Early spring is a good time to think about replacing your central air conditioner—or installing a whole new system. It can be a huge expense, so you’ll want to get it right.
In this guide, we’ll help you choose the right AC system for your home—and then maintain it, so you can get the longest life and best performance possible. We’ll also share some tips on how to find a goodheating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) technician to do the work.
Consumer Reports members can see our ratings for themost reliable ducted AC brands, based on survey data we’ve collected about almost 24,000 AC units in real-world use, bought and installed between 2005 and 2020. Based on what we’ve found in our survey, we predict that about 36 percent of central AC systems will encounter problems in the first eight years of ownership, so it can pay to pick a brand that’s more reliable.(Through our survey, we also learned whichbrands owners tend to be most satisfied with, the costs of repairs, and which parts break most often.)
(We don’t have performance ratings for central air conditioning systems. It’s not practical for Consumer Reports to test them because there are so many variables, including a home’s size and design, how the system is installed, and construction of the ductwork.)
What's New With Central Air Conditioning
If you’re buying a new central AC for the first time in a while (most AC units last at least a decade), you’ll find that today’s models are more energy-efficient, which means they cost less to run while keeping you cool and comfortable.
Ductless air conditioners are also more common and affordable than they were a decade ago. These can be a great option if you’re retrofitting a permanent air conditioning system to a house (or a section of a house) that does not already have ductwork. Here’s a little more on the differences between ducted and ductless ACs.
Ducted vs Ductless
Central Air Conditioning
A true central air conditioning system uses ducts to distribute cooled air throughout the house. In a “split system,” the most common design, refrigerant circulates between an indoor coil and a matching—meaning from the same brand—outdoor condenser with compressor (see illustration, below). The refrigerant cools the air, dehumidifying it in the process; a blower circulates air through ducts throughout the house. A thermostat maintains the temperature at the setting you select.
Split Ductless Systems
Split ductless systems have an outside condenser and compressor, and one to four or more indoor blower units, called air handlers, mounted high on the wall, that distribute air. The indoor and outdoor sections are connected by a thin conduit that houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and a condensate drain. The conduit is run through about a 3-inch hole hidden behind each air handler. Each air handler cools the room in which it’s installed, and you set the temperature with a remote control. Professional installation is recommended. While not technically central air, they’re much quieter and more efficient than window ACs or portable ACs, and can be an easier, more affordable option to install than a true central air system.
Consider a Heat Pump
You can also consider an air-source heat pump in place of an AC-only system. Heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling. In cooling mode, they work exactly like air conditioners. And come colder weather, they’re the most energy-efficient system for home heating.
They’ve been common in warm parts of the U.S. for decades, but now there are plenty of air-source heat pumps that can provide most or all of a home’s heating needs, even in cold climates. You can also use a heat pump in combination with an existing or supplementary heating system. An installer can set it up so that the heat pump operates most of the time, but then when the outdoor temperature drops below a certain threshold and the heat pump becomes less practical, another system—such as a gas-fired furnace—will kick in. (A rule of thumb for that threshold is about 20°F, but the cutoff can be a little warmer, or much colder, depending on the system.)
Heat pumps are available in ducted or ductless versions. (Some so-called ductless air conditioners are actually heat pumps.) They tend to cost a little more than AC-only units but less than the combined cost of a new heating and cooling system. Because heat pumps are so energy-efficient, some state governments offer tax incentives or even direct cash rebates to homeowners who install air-source heat pumps, which sometimes makes them the lowest-cost option for home heating and cooling. Read ourheat pump buying guidefor more.
How an Air Conditioner Works
To provide cooling throughout the home, an air conditioner transfers heat from a home’s interior to the outside.
Keep Your Ducts in a Row
If you are installing an AC system from scratch, your contractor should calculate the size of the cooling equipment you need using recognized methods, such as those you’ll find in the Residential Load Calculation Manual, aka Manual J, from theAir Conditioning Contractors of America(ACCA).
If your home already has ductwork but you’re installing your first AC system, keep in mind that ducts used for heating might not be the right size or in the right location for optimal cooling. Your contractor should ensure that duct sections are properly sized and that there are enough supply registers to deliver sufficient air to the right spots. Undersized ductwork can make for inefficient and noisy operation.
