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Carrier is the best air conditioner brand due to its performance and energy-efficient products, but you might prefer another of our top picks. Read our guide to see them all.
Written byBrenda WoodsUpdated 05/21/2024
Brenda Woods
Brenda Woods is an accomplished writer and managing editor with more than two decades of publishing experience. She has spent over 10 years covering home services and home improvement projects. Brenda supports her team in evaluating dozens of home service providers, surveying and speaking to hom…
See full bioWe researched the best air conditioner brands for more than 300 hours and found Carrier to be the best for its high-performing products, but Lennox is a close second for its superior energy efficiency. We analyzed every brand’s warranties and product specifications and discussed each brand’s offerings with representatives. Our team then compared each brand’s catalog against the average AC costs. Throughout this article, we detail what else makes Carrier and Lennox our top choices and compare them to other industry-leading brands.
Key Takeaways
Carrier and Lennox produce some of the best air conditioners with the highest efficiency rates, up to 28 SEER, and high-end tech that reduces noise levels and integrates with smart home technology.
Central air conditioners cost around $2,500–$7,000* for professional installation, but your specific price varies depending on your home’s size and additional features, such as smart thermostats.*
An industry standard for parts is a 10-year limited warranty. Some brands, such as Trane, offer extended warranties or lifetime compressor warranties, which are markers of a high-quality provider.
*Cost figures in this article are based on research into top air conditioner brands’ websites.
See our list of top hvac companies based on in-depth research.
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The Top 10 Best Air Conditioner Brands
Here are the best air conditioner brands based on our research and methodology:
Compare Top Air Conditioner Brands
We compiled the table below based on our methodology for HVAC companies and Energy Star’s standards for ACs’ performance and reliability. See which brands made it to the top below.
| Star Rating | Best For | Price Range | SEER Rating | Link | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier |  | 4.9/5 | Best Performance | $3,000–$15,000 | Up to 26 | Get Quote |
| Lennox |  | 4.9/5 | Best Energy Efficiency | $3,100–$10,000 | Up to 28 | Get Quote |
| Trane |  | 4.5/5 | Best Warranty | $3,500–$15,600 | Up to 22 | Get Quote |
| Amana |  | 4.5/5 | Best Comfort Control | $3,600–$11,000 | Up to 25 | Get Quote |
| American Standard |  | 4.5/5 | Best Value | $3,500–$10,900 | Up to 22 | Get Quote |
| York |  | 4.5/5 | Most Experience | $4,000–$10,000 | Up to 21 | Get Quote |
| Frigidaire |  | 4.5/5 | Best for Window-Mounted Units | $500–$1,082 | Up to 21 | Get Quote |
| Ruud |  | 4.3/5 | Best for Affordability | $3,000–$6,100 | Up to 20.5 | Get Quote |
| Goodman |  | 4.1/5 | Best for Longevity | $1,500–$8,000 | Up to 24.5 | Get Quote |
| Rheem |  | 3.7/5 | Best for Smart Homes | $3,100–$6,100 | Up to 20.5 | Get Quote |
Carrier
Lennox
Trane
Amana
American
York
Frigidaire
Ruud
Goodman
Rheem
| Carrier | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.9/5 |
| Best For | Best Performance |
| Price Range | $3,000–$15,000 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 26 |
| Lennox | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.9/5 |
| Best For | Best Energy Efficiency |
| Price Range | $3,100–$10,000 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 28 |
| Trane | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Best For | Best Warranty |
| Price Range | $3,500–$15,600 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 22 |
| Amana | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Best For | Best Comfort Control |
| Price Range | $3,600–$11,000 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 25 |
| American Standard | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Best For | Best Value |
| Price Range | $3,500–$10,900 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 22 |
| York | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Best For | Most Experience |
| Price Range | $4,000–$10,000 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 21 |
| Frigidaire | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Best For | Best for Window-Mounted Units |
| Price Range | $500–$1,082 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 21 |
| Ruud | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.3/5 |
| Best For | Best for Affordability |
| Price Range | $3,000–$6,100 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 20.5 |
| Goodman | |
|---|---|
| Logo |  |
| Star Rating | 4.1/5 |
| Best For | Best for Longevity |
| Price Range | $1,500–$8,000 |
| SEER Rating | Up to 24.5 |
Providers
Star Rating
Best For
Price Range
Seer Rating
Our Top 10 Picks For Air Conditioner Brands
1. Carrier
Best Performance
4.9
Pros and Cons
Pros Has high energy efficiency rates Includes a 10-year limited parts warranty for registered products Some units have sound levels as low as 51 decibels Cons Is more expensive than other brands Cost information requires a salesperson to visit your home
Overview
Carrier offers AC units with seasonal energy efficiency ratios (SEER) between 13 and 26.
