Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (2023)

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Which AC brand should you choose?
Here are our top picks.

Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (2)

By Catie Bonner

Updated January 23, 2023

There are a few main things that homeowners will want to consider when deciding which of the best AC 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.

Best brands at a glance

  1. American Standard Air Conditioners
  2. Carrier Air Conditioners
  3. Goodman Central Air Conditioners
  4. Trane Central AC Units
  5. Rheem Air Conditioners
  6. Lennox HVAC Units
  7. York AC Units
  8. Ruud Central Air Conditioners
  9. Amana HVAC Systems
  10. HEIL Air Conditioners
  11. Bryant Air Conditioning Units

Top AC Brands

The experts at Modernize broke down each of the 10 best central air conditioning brands by comparing the costs of a 14 SEER (standard efficiency) AC unit and then comparing some of the top features of each highly rated central AC unit brand.

1

Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (3)

  • Very Reliable Unit
  • Low Maintenance Costs

Average Cost to Install:$3,575 to $6,178

Energy Efficiency:13 - 22 SEER

American Standard Air Conditioners

American Standard air conditioners are one of the best central air conditioning brands in the business. The average cost to install a 14 SEER American Standard AC unit would be around $3,575 to $6,178. The company gets far fewer repair calls for its AC systems than most of the other AC units in the business. You can feel good about paying a premium for this AC unit, because you’ll be getting a whole lot of value with the purchase.

2

Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (4)

  • Comprehensive Warranty - Up to 10 Years
  • Impressive Customer Service

Average Cost to Install:$4,892 to $7,224

(Video) Top 5 Best Split AC (Air Conditioner) In 2023

Energy Efficiency:13 - 22 SEER

Carrier Air Conditioners

There’s a reason that many people refer to Carrier AC units as a top air conditioner brand. Their HVAC systems are built with strict quality standards in mind. Installation of a 14 SEER Carrier Comfort Series air conditioner would cost $4,892 to $7,224 to install. 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. They offer up to a 21 SEER rating, which is 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.

3

Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (5)

  • Top Homeowner Choice
  • Low Cost Options
  • Smart Home Compatible

Average Cost to Install:$3,188 to $4,275

Energy Efficiency: 13 - 18 SEER

Goodman Central Air Conditioners

Goodman air conditioners are another of the top HVAC AC units on this list that isn’t quite as revered as Trane or Carrier. They are known for being cheaper in price range, but still being a good brand to rely on. If you wanted to install a Goodman GSX 14 SEER AC unit you could expect to pay $3,188 to $4,275 in total installation costs. The company’s products have a solid build and quality, along with warranty programs you can count on. Best of all, they’re a real value overall for one of the best ac units from this list.

4

Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (6)

  • Low Running Costs
  • Great Quality for Price

Average Cost to Install:$3,267 to $6,100

Energy Efficiency: 14 - 18.5 SEER

Trane Central AC Units

Trane central air conditioners are known for upholding warranties and offer a standard 10-year warranty that covers both parts and labor. A Trane XR14 that has a 14 SEER rating in energy efficiency would cost anywhere from $3,267 to $6,100 to install. Trane products are often pricier than other HVAC brands, but as the old saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” Trane is considered a premium brand that offers outstanding air conditioners, heat pumps, and gas furnaces.

5

Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (7)

  • Low Cost Units Available
  • Durable for Price

Average Cost to Install:$3,150 to $4,000

Energy Efficiency:13 - 20 SEER

Rheem Air Conditioners

Rheem central AC units are a good option if you are looking for something within a smaller budget. When installed correctly and maintained, Rheem units can be just as durable as other higher priced brands. A replacement Rheem air conditioner such as the Rheem Classic RA14 model would cost from $3,150 to $4,000 total installed. Many homeowners have heard of Rheem, but they are not always considered a premier HVAC brand. However, for the price they are definitely worth considering.

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6

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  • Highest SEER Rating Available
  • Premium Models Available

Average Cost to Install:$3,100 to $7,340

Energy Efficiency: 13 - 26 SEER

Lennox HVAC Units

Out of all the top brands on this list, Lennox air conditioners are the ones known most for energy efficiency. You can pick up models with remarkably high SEER levels like 23.5. The company can offer equipment with efficiency levels up above 98%. A 14 to 16 SEER rating Lennox air conditioner such as the Lennox 14ACX series model would cost $3,100 to $7,340 to install in your home.

