This Lennox AC Guide is a comprehensive review of Lennox air conditioner main models that will assist you in selecting the right unit for your climate and your efficiency and performance preferences.

The pros and cons are a good source of information when comparing Lennox to Amana air conditioners and other top brands we’ve reviewed including:

• Trane;
• Carrier;
• And other brands…

In 1895, Dave Lennox began manufacturing the first riveted steel furnace in the US. From that innovative start, Lennox has been a leader in residential performance and efficiency. A private company until 1999, Lennox is now a public brand and the parent company of several other HVAC brands. Some of them are Armstrong Air, Air-Ease and Ducane. However, their product lineups are different than Lennox’s.

Lennox Air Conditioner Brand Overview

Like many leading brands, this onemakes basic (Merit Series), better (Elite Series) and best series (Signature Collection) Lennox air conditioners. The differences involve efficiency and performance, the two major factors in how much an air conditioner costs.

The Lennox Signature Collection XC25 is the top pick for this entire brand. Also, it has the distinction of being the most efficient split system AC available with efficiency up to 26 SEER. There are 10 other models starting at 13 SEERS.

Lennox Air Conditioners Technical Specifications

The wide range of models is designed to meet consumers’ needs. This is whether they want a cheap, low-efficiency model or are willing to pay top dollar for a premium AC with great efficiency and climate control features.

• Lennox single-stage air conditioners are made in each series. They range in efficiency from 13 to 18.5 SEER with the top-pick Lennox SL18XC1. They make the industry’s most efficient single-stage model.
• Single-stage ACs are affordable, but run at full capacity all the time. Therefore, the cycles are loud and might cool past the thermostat set point.
• Lennox two-stage models are available at 17.2 SEER. The top-pick Lennox XC21 is a 21 SEER AC that is the most efficient in its class.
• Two-stage ACs run at low capacity for quieter, more balanced cycles. They remove more humidity from summer air than single-stage models can.
• Lennox makes two variable-capacity ACs, the XC25 and the Elite XC20 with a 20 SEER rating.
• Variable-capacity ACs modulate up and down like cruise control. They deliver precise balance, the quietest performance and the best dehumidification.
• All Lennox air conditioners are compatible with the brand’s SunSource solar panels that can provide enough energy for the entire HVAC system in sunny climates.

Pros and Cons of Lennox Air Conditioners

For all the advantages Lennox ACs offer, there are a few concerns to consider.

Lennox AC Pros

• Lennox’s high-efficiency ACs can reduce air conditioning costs and energy use by as much as 60 percent when replacing an old AC;
• Two variable-capacity models give you efficiency and cost options for premium indoor climate control;
• Seven Lennox air conditioner models meet Energy Star criteria. Also, they are eligible for rebates from many energy companies;
• Lennox covers the other bases too – affordable models for those that don’t require an efficient AC;
• The brand makes a full range of heating, air conditioning, home ventilation equipment and thermostats. Moreover, by coordinating a system with compatible components is the best way to optimize efficiency and comfort;
• The Wi-Fi thermostat controls allow you to monitor and control your HVAC from anywhere using a smart device;
• Lennox’s service record is in the top 5-7 of all brands in most years.

Lennox AC Cons

• Most Lennox air conditioner models cost more than comparable ACs;
• Lennox warranties are average for the industry – 10 years for Signature Collection and Elite Series units and 5 years for Merit Series. Goodman, Amana, Maytag, Westinghouse and Heil are among the brands offering longer warranties;
• Lennox makes its own repair parts, unlike most other brands. While that might improve quality, supply-chain issues sometimes delay parts and repairs;
• The brand is currently having issues with Lennox air conditioner coils in some models;
• As is true with most top brands, you can only buy a Lennox air conditioner through an authorized dealer. So, comparing pricing is impossible without getting a sales presentation from a representative.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Lennox Air Conditioner

If you speak with a Lennox sales agent, we suggest you ask about the coil issues. If he or she claims not to be aware of the issue, try a different brand. Only choose Lennox if you get assurances from your local dealer that the coil will receive a proper warranty. While the part is covered for 10 years, the labor is generally covered for just one year. Consider purchasing an extended warranty on the labor.

