Who Manufactures Amana

Understanding who manufactures Amana appliances, particularly their HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, is crucial when making a purchasing decision. While the Amana brand has a long history, its ownership has shifted over time. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the company behind Amana, its manufacturing processes, and what that means for you as a consumer.

Amana's Current Parent Company: Goodman Global

The Amana brand, specifically for HVAC equipment, is currently owned and manufactured by Goodman Global, Inc. Goodman Global is a subsidiary of Daikin Industries, Ltd., a Japanese multinational air conditioning manufacturing company. This is important to understand, as purchasing an Amana unit means you're ultimately dealing with a product backed by the resources and technology of Daikin, a global leader in the HVAC industry.

A Brief History of Amana

To fully appreciate Amana's current standing, a quick historical overview is helpful. The Amana Corporation, originally known for its refrigerators and other appliances, was founded in 1934. Over the years, the brand changed hands several times. In 1997, Goodman Global acquired the Amana Appliances division. Later, Goodman focused more on HVAC systems and eventually the appliance division was sold to Maytag (which was later acquired by Whirlpool). This means if you are looking at refrigerators, they are manufactured by a different company. This article will focus on HVAC systems specifically manufactured by Goodman Global.

Key takeaway: While Amana has a long history, the Amana HVAC products you find today are manufactured by Goodman Global, a Daikin subsidiary.

Goodman Global: A Closer Look

Goodman Global is a significant player in the North American HVAC market. They manufacture a wide range of residential and light commercial heating and cooling systems. Their product line includes air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, air handlers, and packaged units.

Goodman's Strength: Goodman's strength lies in providing cost-effective HVAC solutions. They aim to offer reliable performance at a competitive price point. The Amana brand, under Goodman's ownership, reflects this philosophy, offering a balance of features and affordability. The product line is positioned between the entry-level Goodman brand and the premium Daikin brand. Daikin products are often more expensive, but they offer more advanced features and technology.

Manufacturing Locations and Processes

Goodman Global operates several manufacturing facilities in the United States, primarily located in:

Waller, Texas: This is Goodman's primary manufacturing campus and is where many Amana HVAC units are assembled.
Fayetteville, Tennessee: Another significant manufacturing facility for Goodman.

These facilities are equipped with modern manufacturing technology and adhere to rigorous quality control standards. Daikin's global manufacturing expertise significantly influences Goodman's processes, ensuring consistent quality and performance across their product lines. This includes the Amana brand.

Components and Technology

While the *assembly* of Amana units happens in the United States, it is important to note that some *components* are sourced globally. This is common practice in the HVAC industry. However, Goodman emphasizes quality control throughout the supply chain. Key components, like compressors and heat exchangers, are often sourced from reputable suppliers with a proven track record.

Daikin's research and development efforts also benefit the Amana product line. Some of the technologies developed by Daikin, such as advanced compressor designs and smart controls, may eventually find their way into Amana units. This allows Amana to offer features and performance levels that are competitive with other brands in its price range.

Amana's Product Line: What to Expect

Amana offers a diverse range of HVAC products, catering to different needs and budgets. Here's a general overview:

Air Conditioners: Amana air conditioners are available in various efficiency levels, measured by SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). Higher SEER ratings indicate greater energy efficiency. Amana offers models ranging from basic, entry-level units to more advanced, high-efficiency models.
Furnaces: Amana furnaces also come in different efficiency levels, measured by AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). Higher AFUE ratings mean the furnace converts more fuel into usable heat. Amana offers a selection of gas furnaces with varying AFUE ratings to suit different climates and budgets.
Heat Pumps: Amana heat pumps provide both heating and cooling. They are particularly effective in moderate climates. Like air conditioners, heat pumps are rated by SEER for cooling efficiency and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) for heating efficiency.
Packaged Units: Amana also offers packaged units, which combine all the heating and cooling components into a single outdoor unit. These are often used in homes without a separate furnace and air conditioner.

Amana's Key Features and Technologies

Amana HVAC systems incorporate several features designed to improve performance, efficiency, and reliability. Some common features include:

High-Efficiency Compressors: Amana uses scroll compressors in many of its air conditioners and heat pumps. Scroll compressors are known for their efficiency and quiet operation.
Durable Heat Exchangers: The heat exchanger is a critical component in a furnace. Amana uses durable heat exchanger designs to ensure long-lasting performance.
Smart Controls: Some Amana models are compatible with smart thermostats, allowing homeowners to control their HVAC system remotely and optimize energy usage.
ComfortBridge Technology: This proprietary technology allows certain Amana units to communicate seamlessly with compatible thermostats for enhanced comfort and energy savings.

What This Means for You: Making an Informed Decision

Understanding that Goodman Global manufactures Amana HVAC equipment, with the backing of Daikin Industries, helps you make a more informed decision. Here's how:

Reliability: You can expect a reasonably reliable product, backed by a company with significant resources and manufacturing expertise. Goodman's quality control standards, influenced by Daikin, contribute to the overall reliability of Amana units.
Affordability: Amana offers a good balance of features and affordability. It is positioned to compete with other mid-range HVAC brands.
Warranty: Amana offers competitive warranties on its HVAC systems. Be sure to carefully review the warranty terms and conditions before purchasing. The *Amana* brand offers an enhanced warranty option called the "Asure" program that you should ask your dealer about for qualified installations.
Service and Support: Goodman has a network of authorized dealers and service providers across North America. This ensures that you can find qualified technicians to install and maintain your Amana HVAC system.
Technology: While not as cutting-edge as some of the higher-end Daikin models, Amana incorporates proven technologies to improve performance and efficiency.

Questions to Ask Your HVAC Contractor

When considering an Amana HVAC system, be sure to ask your HVAC contractor the following questions:

What is the SEER/AFUE/HSPF rating of the unit, and how will it affect my energy bills?
What type of compressor/heat exchanger does the unit have?
What is the warranty coverage, and what are the terms and conditions?
Is the unit compatible with smart thermostats?
What is the estimated lifespan of the unit?
What are the installation costs and any additional fees?
How does the Amana compare to other brands in terms of price, performance, and reliability?

The Bottom Line: Amana's Place in the HVAC Market

Amana, manufactured by Goodman Global (a subsidiary of Daikin Industries), offers a solid mid-range HVAC option. It provides a balance of reliability, affordability, and features. Knowing that Daikin is behind the brand gives added confidence in the product's quality and technological underpinnings. By understanding the manufacturing landscape and asking the right questions, you can determine if an Amana HVAC system is the right choice for your home.

Remember: Proper installation and regular maintenance are crucial for the performance and longevity of any HVAC system, regardless of the brand. Choose a qualified and experienced HVAC contractor to install and service your Amana unit.