Also, it’s wise to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated. Otherwise, air can escape, wasting 20 to 30 percent of the energy used to run your system. Sealing your ducts will keep you cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Important Factors for Choosing Central AC
Size, aka Capacity
A synonym for the air conditioner’s cooling capacity, size is measured in British thermal units per hour (Btu/hr.) or in “tons.” One ton of cooling equals 12,000 Btu/hr. For rough sizing guidance, check theEnergy Star website. But the best thing to do is have your contractor do a load calculation based on a recognized method, such as one in Manual J from the ACCA.
It’s important to pick the right AC capacity for the size of your home. A unit that’s too small will struggle to keep your home comfortable. An oversized unit will cost you more to purchase, and (unless it’s a model with a variable-speed compressor) will cycle on and off more often than it should, stressing the components and struggling to control the humidity in your home.
If you’re replacing your central air, you should look into whether you really need the same size system as your old unit, or if you can shrink it a bit. Any changes you’ve made to improve your home’s energy efficiency, such as upgrading your windows or adding insulation, can reduce your cooling needs. On the other hand, if you’ve added rooms, you might need more cooling.
Efficiency
This describes how much cooling the unit delivers for each watt of electricity. Efficiency is expressed as the seasonal energy-efficiency rating, or SEER. The higher the SEER, the greater the efficiency. Higher-SEER ACs tend to cost more, but they’ll often pay for themselves over time through lower energy costs. The minimum SEER allowed for a new split system central air conditioner in the U.S. today is 14, which is at least 20 percent more efficient than minimum-efficiency models made even 10 years ago. Systems that meet the Energy Star guidelines for efficiency have a minimum SEER of 15. The most efficient models reach a SEER of 26.
Noise
According to our reader survey, quiet operation is the feature that is the best predictor for an owner’s overall satisfaction with their air conditioner. Manufacturers publish the noise levels for their products, across a variety of outdoor temperatures and fan speeds, measured in decibels. A lower rating is better, especially if the AC will be installed near a bedroom window.
Reliability
Reliability is the second-best predictor for an owner’s overall satisfaction with an air conditioner (tied with how quickly it cools the room, though that has more to do with whether the AC is sized correctly for your home, and whether it’s maintained properly). Consumer Reports members can see thepredicted reliability ratings for 21 brands of central air conditioners, based on data that members have shared about the AC units they bought and installed in their own homes between 2005 and 2020.
What to Know About Central AC Maintenance
Central AC systems need regular maintenance for optimal performance. When you negotiate your installation, it’s worth negotiating a service plan that combines regular inspections with discounts on repairs and a labor warranty into the overall price. Prices for such a service can vary widely.
Here’s what you’ll want the service technician to handle: Once a year, have them clean and flush the coils, drain the pan and drainage system, and vacuum the blower compartments. The contractor should also check to make sure that the system is properly charged with refrigerant, that there are no leaks, and that all mechanical components are working properly.
You can also handle some of the maintenance on your own. Clean grilles and filters monthly. Clear debris and dirt from condenser coils and check for blockages in the drainpipe. Follow the AC manufacturer’s recommendations for changing the filter, and the filter manufacturer’s recommendations for how often you should change the filter. In general, the thicker the disposable filter, the less often it needs to be changed. (The HVAC filters we testlast between three and 12 months.)
Other Details to Consider
Programmable thermostats.Setting your smart or programmable thermostat at the right temperature can reduce your cooling costs by about 10percent. The right temperature depends on your comfort level, but start by setting it at 78°F and experiment until you find the sweet spot. You’ll save about 3 percent on your utility bill for every degree you raise the set temperature for your central air, according to the Department of Energy. And keep in mind that using a box or ceiling fan, which costs little to run, can make you feel 3°F to 4°F cooler.
Outdoor space.Thecompressor needs adequate airflow to operate correctly, so make sure to keep at least 2 to 3 feet of space between the unit and any plants or structures. And there should also be 5 feet of clearance between the top of the unit and any trees above. You’ll also want to make sure there’s enough space for you or a technician to access and service the unit. And your local building codes might have regulations about how close an outdoor compressor is allowed to be from a neighbor’s window or property line.
Find the Right Contractor
Whether you’re replacing an older air conditioner or installing one for the first time, finding a trustworthy contractor to install and service the air conditioning system matters the most. Here’s what to do.
Ask around.Seek referrals from neighbors, family, or business associates. It’s wise to get price quotes from at least three contractors.
