Carrier Performance™ Series Boost 90 – 59SP5 Review

Square Footage	Furnace BTU
1,000-1,200 sq. ft. Home	40,000 - 60,000 BTU
1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Home	60,000 BTU
1,500-1,800 sq. ft. Home	60,000 - 80,000 BTU
1,800-2,500 sq. ft. Home	80,000 - 100,000 BTU
2,500-3,500 sq. ft. Home	100,000 to 120,000 BTU

Carrier Performance™ 59SP5A Furnace Review

Status: Discontinued

Note: The Carrier Performance™ 59SP5A furnace has been discontinued by the manufacturer. However, it may still be available through select distributors and HVAC contractors for a limited time.

Overview

The Carrier Performance™ 59SP5A is a high-efficiency gas furnace designed to deliver reliable performance, year-round comfort, and energy savings.
With a multi-speed ECM blower, Hybrid Heat® compatibility, and Ideal Humidity® System technology, this model offers quiet operation and efficient temperature control — all at an affordable price point.

In a Nutshell

Average Installed Price: $4,835 – $6,170
AFUE Efficiency: 96.3% – 96.5%
BTU Input: 40,000 – 120,000
BTU Output: 39,000 – 117,000
Burner Type: Monoport Burners
Blower Type: Multi-Speed ECM
ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
Height: 35” (ideal for compact installation spaces)

Top Features

High Efficiency (96.5% AFUE): Delivers strong heating performance while minimizing energy costs.
Hybrid Heat® Compatible: Can be paired with a heat pump for dual-fuel operation and greater energy savings.
Monoport Burners: Precisely tuned for smooth, quiet, and efficient combustion.
Ideal Humidity® System: Enhances summer dehumidification for superior comfort.
Hot Surface PowerHeat™ Ignition: Reliable, pilot-free ignition that saves fuel and ensures consistent starts.
Compact Design (35” height): Perfect for tight spaces such as closets or small mechanical rooms.
QuieTech™ Technology: Reduces operating noise with sound-absorbing insulation and advanced airflow control.

The Bottom Line

The Carrier 59SP5A is a dependable, energy-efficient furnace that balances affordability, quiet performance, and year-round comfort.
Its ECM blower motor, insulated cabinet, and Ideal Humidity® System provide steady heating and excellent moisture control — ideal for Canadian homes that experience both cold winters and humid summers.

Even though this model has been discontinued, it remains a solid performer for homeowners who want a cost-effective system with reliable Carrier quality.

In-Depth Review

Product Highlights

ECM Multi-Speed Blower Motor: Provides energy-efficient airflow and stable temperature control.
Humidistat™ Control Compatibility: Helps regulate indoor humidity for improved air quality.
Pilot-Free PowerHeat™ Ignition: Silicon Nitride igniter ensures long-lasting, reliable performance.
SuperBrite LED Diagnostics: Built-in self-diagnostic system for quick troubleshooting and maintenance.
Aluminized-Steel Primary Heat Exchanger: Built for durability and long service life.
SmartEvap™ Technology: Works with your AC to improve summer dehumidification and prevent moisture buildup.
ComfortFan™ Options: Allows customizable fan speeds in Constant ON mode for enhanced airflow flexibility.

Other Key Features

Can be paired with a humidifier for enhanced year-round comfort.
Fully insulated cabinet reduces heat loss and noise levels.
Hybrid Heat® compatibility enables fuel-switching to optimize energy efficiency.
Self-diagnostics simplify service and maintenance.

Energy Efficiency Features

High-efficiency ECM blower motor reduces electrical usage during both heating and cooling.
Monoport burners ensure quiet, stable, and efficient combustion.
Sealed combustion system draws air from outside the furnace for improved safety and efficiency.
Fully insulated cabinet helps minimize heat loss.

Noise Reduction Features

The 59SP5A includes several technologies that contribute to whisper-quiet operation:

QuieTech™ noise reduction system dampens airflow and combustion noise.
Sealed, insulated cabinet limits operational sound levels.
ECM blower motor runs smoothly and quietly, maintaining consistent airflow without loud fluctuations.

Temperature & Humidity Control

Ideal Humidity® System: Provides enhanced dehumidification during summer.
SmartEvap™ Technology: Works with your air conditioner to prevent coil moisture buildup.
ComfortFan™ Technology: Lets you choose between multiple fan speeds for continuous comfort.

Warranty Information

Carrier provides strong warranty coverage for the Performance™ 59SP5A, including:

Lifetime heat exchanger warranty (up to 20 years if unregistered)
10-year limited parts warranty
Optional extended labor warranty available through participating contractors

Tip: Register your furnace within 90 days of installation to receive the full warranty coverage.

Comparable Carrier Models

Model Comparison by Features

Model	AFUE	Burner Type	Blower	Tier	Notes
59SP5A	96.3–96.5%	Monoport	Multi-Speed ECM	Budget	Better heating efficiency and humidity control
59SC2A	92.1%	Monoport	Multi-Speed	Budget	Lower efficiency, now below Canada’s minimum requirement

Verdict:
The 59SP5A outperforms the 59SC2A with its higher efficiency, quieter operation, and better humidity management, making it a stronger option if available.

Model Comparison by Price

Typical Carrier furnace prices range from $3,500 to $6,000 installed, depending on model and location.
The 59SP5A sits in the mid to upper range of budget-tier models, offering excellent performance for its price.

Financing options may be available through authorized Carrier dealers or HVAC contractors.

Model Comparison by Premium Tier

Compared to the Carrier Infinity® 98 – 59MN7A (Greenspeed® Intelligence model), which has a 97.2%–98.5% AFUE, the 59SP5A is less advanced but much more affordable.

Verdict:
The Infinity 98 delivers superior performance and efficiency, but the Performance 59SP5A remains a budget-friendly furnace that provides excellent value for money and reliable comfort for many years.

Final Thoughts

Even though the Carrier Performance™ 59SP5A has been discontinued, it continues to be a highly capable and efficient gas furnace for homeowners who value:
✅ Reliable performance
✅ Quiet operation
✅ Humidity control
✅ Compact installation

If you can still find this model through a distributor or contractor, it’s an excellent budget furnace option that offers premium comfort at a lower price point.