7

Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (10)

  • Lifetime Warranty - Available
  • Low Maintenance Costs

Average Cost to Install:$3,067 to $5,200

Energy Efficiency:13 - 18 SEER

York AC Units

York HVAC systems are considered one of the best brands particularly because they are known for their value pricing. The average cost to install a YORK air conditioner with a 16 SEER rating would cost $3,067 to $5,200 to install. The more efficient models such as the York YXV which boasts a 20 SEER would price out at on the higher end. York AC units are also known for being extremely quiet and are a great option when noise is a real concern.

8

Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (11)

  • Affordable Unit Options
  • Above Average SEER Available

Average Cost to Install:$3,125 to $3,879

Energy Efficiency:15 - 20.5 SEER

Ruud Central Air Conditioners

Ruud air conditioners are affordable HVAC systems that offer a full lineup of heating and cooling products. The Ruud Achiever RA16 which has a 16 SEER energy efficiency would cost anywhere between $3,125 to $3,879 to install. There’s plenty of testing and customer reviews that credit Ruud AC units as being long-lasting. They also have available parts throughout the U.S. so their warranties and replacements are very time efficient. The warranties themselves are not always as comprehensive as some of the more expensive brands on the list. However, you will pay far less in initial installation costs or outright purchase price of a new AC unit with Ruud.

9

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Best Air Conditioner Brands of 2023 | Top 10 AC Units | Modernize (12)

  • Premium HVAC Units
  • Lifetime Limited Warranties
  • Great Investment

Average Cost to Install:$3,854 to $6,345

Energy Efficiency:14 - 25 SEER

Amana HVAC Systems

Amana air conditioners are a solid mid-range HVAC unit offering for the homeowner looking for products in the 13 to 18 SEER range. Amana is known for offering one of the best HVAC warranties in the business, and their compressors come with a Limited Lifetime Replacement warranty that’s good for the expected operating life of the AC unit. An Amana AC unit will cost $3,854 to $6,345 to install if you want a 14 SEER air conditioner installed by them such as the Amana ASX14 model. Amana HVAC also offers replacement furnaces and heat pumps.

10

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  • Low Cost - High Durability
  • 10 Year General Parts Warranty

Average Cost to Install: $3,562 to $4,465

Energy Efficiency:14 - 19 SEER

HEIL Air Conditioners

HEIL AC units are another one of the best air conditioner brands that doesn’t get as much love as they should. This AC brand’s tech allows different heating and cooling components to send information and synchronize performance, becoming more energy efficient and reliable overall. A HEIL air conditioner installation would cost $3,562 to $4,465 for their 14 SEER model from their Quiet Comfort series. Heil AC products can achieve up to a 97% efficiency rating and SEER figures of 19. They also come with comprehensive 10 year warranties.

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  • Quick & Easy Installation
  • Durable for Price

Average Cost to Install:$3,285 to $5,432

Energy Efficiency:13 - 20.5 SEER

Bryant Air Conditioning Units

Bryant air conditioning brand is another great brand that needs to be considered when discussing options for HVAC replacement. Bryant is a well known brand that offers AC units, heat pumps, and gas furnaces. It is reasonably priced and is a sister company to some of the other top brands on our list. Bryant air conditioners are often made with the same quality parts as a Carrier brand HVAC system. If you want to install a mid tier AC replacement with a 14 SEER Bryant Preferred 124ANS air conditioner, it would cost $3,285 to $5,432 in installation costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do air conditioner brands really matter?

When installing a new central AC unit, top air conditioner brands and associated costs can be an important decision factor. Brands can usually offer a price point to fit any budget from low cost AC units to top performing units. Some brands offer extensive warranties, boast incredible customer support teams, and offer smart home technology for your new air conditioner.

It really depends on your budget and what you value the most in a new AC unit and the brand of it. Like most things, you get what you pay for and should plan your budget accordingly.

What is a good SEER rating for an AC unit?

A SEER rating indicates how energy efficient your new central AC unit will be. Higher SEER ratings can mean a higher initial price for the air conditioner itself and total installation, but you will save in the long run on energy bills.

