The best air conditioner brands offer reliable cooling, durability, energy efficiency, and good value. After reviewing dozens of top brands, we recommend Carrier, Amana, and Goodman. Each caters to different budget levels and offers several models to meet unique efficiency requirements.
Premium AC brands can cost up to $21,900 including installation, while a comparable top-tier offering from a budget brand might cost $6,500. In addition to cost, you’ll want to consider factors such as your home’s size, your climate, and your interest in advanced technological features.
Below, we break down our top brands by tier — premium, midrange, and budget — to help you find the best air conditioning brand that closely aligns with your needs and budget.
When you’re ready, reach out to top HVAC companies to start the installation process.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Our Air Conditioner Picks by Cost and Quality
We evaluated features and compiled data to help you compare efficiency ratings, sound ratings, cost data, warranties, and sustainability among the most popular air conditioning brands. Based on our findings, we organized our list into three categories: premium, midrange, and budget.
Top Premium AC Brands
Our premium brands list includes Carrier, Trane, and Lennox. While these companies command top-tier prices, averaging $3,000 to $21,900, they’re a good choice for those who value advanced features, smart controls, quiet operation, and long-term utility bill savings.
Note that units purchased at the lower end of the cost range will be less efficient — and have less advanced features — than units purchased at the higher end.
Carrier, Trane, and Lennox offer models with a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 20 or higher. A SEER rating is determined by measuring a unit’s cooling output divided by its power consumption during the cooling season. The minimum allowable SEER rating for central residential air conditioning equipment is 14 to 15, depending on the region. The higher the number, the more efficient the model; SEER ratings of at least 20 are considered a good standard.
Carrier
4.9
Our Rating
Carrier is known for its high-efficiency air conditioners, which offer excellent energy savings and quiet operation. Its advanced features help provide reliable cooling for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills over the long term.
- Durable build quality with corrosion-resistant materials
- Variable-speed compressor for precise cooling
- Smart thermostat compatibility for remote control
- Smart-home integration with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Higher upfront cost compared to competitors
- ENERGY STAR certification for only some models
You want a system that provides long-term savings and quiet operation, especially if you have a large home.
- Efficiency Rating: 13–24 SEER
- Sound Rating: 51–73 decibels (dB)
- Price Range: $3,000–$15,000
Trane
4.4
Our Rating
Trane is known for its durable builds and high efficiency, even in extreme climates. While it’s the most expensive brand on our list, it makes three air conditioning lines to suit different budget needs.
- Parts and components tested for long-lasting durability
- Works well in climates with extreme temperatures
- Trane TruComfort (available on select models) adjusts speed to meet desired temperature levels
- Smart thermostat option
- Expensive installation compared to other options
- Pricey replacement parts
You live in a moderate to hot climate and want a high-efficiency system from one of the most durable brands.
- Efficiency Rating: 14.5–22 SEER
- Sound Rating: 55–75 dB
- Price Range: $7,000–$21,900
Lennox
4.3
Our Rating
Lennox offers the most energy-efficient air conditioners on the market, with some models boasting SEER ratings of up to 28. A wide selection of units means multiple price points and features to suit different needs.
- Many ENERGY STAR-certified options
- Compatible with Lennox’s smart thermostats for remote control
- Precise Comfort technology automatically adjusts cooling output
- Lennox Quantum Coils can handle harsh weather
- Higher installation costs than competitors
- Can be hard to find repair parts
You’re aiming for the lowest possible utility bills — or you live in an extreme climate — and you’re willing to pay a higher upfront cost.
- Efficiency Rating: 13–28 SEER
- Sound Rating: 59–76 dB
- Price Range: $5,000–$10,500
Top Midrange AC Brands
Our favorite midrange brands include Rheem, American Standard, and Amana. These companies have offerings that combine the best of both worlds, providing energy efficiency at a more affordable price point of around $3,000 to $6,500.
While these air conditioning units typically have slightly higher noise levels than the premium brands, they’re still reliable. Select models also offer advanced features.
Amana
4.5
Our Rating
Amana provides a standard 10-year limited warranty covering system and workmanship defects. If you’re worried about ongoing repair costs not being covered by the warranty, you can inquire about Amana’s extended service plan for added peace of mind.
- 10-year limited parts and compressor warranty with extended service plans available
- Positive customer reviews
- ComfortBridge technology for peak performance (select models)
- Commissioning and diagnostics via the CoolCloud app (select models)
- Warranty limitations if you sell your home or don’t register
- Higher initial costs than similar offerings from other companies
You’re looking for a budget-friendly system with one of the best warranties in the industry.
- Efficiency Rating: 14–24.5 SEER
- Sound Rating: 59–75 dB
- Price Range: $3,500–$6,500
Rheem
4.4
Our Rating
Rheem offers affordable units starting at $3,000. However, affordability doesn’t mean inefficiency: Rheem makes air conditioning units with SEER ratings up to 20.5, and it offers some advanced features, such as the EcoNet Smart Monitoring System.