Its most efficient and best-performing model is the Infinity 26 Air Conditioner with Greenspeed Intelligence. Each Carrier AC includes the option for a five- or 10-year limited warranty, depending on when you register the product.
- SEER rating: Up to 26
Cost
We went through Carrier’s online catalog and found the following price range based on its products:
- Price range: $3,000–$15,000
Why We Chose Carrier
Carrier partners with Energy Star to meet strict energy efficiency requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This, combined with the company’s low sound ratings and variable speed compressors, results in some of the highest-performing and most reliable AC units available.
2. Lennox
Best Energy Efficiency
4.9
Pros and Cons
Pros Has the highest SEER rating on this list Uses high-end technology, such as solar panels Is available at popular retailers such as The Home Depot Cons Is more expensive than some companies Varies warranty options by product
Overview
Like Carrier, Lennox partners with Energy Star to provide high-efficiency AC units. SEER ratings vary by model, but its SL28XCV unit can reach up to 28—one of the highest rates in the industry.
- SEER rating: Up to 28
Cost
We went over every unit on Lennox’s website and found the following pricing:
- Price range: $3,100–$10,000
Why We Chose Lennox
Lennox’s high-end air conditioners feature technology that modifies how they cool based on the surrounding climate, leading to higher efficiency. You can also add the company’s SunSource technology to any of its Signature collection units, allowing you to power your AC by solar panels.
3. Trane
Best Warranty
4.5
Pros and Cons
Pros Includes a comprehensive 12-year compressor warranty plus 10 years for other parts and labor Uses a rustproof DuraTuff base pan for longevity Incorporates cutting edge smart-home technology Cons High-end options require a ComfortLink II thermostat to function properly Charges a premium for many of its products
Overview
Founded in 1913, Trane offers impressive warranties that make it a secure investment. Its XV20i TruComfort Variable Speed air conditioner uses variable speed technology to continuously communicate with other air conditioning system parts and a Trane thermostat for optimal efficiency.
- SEER rating: Up to 22
Cost
Trane offers units within the following pricing range according to its online catalog:
- Price range: $3,500–$15,600
Why We Chose Trane
Trane includes a 12-year compressor and a 10-year parts and labor warranty, which is more comprehensive than other brands. These warranties help make your investment more secure and long-lasting.
4. American Standard
Best Value
4.5
Pros and Cons
Pros Offers smart-home technology Has competitive pricing on quality products Uses a network of certified dealers Cons Requires you to buy a high-end unit to receive compressor coverage Has higher sound levels than other brands
Overview
American Standard has become a household name in air conditioning since its founding in 1929. The company offers budget-friendly AC units with 10-year limited warranties. It uses a network of certified dealers, so you can buy an American Standard AC with a representative that understands your region’s HVAC requirements.
- SEER rating: Up to 22
Cost
Our findings on American Standard’s website revealed the following pricing for the company’s ACs:
- Price range: $3,500–$10,900
Why We Chose American Standard
American Standard has many units to choose from, including options for single, two-stage and variable-speed fan motors depending on your budget and desired energy efficiency. The company also offers AccuLink and AccuComfort smart thermostats, which allow you to control your AC via American Standard’s mobile app. Best of all, the company has competitive prices.
5. Amana
Best Comfort Control
4.5
Pros and Cons
Pros Includes a limited lifetime replacement warranty on its high-end compressors Adds features to improve comfort control Has a user-friendly website to search for dealers and find manuals and other resources Cons Performance is average for the company’s pricing Communicating technology is new and can be difficult to fix if it malfunctions
Overview
Amana is part of Goodman, the world’s largest manufacturer of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning products and systems. It offers quality AC units backed by a solid warranty. It also features one of the most user-friendly websites, including easy-to-access user manuals and product search tools.
- SEER rating: Up to 25
Cost
Amana shares the following price range through its online catalog:
- Price range: $3,600–$11,000
Why We Chose Amana
Though many of Amana’s products have average performance, their features boost your ability to control your home. The company’s ComfortBridge technology uses two-way communication to determine which speed or stage the AC runs on, rather than relying on your thermostat. This allows your HVAC system to use data to automatically adjust to the minimum amount of energy needed to heat or cool your home, lowering your utility costs. Amana also uses a variable-capacity compressor, which improves your humidity control.