The minimum SEER rating you can get is a 13 SEER AC unit. Most of the best air conditioner brands will have a SEER rating from 14 to 21. The highest energy efficient air conditioner can go up to a 26 SEER rating offered by high tier brands like Lennox and other best AC brands discussed on this page. Understanding the basics of SEER ratings will help you choose the right AC unit for your home and budget.

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How do you find a reliable local AC contractor fast?

When you need to install a new central AC system, it can become an urgent situation if your home’s temperature starts to become extremely cold or unpleasantly warm. Finding a reliable local AC contractor fast is possible.

The best strategy is to ask friends and family for recommendations. It is then smart to vet those contractors by using a service like Modernize to instantly compare multiple quotes from the top contractors.

We provide information on local service professionals along with their current Google business ratings, Better Business Bureau ratings, and even recent reviews from homeowners in your neighborhood who also completed HVAC projects with those same AC contractors that install the top AC brands. You can also use our HVAC contractor checklist to make sure you hire the right person for efficient and smooth run for your home project.

Can you negotiate AC installation costs?

Negotiating the costs of your air conditioner installation with your contractor is definitely possible. You should always have backup resources to justify the local costs in your area for a new AC unit. HVAC installation costs typically range from $3,500 to $7,525.

Homeowners can often reduce costs of the contract estimate and terms by getting multiple installation price quotes in their area. Homeowners can also leverage our HVAC cost calculator to get average local prices to use as a strategic negotiation tactic.

What is the average lifespan of a new AC unit?

A new air conditioner can last anywhere from 12 to 15 years. As your AC unit gets older it is smart to have annual HVAC checkups on your system by a service professional to make sure you get the most out of your new air conditioner. The best HVAC brands will last at least 15 years or longer if maintained properly throughout their lifespan.

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FAQs

Which is No 1 AC brand? ›

LG is one of the best AC brands in India, as it consistently delivers efficient products. The LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star AI DUAL Inverter Split AC is a top product by LG with a 5-star energy efficiency rating and annual energy consumption on the lower strata.

Which AC brand is better? ›

LG, Samsung, Blue Star, Voltas, Hitachi, Daikin, and Panasonic, are some of the best brands in the top 10 AC brands in India.

Who is top selling brand AC? ›

Hitachi AC

It is also one of the top-selling best AC brand in India that offer high-quality air conditioners and refrigerators, among other products. Hitachi AC offers several capacities like 1 Ton 1.5 Ton AC, and more with better energy ratings and more.

Which AC is best for home? ›

Best AC In India: Top Split AC
  • Panasonic 1.5 Ton 5 Star Split Air Conditioner - 28% Off. ...
  • Whirlpool 1.5 Ton 5 Star, Inverter Split AC - 51% Off. ...
  • Samsung 1.5 Ton 5 Star Split AC - 37% Off. ...
  • Daikin 1.5 Ton 4 Star Inverter Split AC - Save Rs 18,410. ...
  • IFB 1.5 Ton 4 Star Gold Series Inverter Split AC - 28% Off.
2 days ago

Which AC compressor is best? ›

Rotary compressors are the preferred option when operating noise is a factor. They are quiet, have a modest footprint, and do not suffer from vibration as much as other compressors. In the unit, a bladed shaft rotates within a graduated cylinder to push and compress refrigerant at the same time.

Which AC lasts the longest? ›

How long do AC units last?
  • Window Unit AC — 10 years.
  • Portable AC — 5-10 years.
  • Residential single whole-home AC unit — 15 years.
  • Central air-source heat pumps — 15 years (and up to 20–25 years if well-maintained and in a well-insulated home)
  • Ductless mini-split AC systems (heat pumps) — 20 years.

Which AC is best value for money? ›

Best AC Under Rs 20,000: Budget-Friendly Window AC's For Small Spaces
Window Air ConditionerCapacityBest AC price
Blue Star 3 Star Rating Window AC1.0 TonRs 27,49099
Voltas 2 Star Window AC0.75 TonRs 16,990
AmazonBasics 3 Star Window AC0.75 TonRs 16,999
Lloyd 3 Star Window AC1.0 TonRs 20,290
May 27, 2022

Do air conditioner brands really matter? ›

The short answer is YES! Brand does matter when you purchase a new HVAC system for your home. However, as long as you purchase a top-tier brand, the differences between those brands are small.