- Three series of AC units to meet different budget and efficiency needs
- EcoNet-enabled units allow for smart monitoring and remote access
- Zero-waste design and plans for products that reduce carbon emissions by 50%
- Offers rebates of up to $1,000
- Has lower SEER ratings than other companies
- Products with lower SEER ratings may not qualify for tax credits
You’re looking for a sustainable product that offers good value.
- Efficiency Rating: 13–20.5 SEER
- Sound Rating: 57–76 dB
- Price Range: $3,000–$4,800
American Standard
4.3
Our Rating
American Standard is a sister brand of Trane that sells low- and midrange-efficiency air conditioners with SEER ratings of 13 to 21.5. It’s known for its solid warranties and for responding quickly to warranty claims.
- Extended warranty options
- Compatible with smart thermostats for remote access
- AccuComfort technology constantly adjusts for efficiency
- Compatible with the brand’s AccuClean Whole-Home Air Cleaner
- Authorized dealers may not be available everywhere
- Few high-efficiency options to choose from
You want solid efficiency at a fair price.
- Efficiency Rating: 13–21.5 SEER
- Sound Rating: 57–75 dB
- Price Range: $3,500–$6,100
Best Budget AC Brands
Our top picks for budget brands are Goodman, Frigidaire, and York. Whether you have light cooling needs or need to stick within a set budget, these brands can provide reliable cooling power without breaking the bank.
Air conditioning units from our budget brands cost about $2,500 to $6,500.They provide basic efficiency but can be a little louder and have shorter warranties than comparable options from midrange and premium brands.
Goodman
5.0
Our Rating
Homeowners in mild climates who want affordability will appreciate Goodman’s air conditioner offerings. While this brand doesn’t have as many high-efficiency models as our top midrange and premium brands, its units provide reliability with low upfront costs. Like Amana, Goodman is owned by the worldwide company Daikin.
- Easy-to-source parts
- Several models and output capacities to choose from
- Lifetime limited compressor warranties on select models
- Select models have ComfortBridge technology for peak performance
- Lower SEER ratings than other brands, on average
- Product rebates are only $350 — lower than some competitors
You want a reliable, affordable cooling system and want to ensure an effortless repair process.
- Efficiency Rating: 13–24.5 SEER
- Sound Rating: 57–75 dB
- Price Range: $3,500–$5,500
Frigidaire
4.5
Our Rating
Frigidaire is a well-known name in the appliance and HVAC industries. In addition to its popular window-mounted air conditioners, Frigidaire offers affordable residential central air conditioning units.
- Low upfront costs, particularly on basic models
- Easy-to-find replacement parts
- Brilliance series offers quiet operation
- Long-lasting products undergo a rigorous manufacturing process
- Not as energy-efficient as other brands
- Minimal selection and lack of advanced features
You live in a mild climate or are looking for a cost-effective solution for your primary residence or rental home.
- Efficiency Rating: 14–20 SEER
- Sound Rating: 57–76 dB
- Price Range: $2,500–$6,500
York
4.7
Our Rating
York’s budget-friendly air conditioning units start at $3,000. Its energy efficiency ratings aren’t the best for those looking to lower utility bills in the long term, but it has midrange options to suit mild climates. York also offers space-saving designs ideal for homeowners with limited installation space.
- Models and cooling outputs to suit homes of most sizes and budgets
- Select models feature Climate Set for maximum efficiency and pair with touchscreen thermostats
- Some models have quiet operation as low as 53 dB
- Offers up to $1,050 rebate
- Not as energy-efficient as other budget brands
- Can have high repair costs
You have limited installation space but still need a reliable air conditioner.
- Efficiency Rating: 13–20 SEER
- Sound Rating: 53–73 dB
- Price Range: $3,000–$5,500
Additional Considerations for Other Brands
Our list of air conditioner brands is not exhaustive. Another line might have an offering that suits your needs and budget. Before making a purchase, compare other brands to competitors in their price tier, evaluating efficiency ratings, advanced features, warranties, and consumer reviews.
Also, consider the availability of each company’s products. It can be difficult to find replacement parts for brands with limited availability.
Compare AC Brands by Features and Price
The table below shows how our top AC brands compare across factors such as price and energy efficiency.
This site receives compensation from some of the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. When you click “Get Quote,” you will be connected with partners who may contact you with information related to your inquiry. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
|
Brand
|
Price Range
|
|
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
 Carrier
Our Review
|
$4,800–$11,000 | Best for Noise Level | Our Review |
|
Trane
Our Review
|
$7,000-$21,900 | Best for Efficiency | Our Review |
|
Lennox
Our Review
|
$5,000–$10,500 | Best For SEER | Our Review |
 Amana
Our Review
|
$3,500–$6,500 | Best A/C Model Variety | Our Review |
|
Rheem
Our Review
|
$3,000–$4,800 | Best for Sustainability | Our Review |
|
American Standard
Our Review
|
$3,500–$6,100 | Best for Warranty | Our Review |
|
Goodman
Our Review
|
$3,500–$5,500 | Best Unit Replacement Warranty | Our Review |
 Frigidaire
Our Review
|
$2,000–$7,000 | Best for Affordability | Our Review |
 York
Our Review
|
$2,500–$6,000 | Best Extended Warranty | Our Review |
How To Choose the Right AC Brand for Your Home
When it comes to choosing the right air conditioner for your home, you should consider factors specific to your circumstances.