6. York
Most Experience
4.5
Pros and Cons
Pros Has one of the longest histories in the air conditioning industry Offers ClimaSet technology that can be adjusted for humid, dry, or temperate climates Ensures longevity with durable hardware and a 10-year limited warranty for parts Cons Online reviews mention leaking problems and mixed experiences with customer service reps Has a limited product selection compared to other brands
Overview
York began in 1874 producing ice makers, then expanded into HVAC systems once the technology became available. Johnson Controls, which manufactures mechanical equipment globally, now owns the company. York’s AC units combine high energy efficiency and low sound levels. Every model has guardrails to protect the coil and compressor for additional durability.
- SEER rating: Up to 21
Cost
We compiled the price range below based on our findings on York’s website:
- Price range: $4,000–$10,000
Why We Chose York
York is the most experienced company on this list. Not only do you receive quality AC units, but also expertise other brands on this list don’t have yet.
7. Frigidaire
Best for Window-Mounted Units
4.5
Pros and Cons
Pros Uses an inverter compressor that runs at low capacity and uses little energy Offers high-quality and competitively priced window-mounted air conditioners Includes a 10-year warranty Cons Has a more limited product selection than competitors Possibly more difficult to find a certified installer depending on your location
Overview
Frigidaire has become a common household name over the last 100+ years due to its quality refrigerators and freezers. The company brings the same quality to its AC units. Though it’s known for simple, traditional ACs, it also offers a selection of smart-home integration features.
- SEER rating: Up to 21
Cost
Frigidaire’s window-mounted and portable air conditioner pricing is as follows based on its online product selection tool:
- Price range: $500–$1,082
Why We Chose Frigidaire
Frigidaire offers built-in and portable air conditioners but stands out for its window-mounted ACs. Some options include technology typically reserved for large ACs, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile app control, and inverters that optimize energy efficiency and air circulation.
8. Ruud
Best for Affordability
4.3
Pros and Cons
Pros Offers highly competitive pricing on quality AC units Provides an extensive service network Is known for simple, fast maintenance and part replacement Cons Only includes a five-year warranty for the entire AC unit Has similar offerings to Rheem but with additional downsides, such as high noise level
Overview
A part of the manufacturer Rheem, Ruud offers affordable full-size AC units. The company’s standard 16 SEER unit, the RA16 Achiever Series, starts as low as $3,000. Ruud’s high-end options, such as its UA20 Variable Speed Econet Enabled Ultra series, offer competitive pricing for smart-home integrated, high-efficiency units.
- SEER rating: Up to 20.5
Cost
We found the following pricing through Ruud’s online catalog:
- Price range: $3,000–$6,100
Why We Chose Ruud
In addition to low-cost units, Ruud offers financing options through an in-house financing firm, KwikComfort Financing, with options for zero-interest payment plans. This financing feature stands out given that AC replacement is expensive.
9. Goodman
Best for Longevity
4.1
Pros and Cons
Pros Uses R-410A refrigerant, which is less harmful to the environment Includes features for added durability and longevity Offers an above-average warranty for registered units Cons Warranty only covers labor for one year May be challenging to find a certified installer because the company sells units wholesale
Overview
Goodman began in 1975 manufacturing flexible air ducts, then expanded to air conditioners seven years later. Though known in the past for relatively standard AC units, its products have improved in quality and durability since Daikin Industries acquired the company in 2012.
- SEER rating: Up to 24.5
Cost
Below is Goodman’s pricing for its AC units based on the company’s website:
- Price range: $1,500–$8,000
Why We Chose Goodman
Goodman builds its ACs last, with features including special dirt-blocking filters and rail guards to protect the coils from weather and debris. Goodman backs its ACs with a 10-year limited warranty on parts, a 10-year limited warranty for entire unit replacement, and a lifetime compressor warranty.
10. Rheem
Best for Smart Homes
3.7
Pros and Cons
Pros Offers a large selection of heating and cooling products with a focus on sustainability and savings Provides full smart-home integration via its EcoNet products Uses the variable speed Copeland Scroll Compressor, one of the longest-lasting and quietest compressors available Cons Many available products are still too new to know their long-term viability Website lacks customer support
Overview
Rheem offers a variety of AC and HVAC units as well as plumbing products with a focus on smart–home integration. Its EcoNet products allow you to fully integrate your home’s heating and cooling systems to maximize comfort and savings.