What brand of HVAC is the most reliable? ›

As champions of providing summertime comfort, central air conditioners are all about performance and reliability.
...
  • Best Air Conditioner Brands 2023.
  • American Standard.
  • Amana.
  • Lennox.
  • Frigidaire.
  • Rheem.
  • Coleman.
  • Heil.
4 days ago

What AC brand has the best warranty? ›

Which HVAC system has the best warranty? Major HVAC brands like Trane and Lennox have parts warranties that extend up to 20 years on some products.

Which AC is easiest to maintain? ›

Maintenance and Serviceability

Since a window AC has just one unit, the cost of maintenance is low, and it is easier to service.

How to buy best air conditioner? ›

An important part of the air conditioner buying guide is to help you understand the power consumption of your AC. The BEE Rating, now called ISEER rating, is issued keeping in mind an ACs Energy-Efficiency Ratio (EER). Air conditioners are rated in British Thermal Units (BTUs), regardless of their tonnage and capacity.

Which AC is best for hot weather? ›

This is an ideal time to buy your air conditioning system before the summer season comes knocking.
  • Panasonic 1.5 Ton - 3 Star Wi-Fi Twin-Cool Inverter Split Air Conditioner: ...
  • LG 1.5 Ton - 3 Star Inverter Split AC: ...
  • Daikin 1.5 Ton - 5 Star Inverter Split AC: ...
  • Blue Star 1.5 Ton - 3 Star Inverter Split AC:
Jan 27, 2023

What type of air compressor lasts the longest? ›

A rotary screw compressor runs 100% of the time, so you can get your job done without interruption. Rotary screw air compressors last longer than reciprocating air compressors.

Is it better to replace compressor or buy new AC? ›

The compressor is an expensive item to replace. Because dead compressors usually happen in old air conditioners, it's more cost-effective to start over with a new AC rather than pay to put a new compressor into a system that's already wasting power and a few years from the junk heap.

Should ductwork be replaced after 20 years? ›

If your ductwork is over 15 years old, you probably should replace it. Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system's efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”

Can AC units last 30 years? ›

It is highly unlikely that your unit will last 30 years before needing to be replaced, however, if you follow a regular preventative maintenance routine and run it appropriately, your chances of keeping the same unit for around 15 years increases dramatically. Check out our tips on how it's done.

Is there a difference between AC brands? ›

However, we're going to let you in on a little secret: most major brands are comparable in quality and features. While they may have a few small differences here or there, the truth is you're going to see fairly equal performance across the board for systems of the same size from different manufacturers.

How reliable is a Goodman air conditioner? ›

Goodman HVAC systems aren't the most technologically advanced or the most energy efficient, but they are some of the most reliable. They're also relatively affordable given their quality, which is backed by a 10-year limited parts warranty and either a two- or 10-year unit replacement warranty.

Is Lennox better then Trane? ›

Key Differences Between Lennox, Trane and Carrier

Energy Efficiency: In terms of efficiency, Lennox takes the lead with some units having a SEER rating up to 26. Maintenance and Repairs: Carrier has parts readily available and not overpriced when it comes to convenience in repairs and maintenance.

Is Trane or Carrier better? ›

There is no difference in terms of basic and mid-level units of both the brands when it comes to deciding the superiority in terms of quality. However, if you are looking forward to buying a top-line model, then you must go with Trane as it has a better warranty on their compressors.

What is a good SEER rating for an air conditioner? ›

A good SEER rating is typically 14 or higher.

The average efficiency rating for a central air conditioner in operation today is 16 but high energy-efficient models can have ratings as high as 23.

Is Lennox better than Carrier? ›

Efficiency Comparison – Lennox (#1), Carrier (#2) and Trane (#3) That's the rankings. Lennox makes the most efficient central air conditioners in the two-stage and variable capacity levels. Carrier's most efficient model is higher than Trane's, but Trane has slightly more efficient single stage and two stage ACs.

Which AC has the best ending? ›

But what the fan community considers the happiest, most positive ending for the game is the one in which all the members of your family are alive and reunited: Myrinne, Nikolaus, Deimos, Stentor, and yourself. It's also called the "Family" ending.

