What are the best central air conditioner brands to consider when replacing a system?
There are a few main things that homeowners will want to take into consideration when deciding which of the best central air conditioner brands units they should install in their homes. It really depends on what you value the most in a top brand central air conditioner. The major factors for most homeowners will be the total cost to install the best air conditioner brands, lifespan of the AC unit, warranties offered, energy efficiency (SEER ratings), and size of the unit you need for your home’s square footage (TONS) to efficiently cool your home.
We should begin answering the question with another question – What makes an AC brand one of the best?
Characteristics of the Best Central Air Conditioner Brands
Here are five traits to look for in central air conditioner brands:
1). Quality Components
As a consumer, you understand that every product you shop for is available in a range of options: Basic, better and best.
This is true with automobiles, appliances and furniture. It is true with central air conditioners.
But this might surprise you – Many major brands use internal components made by the same part suppliers like Emerson, Carlyle and Copeland. The issue of internal components is discussed in the the section of Top AC brands Reviews below.
2). Durability
Well-known independent testing group Consumer Reports found that the average central air conditioner repair was more than $200 per event. Good air conditioners break down less over the 14-20 years most last, so that’s fewer $200+ repair bills.
3). Good Warranties
A warranty lets you know what the manufacturer thinks of its equipment. The best 2019 central AC brands have general parts warranties of at least 10 years. Some offer longer coverage or extra advantages that put them among the best warranties in the industry. These issues are also discussed in the brand reviews below.
4). Value
Did you know that most Carrier and Heil ACs are nearly identical? But Carrier air conditioners are priced significantly higher. So, which is a better value? Heil, of course. That’s what we mean by value, and it is discussed on a brand-by-brand basis in the top air conditioner brand reviews.
5). A Proven Installer
What does the AC mechanic have to do with the brands? Simply this: The quality of the installation is at least as important as the brand.
One owner of a large heating and air conditioning company said this based on his 20+ years of experience: “Premature failure of components is almost always the result of improper installation. There is a right way, and there is a wrong way.”
We revisit the topic of proper installation at the end with tips for finding a proven installer to ensure you get the best durability and efficiency from your new central air conditioner.
2021 Best Central Air Conditioner Brands
- American Standard
- Goodman
- Trane
- Carrier
- Rheem
These 8 central air conditioner brands are the best combine the traits above. See their scores in each category and total scores in this table.
Here is a closer look at each of the best AC brands.
#1
American Standard Air Conditioners
American Standard makes 7 central air conditioners with efficiency from 14.75 to 22 SEER. Top to bottom, it’s one of the most efficient lineups top to bottom.
American Standard air conditioner cost is $4,665 to $10,425 for installed ACs. Cost factors include the model, size and installation factors.
Here’s a Model Analysis of American Standard Air Conditioners
#2
Carrier Air Conditioners
Carrier is the most recognized name in air conditioning and one of the largest manufacturers of residential and commercial HVAC equipment.
Carrier AC Models Reviews
While some brands are consolidating their AC line, Carrier has expanded it in recent years to 18 models (compare Trane with 9 and Lennox with 11).
#3
Goodman Central Air Conditioners
Goodman makes 5 central air conditioners with efficiency from 14 to 19 SEER. It is one of the smallest AC lineups of any top brand.
Goodman AC price is $2,765 to $6,825 installed based on model, size and installation cost factors.
This overview table shows available models and details.
#4
Trane Central AC Units
Trane air conditioners consistently rank above average in consumer satisfaction and dependability.
There are two reasons for this.
- Trane quality is good
- Trane is choosy about who installs its equipment
Quality: We shouldn’t get too carried away about quality. The truth is that many brands use quality components – in fact, they use some of the same reliable third-party components.
A few brands use cheaper internal components in some of their ACs to keep cost down.
Trane uses the best parts available. That sets it apart.
Trane AC Models Reviews
Trane currently makes 9 air conditioner models. It recently dropped the XL20i from the lineup, replaced by the XV20i. The XL20i might still be available, but when stock is gone, they won’t be offered again.
#5
Rheem Air Conditioners
Rheem makes 6 central air conditioners with efficiency from 15.5 to 20.5 SEER. It’s one of the first brands to stop making inefficient 13 and 14 SEER models.
Rheem air conditioner cost is $4,995 to $9,695 for installed ACs. Cost factors include the model, size and installation factors.
This Rheem central air conditioner review provides comprehensive research on all Rheem models – their efficiency, performance and cost. It will give you details needed to decide which Rheem model is your best choice – or whether Rheem is the right brand for you.
This overview table shows the 6 air conditioner models and a few key details.
As you can see, you have a full-range of options: Single-stage, two-stage, variable capacity.
Hope we have give you a proper guides of best central air conditioner .
Post a Comment
Let us know how you are feeling about this article by commenting.