Check their background.Contractors who bid on your installation should show you verification of bonding and insurance, plus any required contractor’s licenses. Check with your local Better Business Bureau and consumer affairs office for complaint records. It’s a plus if technicians are certified by a trade organization, such as North American Technician Excellence or HVAC Excellence, to service residential heating and cooling equipment. Those and similar programs assess the technician’s knowledge of specific types of equipment and their proper service methods.
Get specifics.Contractors who bid on your job should calculate required cooling capacity using a recognized method, such as one found in the ACCA’s Residential Load Calculation Manual, also called Manual J. An additional reference for assessing ductwork needs is Manual D. The calculations produce a detailed, room-by-room analysis of cooling needs. Ask for a printout of all calculations and assumptions, including ductwork design. Be leery of a contractor who bases estimates merely on house size or vague rules of thumb.
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FAQs
What is the best type of central air conditioning? ›
Many will agree that a multi-split unit is the most energy-efficient type of air-con out there. It operates with several air conditioners indoors using only one external compressor. For More RoomsIf you have many rooms in the house, you will benefit from this type of AC without needing to buy an outdoor unit for all.
What SEER rating should I buy? ›For most homeowners, opting for a unit with a SEER between 15 and 18 is a good choice because it's a balance between the money you'll spend for the unit and the amount you'll save on utility costs.
What need to know in buying a central air conditioner? ›- Understand SEER. Air conditioner efficiency is measured using the seasonal energy efficiency rating, or SEER. ...
- Know What Tonnage You Need. ...
- Know the Cost to Install a New A/C Unit. ...
- Get at Least Three Quotes.
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.
Is Carrier HVAC better than Lennox? ›Is Carrier heat pump better than Lennox? Regarding the entry-level offering for heat pumps, Carrier is the clear winner. The Carrier Comfort® series is quieter and more energy efficient than its Lennox counterpart, the Lennox Merit® series.
What is a good air conditioner brand? ›- Lennox.
- Carrier.
- York.
- Trane.
- American Standard.
- LG.
- Ruud.
- Amana.
Currently, the most efficient traditional central air conditioner is the Lennox XC25 with a SEER rating of 26. But, the most efficient type of air conditioner available today are ductless mini split systems. Their SEER ratings can be as high as 38!
Is it worth upgrading from 14 SEER to 16 SEER? ›A 16 SEER unit is about 13% more efficient than a 14 SEER. For every $100 you spend to cool your home with a 14 SEER, you could save $13 on your monthly bill by upgrading to the 16 SEER unit.
Should I go with a 13 SEER or 16 SEER? ›Generally, the higher the SEER, the more efficient it is. If you are dealing with hot days and cool evenings you may want to consider a higher SEER amount. 13 SEER A/C units are single stage, which is cheaper initially but cost more to run in the same amount of time you'd be using the 16 SEER unit.
Is 16 SEER worth the extra money? ›Benefits of a Higher SEER Rating
A rating above 16 SEER is associated with lower energy consumption, which translates to less money spent on energy costs. Replacing an 8 SEER AC or heat pump unit with a 16 SEER one may save you up to 50 percent on your energy bill.
What questions to ask when buying a central air conditioner? ›
- How Large Should the Air Conditioner Be? ...
- How Efficient Is the New System? ...
- What New Technology Do I Need? ...
- What Is the Installation Timeline? ...
- Who Will Do the Work? ...
- What Brands Do You Offer? ...
- Should I Schedule Preventive Maintenance?
While every unit is different, and every homeowner has a different understanding of when their central air conditioner is broken beyond repair, it's fair to say that, with proper maintenance and care, you can expect a good 15 to 20 years of cooling from a new high efficiency air conditioning system.
What size Central AC do I need for 2000 square feet? ›For example, when considering what size air conditioner is needed for a 2,000 square foot home, you would likely choose a 3 or 3.5 ton unit, depending on the climate where you live.
Which is more reliable Carrier or Trane? ›Trane and Carrier are two of the top air conditioner brands in the United States, and both have earned excellent reputations throughout the years. Consumer Reports lists Trane at the top of their brand reliability rankings, scoring a perfect five out of five for both predicted reliability and owner satisfaction.
Is Trane owned by Carrier? ›Trane is part of Ingersoll Rand.
Is Rheem as good as Carrier? ›Rheem air conditioners are not so efficient, and the parts break a lot as compared to carrier ACs. Unlike Carrier air conditioning systems, there is more leakage of pipes and refrigerant happens with Rheem ACs. If you do not often change the AC unit in a year or two, then Carrier will be a better choice here.