- SEER rating: Up to 20.5
Cost
Here’s Rheem’s pricing according to its online product selection:
- Price range: $1,500–$8,000
Why We Chose Rheem
Rheem has a smartphone app that lets you control your entire system and receive notifications for maintenance or other issues. The company’s RA20 Variable Speed units are a standout, including EcoNet integration, higher SEER ratings, and eligibility for a $300 energy efficiency rebate. Products like this paired with the company’s app make it one of the best AC brands for smart homes.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing an Air Conditioner Brand?
Though cost is crucial when choosing an air conditioner brand, you should consider a few other factors, such as customer service and warranties, before deciding. We’ve listed the most significant factors below.
Cost
Your budget is vital in determining which AC brand is best for you. Premium brands cost more because they use newer technology and offer smart home capabilities. You can save money by opting for a standard AC unit if you don’t want or need these features.
The type of unit influences air conditioner prices. Central air conditioners cost more than smaller options such as split AC units. Some brands, such as Trane, charge more based on their reputation. However, a good reputation doesn’t necessarily mean that you should pay more for a comparable unit from a lesser-known brand. Installation costs range from $1,200–$2,200 and aren’t included in the unit price.
Below are some of the average costs of different AC system types. We’ve also included the costs of vital AC parts, such as a condenser. These are included in the unit cost but can increase or decrease the overall price.
| Type or Part | Cost |
|---|---|
| Central Air Conditioning | $2,500–$7,000 |
| Compressor | $800–$3,000 |
| Condenser | $1,200–$4,200 |
| Heat Pump | $1,000–$6,000 |
| Split Air Conditioning | $1,600–$3,500 |
| Window Air Conditioning | $150–$750 |
Warranties
AC warranties protect your investment. Registering your unit online can extend the standard 5-year limited warranty to 10 years. For greater peace of mind, opt for brands with more comprehensive warranty options, such as a lifetime compressor warranty or unit replacement warranty.
Features
Air conditioning technology is continuously progressing. You can buy an AC with all the bells and whistles, such as an internet-accessed monitoring system and smart thermostat. However, more features mean a higher cost. Consider what features and convenience level you want and compare them with the brand’s price tags to find a middle ground.
Central air conditioning systems that merge your HVAC systems into one unit with a heat pump may cost more up-front. You can save money by opting for a split system, which separates your HVAC system into a furnace for heating and an air conditioner for cooling. However, unified systems with a heat pump are more efficient during summer and lead to lower energy bills, saving you money long-term.
Customer Service
Consider the customer support provided by an AC brand before purchasing. Look for multiple communication channels and certified installers, and read customer reviews on popular sites such as the BBB for valuable insight into the installation process and customer service quality. After finding an HVAC installer’s certification number, contact your state’s department in charge of licensing and registration to ensure the company is legit.
How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?
The typical home air conditioning unit can last 15–25 years. However, an air conditioner’s life span can vary greatly depending on factors such as its quality, the work performed by the installing technician, your surrounding climate, and how well the system is maintained.
Factors That Can Shorten Your AC’s Life Span
Climate
Airflow Restriction
Constant Operation
Poor Maintenance
Your local climate determines how hard the AC has to work and how low it has to lower your home’s temperature. Hot temperatures mean the AC has to work extra hard to cool the house, which can reduce its life span. An extremely hot and lengthy summer can also reduce the AC’s life span. Learn the annual average temperature of where you live so that you can plan and budget for a new air conditioner accordingly.
Your AC needs to get fresh air, cool it, and distribute it throughout the house without blockages. If there are airflow restrictions, the AC will overwork, which can shorten its life span.
ACs that run around the clock also have a shorter life span because they experience persistent wear and strain. Even with good maintenance and regular tune-ups, the equipment is likely to fail sooner than those that are only used for one season per year.
Lack of HVAC maintenance can cause serious issues over time, which can shorten your AC’s life span. Frequent duct cleanings, filter changes, and regular maintenance are a must to help the AC run more efficiently and last longer.
How Is Air Conditioner Energy Efficiency Evaluated?
Energy efficiency determines an air conditioner’s overall performance and value. Below are two of the most common ways an AC’s energy efficiency is determined.
What Are ENERGY STAR Ratings?
