Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2024

What We Love

Carrier is renowned as a top-tier air conditioner brand, and for good reason. Their HVAC systems are crafted with stringent quality standards, ensuring optimal performance. With a diverse range of options, Carrier caters to various heating and cooling needs, ensuring every homeowner finds their perfect fit. The brand’s commitment to excellence is further showcased by their highly qualified installers, trained specifically for Carrier installations.

Cost Information

Installation of a 14 SEER Carrier Comfort Series air conditioner would cost $3,000 to $15,000 to install. Expect to pay on the lower end of the spectrum if you have a smaller home that needs a straightforward unit; those with more complex installations can expect a price at the top end of the range.

Because this brand offers more options than most manufacturers, you’re sure to find the exact central air unit you need for your home’s heating and cooling needs.

Best Feature

They offer up to a 26 SEER rating, which is one of the highest on the market. Carrier repairs are usually fairly affordable in comparison to the rest of the HVAC industry. Carrier is also known for having highly qualified installers who are trained specifically in how to install a Carrier air conditioner. The company also offers heat pumps, gas furnaces, and other HVAC system types.

What We Love

Trane central air conditioners are considered a premium brand, known for delivering top-notch air conditioners, heat pumps, and gas furnaces. Their products are not only high-quality but also compatible with modern smart thermostat technology, providing homeowners with both efficiency and convenience.

Cost Information

A Trane XR14 that has a 14 SEER rating in energy efficiency would cost anywhere from $2,200 to $3,900 to install. As with other brands, the more bells and whistles you choose, the higher the price will be.

Best Feature

Trane’s standout feature is its commitment to quality and innovation. Their AC units come with a comprehensive 10-year warranty covering both parts and labor, ensuring homeowners receive lasting value and peace of mind.

What We Love

Out of all the top brands on this list, Lennox air conditioners are the ones known most for energy efficiency. Many Lennox AC units are ENERGY STAR rated, so you can be confident in its performance and work to cut utility bills if that is a priority for your household.

Cost Information

For a Lennox air conditioner with a SEER rating between 14 to 16, such as the Lennox 14ACX series model, you can expect installation costs to range from $4,800 to $10,800.

Best Feature

The highlight of Lennox air conditioners is their impressive SEER levels, with some models reaching up to 23.5. This not only ensures optimal cooling but also significant energy savings for homeowners.

What We Love

American Standard air conditioners stand out as one of the premier central air conditioning brands in the industry. With a reputation for fewer repair calls compared to other brands, they offer reliability that homeowners can trust. The added assurance of a 10-year limited warranty further emphasizes the brand’s commitment to quality.

Cost Information

For a 14 SEER American Standard AC unit, homeowners can expect an average installation cost ranging from $3,500 to $6,500.

Best Feature

Beyond its top-notch performance, the standout feature of American Standard air conditioners is their impressive durability and reliability, ensuring fewer maintenance calls and long-lasting comfort.

What We Love

Goodman stands out as a reliable yet affordable brand in the HVAC industry. While it may not have the same prestige as some other brands, Goodman has built a reputation for delivering solid, quality air conditioners. Their products are durable, and the company backs them with dependable warranty programs, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners.

Cost Information

For a Goodman GSX 14 SEER AC unit, the total installation costs range between $2,765 and $5,340.

Best Feature

Goodman’s best feature is its balance of affordability and quality. The brand offers real value, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a top-performing AC unit without breaking the bank.

What We Love

Amana air conditioners strike a balance between efficiency and affordability, making them a great choice for homeowners looking for mid-range SEER options. Their reputation for offering one of the industry’s best warranties is a testament to their commitment to quality. The Limited Lifetime Replacement warranty on their compressors is especially commendable, ensuring peace of mind for the entire expected lifespan of the AC unit.

Cost Information

For those considering an Amana AC unit, specifically the Amana ASX14 model with a 14 SEER rating, the installation costs typically range from $2,800 to $3,600. This provides a good balance of cost and efficiency for homeowners.

Best Feature

Amana’s standout feature is undoubtedly their robust warranty offerings. The Limited Lifetime Replacement warranty on compressors showcases their confidence in the durability and longevity of their products.

What We Love

HEIL AC units stand out in the crowded market with their unique tech integration. Their technology allows various heating and cooling components to communicate and synchronize, enhancing both energy efficiency and overall reliability. While they might not be the most recognized brand, their performance and tech-forward approach make them a noteworthy choice.

Cost Information

For those considering a HEIL air conditioner, the 14 SEER model from the Quiet Comfort series typically comes with an installation cost ranging from $2,290 to $4,430. This offers a good balance between advanced tech and affordability.

Best Feature

The standout feature for HEIL AC units is their advanced tech that allows different components to send information and synchronize their performance. This not only boosts energy efficiency but also enhances the unit’s reliability. Coupled with a comprehensive 10-year warranty, HEIL ensures peace of mind for its users.

What We Love

Rheem central AC units are known for their affordability without compromising on durability. When properly installed and maintained, they can rival the longevity of more expensive brands. Additionally, Rheem’s compatibility with EcoNet smart home products adds a layer of modern convenience for homeowners.

Cost Information

A replacement Rheem air conditioner such as the Rheem Classic RA14 model would cost from $3,000 to $6,500 total installed.

Best Feature

Rheem’s standout feature is its value for money. While it may not always be seen as a premier HVAC brand, its combination of affordability, durability, and smart home compatibility makes it a worthy choice for homeowners on a budget.

What We Love

York HVAC systems stand out for their exceptional value pricing, making them a top choice for homeowners looking for quality without breaking the bank. Additionally, their reputation for producing ultra-quiet units ensures a peaceful environment in homes where noise can be a concern.

Cost Information

For a standard York air conditioner with a 14 SEER rating, the installation costs typically range from $3,400 to $6,000. If you’re considering the more efficient York YXV model with a 20 SEER rating, expect to be on the higher end of that price range.

Best Feature

The more efficient models such as the York YXV which boasts a 20 SEER would price out at on the higher end. York’s AC units are renowned for their quiet operation. This makes them an ideal choice for households where minimizing noise disruption is a priority.

What We Love

Ruud air conditioners are known for their affordability without compromising on quality. With a long-standing reputation for durability, Ruud ensures that their units last. Their widespread availability of parts throughout the U.S. means that warranty claims and replacements are handled efficiently, minimizing downtime.

Cost Information

For the Ruud Choice Series WP14, which boasts 14 SEER energy efficiency, you can expect installation costs to range from $3,000 to $6,000. This makes Ruud one of the more budget-friendly options in the HVAC market.

Best Feature

Ruud’s standout feature is its balance of cost-efficiency with durability. While their warranties might not be as extensive as some premium brands, the initial savings on installation and the unit itself make Ruud a compelling choice for many homeowners.