What HVAC manufacturer has the best warranty? ›- Liberty Home Guard: Best Customer Ratings.
- American Home Shield: Best Coverage Caps.
- First American Home Warranty: Best Appliance Coverage.
- Select Home Warranty: Best Value.
- America's 1st Choice Home Club: Best for Customization.
Carrier's prices are hard to predict because they vary based on the model you buy and its installation. With installation costs added, most Trane models are more expensive than the average Carrier model with a SEER of 17.
Is Lennox owned by Carrier? ›Lennox International is owned almost entirely by members of the Norris family, which has controlled the company since 1904; John W. Norris, Jr., is chairman of the board and chief executive officer. About 100 descendants of founder D. W. Norris own shares of Lennox.
Which is No 1 AC brand? ›Best AC Brands In India. 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.
Is American Standard as good as Trane? ›
That's right, there is no difference between Trane and American Standard, they're exactly the same product! The only exception to that statement is the condensing unit top that comes on a few of the high-efficiency condenser models. Under the Trane name, these models are equipped with the DuraTuff aka All Weather top.
What is the most reliable AC unit? ›- Trane Central AC Units.
- Rheem Air Conditioners.
- Lennox HVAC Units.
- York AC Units.
- Ruud Central Air Conditioners.
- Amana HVAC Systems.
- HEIL Air Conditioners.
- Bryant Air Conditioning Units.
What does an air conditioner's SEER rating really mean? SEER is one indicator of an air conditioner's efficiency. Nowadays, the lowest SEER rating for most residential air conditioning systems is 14. The highest is 25 for standard split systems (mini splits are even more efficient).
What SEER rating qualifies for ENERGY STAR? ›Since January 2006, all residential air conditioners sold in the United States must have a SEER of at least 13. ENERGY STAR qualified central air conditioners must have a SEER of at least 14. By upgrading from SEER 9 to SEER 14, you can reduce your energy consumption by more than 35%.
Which AC consumes least electricity? ›The 5-star ACs are more energy-efficient than a 3-star AC unit. The electricity consumption of a 5-star AC (1.5 tons) is approximately 1.5 units per hour, whereas a 3-star AC (1.5 tons) consumes 1.6 units every hour.
Which air conditioner is best for less electricity? ›- LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star Wi-Fi Inverter Window AC. ...
- LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star AI DUAL Inverter Split AC. ...
- Voltas 1.5 Ton 5 Star Window AC. ...
- Panasonic 1 Ton 5 Star Wi-Fi Inverter Split Air Conditioner. ...
- Whirlpool 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Split AC. ...
- LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star Wi-Fi Inverter Window AC. ...
- LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star AI DUAL Inverter Split AC.
Starting January 1, 2023, you may be eligible for the new and improved 25C Energy Efficiency Home Improvement tax credit, and it's a $2,000 federal income tax credit for heat pump HVAC systems.
Does a higher SEER AC cool better? ›The higher the SEER, the more efficient the cooling system should be. Similarly, cars with higher miles-per-gallon ratios go further with less fuel.
Does a higher SEER last longer? ›Comparing Seer Ratings. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher the SEER rating the more efficient the unit will run, thus leading to lower energy bills.
What is the new SEER rating for 2023? ›The minimum SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating in 2023 increased from 13 to 14. This transition to SEER2 also includes efficiency increases for split systems in air conditioning and heat pumps.
Does 14 SEER AC qualify for tax credit? ›
Central Air Conditioning
You can qualify for tax credit up to $300. Split systems must have a minimum of 16 SEER and 13 EER whereas packaged systems must meet or exceed 14 SEER and 12 EER.
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.
Is Goodman as good as Trane? ›Goodman's top-of-the-line air conditioners and heat pumps tend to be more energy-efficient and come with a better warranty that includes lifetime coverage on the compressor. Similarly, its top furnaces come with a lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger. However, Trane offers more options in all three categories.
How much do you save with 15 SEER vs 16 SEER? ›Let's look at some examples: 15 SEER vs 16 SEER: You save (16/15 – 1) * 100% = 6,67% savings per SEER.
What is the SEER rating for Trane? ›Trane air conditioners range from 13.4 SEER2 up to 21.5 SEER2. But don't forget — this rating is a maximum. The efficiency of your system can vary based on the size of your home, your current ductwork and other variables.