A brand that partners with ENERGY STAR is another good indicator of quality. ENERGY STAR uses strict guidelines to certify AC units. For example, the unit must have a SEER rating of 14.5 or higher. It must also have an energy efficiency ratio (EER) rating—a more standardized measurement than SEER—that uses 8% less energy than conventional AC models.
What Is a SEER Rating?
Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings are the ratio of an AC’s cooling output over a typical cooling season divided by the energy it uses in watt-hours. A SEER rating is calculated over an entire cooling season using a constant indoor temperature and a variety of outdoor temperatures ranging from 60℉ to over 100℉. Be aware that a SEER rating is the maximum efficiency rating. Your unit’s efficiency could be lower depending on your home’s conditions, such as insulation and windows. Any SEER rating above 13 is considered good. The average rating is 16, and anything above 20 is top-of-the-line. Units below 13 are likely low-quality.
What SEER rating do I need for a 2,000 sq ft home?
A 2,000-square-foot home requires a 3.5-ton air conditioner. SEER ratings for air conditioners near this weight range from 13–25. A lower SEER-rated AC system is typically less expensive, but your electricity bills will be higher than with a higher SEER-rated product.
Which Air Conditioner Brand Should You Choose?
The best air conditioner brand depends on your budget, needs, and wants. Carrier air conditioners are some of the best-performing, while Lennox has one of the highest SEER ratings and best energy efficiency scores. A brand such as American Standard may be a better fit if you’re looking for something more affordable, and Trane provides a very reliable product.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when shopping for air conditioners is not obtaining multiple quotes from HVAC contractors. We recommend getting at least three quotes from different brands to compare costs, warranties, and additional features.
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FAQ About the Best Air Conditioner Brands
Which AC brand is best?
The best AC brand depends on your specific needs and wants. However, we find Carrier to be one of the most well-rounded AC brands. The company offers competitive pricing on high-quality AC units and includes a 10-year limited warranty upon product registration.
How long do ACs last?
An AC unit can last up to 20 years, or even 30, with the proper maintenance and care.
What SEER rating do I need for 2,000 square feet?
A 2,000-square-foot home requires a 3.5-ton air conditioner. SEER ratings for air conditioners near this weight range from 13–25. A lower SEER-rated AC is typically less expensive, but your electricity bills will be higher than with a higher SEER-rated product.
Which AC brand is the cheapest?
We found Ruud to provide some of the cheapest full-size air conditioners.
How do I know what size air conditioner I need?
Various factors determine your required air conditioner size. We recommend hiring a professional to properly calculate the right AC size for your home. Information used to calculate your required AC size includes the following:
- Number of people living in the home
- Square footage
- Regional climate
- Existing ductwork
- Insulation
- Heat contributions of appliances
Which brand is best for window ACs?
We find Frigidaire to be the best brand for window AC units. The company specializes in window-mounted AC units and includes high-end features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile app remote control, and high-end inverters that optimize energy efficiency.
How do I choose an AC brand?
We recommend focusing on five critical factors when choosing an AC brand:
- Efficiency: How effectively the air conditioner cools a space.
- Life span: How long the AC can last with proper maintenance.
- Noise level: How loud the AC gets in terms of decibels (db).
- Reputation: The manufacturer’s reputation across review sites, such as Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can also check with the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institution to see if the company is registered with the trade organization.
- Extra features: What smart-home features or connectivity does the AC include, if desired.
Our Rating Methodology
We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. This means earning your trust through transparent reviews and data to support our ratings and recommendations. Our rating system for HVAC providers is on a 100-point system based on seven factors:
- System cost (20 points): We determine if the company’s cheapest option for a full-size AC or furnace starts below $3,100 or if it exists somewhere between $3,100 and $8,500. The cheaper the average price range, the more points a company receives.
- Efficiency rating (20 points): We consider the company’s best available energy efficiency ratings, namely its highest Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings. The higher the rating, the higher the score.
- Sound rating (10 points): We analyze a company’s lowest possible sound rating in decibels. Companies with lower sound ratings are rated higher.
- Warranty options (10 points): We award the most points to companies with warranties beyond the average 10- and 5-year warranties. We deduct points from companies with warranties that cover three or fewer parts.
- Energy Star certification (10 points): We award more points to companies with Energy Star-certified products.
- Reputation (10 points): We factor in how each company is scored on the Business Better Bureau (BBB). We deduct points for any alerts or pending lawsuits.
- Customer service and resources (20): We consider each company’s available customer support and resources. This includes whether the company offers a user-friendly product search tool, FAQ section, pricing guides, online manuals, and a mobile app.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
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