Large homes with high cooling demands often benefit from premium brands such as Lennox and Carrier, which offer durability and high efficiency. Their stellar energy efficiency ratings ensure that utility bills remain in check — often a prime concern of those needing to cool thousands of square feet.
Hot climates require air conditioners that can keep up with cooling demands while remaining efficient. In this case, brands such as Trane and Lennox are great choices, as they’ve earned reputations for being durable even under extreme temperatures.
If budget is a concern, Frigidaire’s and Goodman’s air conditioning units can keep your home cool without breaking the bank. However, most shoppers are after a long-lasting unit, regardless of budget. In addition to considering the air conditioner’s SEER rating and output, read the warranty. Models with robust, long-lasting warranties can provide peace of mind that necessary repairs will be covered for years to come.
How To Save Money on Your AC Purchase
Because a new AC unit is a large purchase, you should shop around and employ some of the best money-saving strategies to avoid paying more than you have to.
Compare Multiple Brands
To save money on your AC purchase, you need to compare brands and not settle on the first quote you receive. “Get multiple quotes to avoid overpaying,” said Kelly Russum, owner of KC’s 23 ½ Hour Plumbing & Air Conditioning in Palm Springs, California. “But also think long-term: Upfront price matters, but total cost over 10–15 years matters more. Therefore, before making a choice, consider future energy bills and maintenance costs,” he added.
Check for Rebates and Tax Credits
You may be eligible for tax credits if you upgrade to a new air conditioner that meets energy efficiency guidelines set by the government. See which models qualify by browsing the available models on a brand’s website; most will display a banner or link showing which tax credits are available and for how much. HVAC dealers can also help you make a purchase that is eligible for tax credits.
A manufacturer may also offer rebates to help drive up sales for particular models. These rebates act as discounts or partial refunds after the purchase. Combining tax credits and rebates can help you save hundreds or thousands of dollars on your air conditioner purchase.
Consider Off-Season Installation
Spring and summer are busy seasons for HVAC dealers and installers. If you want to save money on air conditioning purchases and installations, start shopping during the fall and winter months.
Invest in an Air Conditioner With a High SEER Rating
According to Russum, you can think of a SEER rating as similar to a car’s miles per gallon. “The higher the number, the more cooling you get per dollar spent on electricity,” he said. Central air conditioning systems must meet government minimum requirements, which are no less than 14 SEER for units in the northern part of the U.S. and no less than 15 SEER for units in the southern part, where air conditioning accounts for a larger percentage of energy usage.
The higher the SEER rating, the less power an air conditioner will consume, with those boasting ratings of 20 or higher providing the most efficiency. However, Russum cautions against only considering the unit and its SEER rating for long-term savings. “Don’t only focus on the unit — your ductwork, insulation, and home’s airflow matter too. An efficient AC in a poorly sealed home won’t perform well,” he said.
What’s Next?
To choose the right AC brand for you, consider your budget, efficiency needs, and cooling preferences. Once you’ve determined your cooling needs, you can collect quotes from multiple dealers to compare offerings.
In addition to examining each model’s price, cooling output, and energy efficiency, be sure to read the terms of each warranty before making a purchase with an HVAC company.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Methodology: How We Evaluated the Best AC Brands
The experts at Today’s Homeowner provide only the most transparent and accurate information for all your home improvement projects and needs. Our reviews of HVAC companies, which include air conditioner brands, focus on what matters most to homeowners — including efficiency, sound ratings, and cost.
To gather our information on the best air conditioner brands, our experts reviewed publicly available information, gathered quotes, spoke with HVAC contractors, and analyzed consumer reviews.
We studied dozens of the best air conditioner brands to develop the following rating methodology:
- Affordability: Material and labor costs are the two most important factors in assessing an air conditioner brand’s affordability. However, we consider more than these factors and evaluate how air conditioner companies accommodate a range of budgets.
- Efficiency: An air conditioner’s efficiency directly affects your monthly energy bills. We look to see whether air conditioner brands offer high-efficiency units and ensure each unit passes the minimum SEER and EER requirements for each region.
- Sound Rating: The best air conditioners can cool your home with little to no sound. We rate air conditioner brands based on how quiet their systems are. Companies that offer air conditioners that produce fewer than 57 decibels do the best in this category.
- Products: We evaluate the company’s brands and whether they offer multiple equipment options and high-efficiency units. Companies that offer split systems, packaged systems, ductless systems, heat pumps, portable units, and window air conditioners score the best in this category.
- Warranty: The best air conditioner brands back up their products and services with extensive warranties. We research each company’s material and workmanship warranties and evaluate them based on comprehensiveness and length.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