What should I expect to pay for a new air conditioner? ›The national average to install a new AC unit is $5,644, with a typical price range of $3,810 to $7,480. Central AC unit costs are determined by a few primary factors: the amount of ductwork needed, the size of the unit, the SEER rating, and any needed repairs.
Should I get multiple quotes for HVAC? ›In short, always get multiple quotes from comparable contractors. Make sure to do your research on the equipment offered by each company, along with equipment parts warranty and the labour warranty offered by your installer.
What should I look for when installing an air conditioner? ›- Cost: It is a common practice to purchase the least expensive AC systems to save up costs. ...
- Quality: ...
- Size: ...
- Efficient Ductwork: ...
- Energy Consumption: ...
- Air Quality: ...
- Durability: ...
- Installation:
Leaving your air conditioner on is actually more efficient than frequently turning it on and off. Having your AC on also allows you to better control humidity in your home throughout the day. The lower the humidity in a home, the more comfortable it feels during hot weather.
Should I replace a 20 year old AC unit? ›The average lifespan of an HVAC system is 15 to 20 years, but as these systems age, they tend to get less efficient. If your HVAC is over 10 years old, consider replacing it with a more energy-efficient unit, such as one that has earned the ENERGY STAR label.
How long does it take to replace a central AC unit? ›
If it is a straightforward AC replacement with no issues, expect the job to be done within 2-6 hours, depending on the size of your home. However, if it is a first-time installation, it will always take longer.
How many square feet will a 4 ton AC unit cover? ›A 4 ton unit will typically cool between 2000 square feet and 2400 square feet. See our free system sizing calculator for sizing assistance. Many people will tell you to figure about 500-600 square feet of living space for each ton of cooling.
What happens if your AC unit is too big? ›Air conditioners that are too big consume more energy, endure more wear and tear, and simply don't work as well or as long as an appropriately sized unit. This can cause higher utility bills, more repairs, and discomfort in your home.
Which HVAC manufacturer has best warranty? ›- Liberty Home Guard: Best Customer Ratings.
- American Home Shield: Best Coverage Caps.
- First American Home Warranty: Best Appliance Coverage.
- Select Home Warranty: Best Value.
- America's 1st Choice Home Club: Best for Customization.
The short answer is YES! The 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 is a common mistake in ductwork installation? ›Duct Design Mistake #1: Undersized Ductwork
If your ducts are too small, they won't be able to deliver adequate heating and cooling for your home, no matter how powerful your furnace and air conditioner are. It takes a well-trained professional to determine the right size for your ductwork.
Heat pumps are the most energy efficient heating systems around. They move air in and out of the home, using various methods to heat and cool the air in the home. Air-source heat pumps use refrigerant to cool air when in cooling mode, and extract heat from air outside when in heating mode.
How long will a Lennox AC unit last? ›The average lifespan of your Carrier or Lennox or Trane air conditioner is between 10 and 15-years. Very few Trane, Lennox and Carrier central air conditioners go 15-20 years without needing repair, whether minor or major. There are potential issues worth considering.
Which air conditioners have longest warranty? ›Major HVAC brands like Trane and Lennox have parts warranties that extend up to 20 years on some products.
What is the highest SEER rating? ›What does an air conditioner's SEER rating really mean? SEER is one indicator of an air conditioner's efficiency. Nowadays, the lowest SEER rating for most residential air conditioning systems is 14. The highest is 25 for standard split systems (mini splits are even more efficient).
Which AC unit is the most reliable? ›
- Trane Central AC Units.
- Rheem Air Conditioners.
- Lennox HVAC Units.
- York AC Units.
- Ruud Central Air Conditioners.
- Amana HVAC Systems.
- HEIL Air Conditioners.
- Bryant Air Conditioning Units.
Trane and Carrier are two of the top air conditioner brands in the United States, and both have earned excellent reputations throughout the years. Consumer Reports lists Trane at the top of their brand reliability rankings, scoring a perfect five out of five for both predicted reliability and owner satisfaction.
Is American Standard as good as Lennox? ›Lennox eeks out the win for energy efficiency, with its flagship unit scoring a SEER rating of 26. American Standard's most efficient unit only hits 22 SEER. Add in that some Lennox units come with solar panels, and you have 8% more energy efficiency from the Lennox brand. The top-tier units are the most efficient.
Is Trane made in China? ›Although the Taicang operation is currently Trane's only factory in China, the business has an extensive presence in the country with 29 sales offices, 13 commercial and residential air conditioning service centers, and 13 large central air conditioning service centers.