintained on a regular basis, it can last as long as systems produced by the leading names in the industry.
Armstrong is a very solid company to consider when replacing a single component or choosing an entire heating and air conditioning system for your home.