Which AC is best and less electricity? ›

5 Star ACs That Provide Optimal Cooling At Low Electricity Expense
Air ConditionerCapacity
Panasonic 1.5 Ton 5 Star Wi-Fi Twin-Cool Inverter Split AC1.5 Ton
Voltas 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Split AC1.5 Ton
Godrej 1 Ton 5 Star Inverter Split AC1 Ton
Hitachi 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Split AC1.5 Ton
4 more rows
Jan 19, 2023

Is Trane or carrier better? ›

There is no difference in terms of basic and mid-level units of both the brands when it comes to deciding the superiority in terms of quality. However, if you are looking forward to buying a top-line model, then you must go with Trane as it has a better warranty on their compressors.

Which is No 2 AC in world? ›

11. IFB
#Product
1Panasonic 2 Ton 3 Star Wi-Fi Twin-Cool Inverter Split Air Conditioner (Copper, Auto Convertible,...Buy on Amazon
2Blue Star 0.8 Tons 3 Star Inverter Split AC(Copper, 2020 Model, IC309RBTU, White)Buy on Amazon
3Onida 1 Ton 3 Star Inverter Split AC (Copper IR123GRD, White)Buy on Amazon
7 more rows
Aug 30, 2021

Is Lennox or Trane better? ›

Trane is the top AC brand for 2023 followed by Lennox and Carrier close behind – this is according to data compiled from consumers and AC technicians that work on all the brands. This page includes prices, ratings, warranties, pros and cons, and similarities and differences between the best central AC brands.

What AC manufacturer has the best warranty? ›

They offer up to 12-year limited warranties on most of their products. All you need to do is register online on the Daikin website. The 12-year warranty in particular is a game changer – no other manufacturer in the industry offers it.

Will HVAC prices go up in 2023? ›

Many HVAC manufacturers have already announced price increases going into 2023, making headlines as another round of price increases go into effect.

Is Carrier the best AC unit? ›

Carrier places No. 1 in our rating of Best HVAC Companies of 2023. The company was founded by Willis Carrier, the man who invented the first modern air conditioning system in 1902, and has long been considered an industry leader.

How much does a 3.5 ton Trane AC unit cost? ›

Price As Per the Size of the Unit
Unit SizeCooling AreaInstalled Cost
2 tons1000 – 1300 sq. ft.$3,399
2.5 tons1300 – 1600 sq. ft.$3,575
3 tons1600 – 1900 sq. ft.$3,798
3.5 tons1900 – 2200 sq. ft.$4,275
3 more rows

Which AC is best and cheap? ›

ARTICLES
Window Air ConditionerCapacityBest AC price
Blue Star 3 Star Rating Window AC1.0 TonRs 27,49099
Voltas 2 Star Window AC0.75 TonRs 16,990
AmazonBasics 3 Star Window AC0.75 TonRs 16,999
Lloyd 3 Star Window AC1.0 TonRs 20,290
May 27, 2022

What is the latest AC technology? ›

The newest air conditioning technology uses renewable energy sources, such as solar energy. This type of HVAC technology is not limited to solar energy and natural gas, but also thermally driven heats and colds. The hottest new HVAC technology uses natural gas to cool buildings, which reduces electricity costs.

Who is the biggest manufacturer of AC? ›

Gree Electric Appliances Inc. of Zhuhai is a Chinese major appliance manufacturer headquartered in Zhuhai, Guangdong province. It is the world's largest residential air-conditioner manufacturer.

Is Lennox as good as Carrier? ›

When you compare Lennox and Carrier central air conditioners, they have several similarities. Both brands make high-efficiency models and have great ratings for reliability. In fact, most of their features are comparable. Six Lennox models ranked on the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2020 list of central air conditioners.

Is Lennox high end? ›

Lennox HVAC systems are some of the most expensive on the market. Expect to pay between $3,000 and $7,500, depending on the model, series and size. However, Lennox has a long history in the industry and has a great reputation for making high-quality, long-lasting and highly efficient products.

Is Lennox a premium brand? ›

Both Trane and Lennox are considered premium brands in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) industry so it's natural that these two are compared to each other often.

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