When purchasing an air conditioner, the hotter your climate is, the more efficient your AC should be. The extra cost might be paid back through lower energy costs in as little as three years. Also, you’ll be saving money every cooling month beyond that.

Many of our readers are committed to ecofriendly heating and cooling. To create the least environmental impact, choose the most efficient AC you can afford and/or consider the installation of a whole-house attic fan. This option can quickly replace warm air in the home with cool evening air. If you’re in a sunny climate, ask your Lennox dealer about SunSource. The equipment is expensive, but it could reduce your cooling costs (heating too) to zero!

Ask your HVAC contractor to do a proper load test to ensure that the Lennox air conditioner you select has large enough capacity – but not too large. If your home has been made more energy efficient since the last AC was installed, perhaps by adding insulation or upgrading the windows, then your next air conditioner should be smaller.

Consider, Compare and Share

We hope this Lennox air conditioner guide has been helpful as you consider and compare one of the industry’s leading brands.

It’s easy to share this post on social media to benefit friends and followers looking at their central AC options.

Our Amana AC guide is your one-stop place to research for the right Amana central air conditioner. Then, you can decide if the brand is a good choice for your residential or commercial space. The information below allows you to browse Amana air conditioner performance with technical specification and top units in each class.

Amana AC pros and cons offer insight for comparing this brand with others we’ve reviewed. Our reviews include Goodman, Bryant, and Carrier.

Amana Air Conditioner Brand Overview

George Foerstner designed and started manufacturing a beverage cooler in Amana, IA, in 1934. His company grew into the Amana Corporation and enjoyed decades of innovative productivity. Some examples are the first upright freezer and first side-by-side refrigerator. In 1997, Goodman Manufacturing acquired Amana. The company maintained it as a separate brand but with a nearly identical product lineup to Goodman’s.

The next chapter began in 2014 when global HVAC giant Daikin acquired both brands. Currently, the Amana air conditioner lineup is being upgraded to make Amana/Daikin one of the top five to ten brands in the industry. This places them alongside Trane/American Standard, Carrier/Bryant, Maytag/Westinghouse and Lennox. Goodman remains the leading budget brand of HVAC equipment.

Amana Air Conditioner Technical Specifications

The eight Amana air conditioner models perform well in three classes:

• Base Amana ACs: These single-stage air conditioners with SEER ratings for efficiency between 14 SEER and the top pick in this series, the 16 SEER Energy Star-qualified Amana ASX16 central AC;
• Better Amana air conditioners: The ASXC16 with 16 SEER efficiency and the ASXC18 with 19 SEER efficiency, contain a two-stage scroll compressor for low-capacity/high-capacity cooling. This tool is quieter, reduces humidity better than single-stage models and improves temperature balance;
• The Amana AVXC20 is the best Amana air conditioner currently available. It has an outstanding 24.5 SEER rating made possible with the inverter technology compressor. The compressor runs at variable speed like cruise control with slight modulations. It aims to deliver precise cooling and premium dehumidification;
• Both Amana two-stage models and the variable speed AVXC20 are wired for an Amana ComfortNet Communications thermostat. This is a $500 upgrade that synchronizes system components to ensure the best possible performance and efficiency;
• As with all brands, superior efficiency and climate control go hand in hand. This is because the longer, slower cycles of two-stage and variable-capacity compressors make the best use of energy too.

Pros and Cons of Amana Air Conditioners

With the acquisition by Daikin, Amana is once again an industry leader. Here are reasons to consider Amana and a few potential disadvantages too.

Amana AC Pros

• The range of models in price, performance and efficiency create options for homeowners in all climates;
• Try replacing an old AC with a 19 SEER Amana ASXC18 or the 24.5 SEER Amana AVXC20. Then, you’ll get eco-friendly cooling that will cut energy costs up to 60%;
• The 24.5 SEER efficiency of the AVXC20 is in the top three of all models with the Lennox XC25 (26 SEER) and Maytag PSA4BI (25.5 SEER);
• Amana air conditioner models that qualify for Energy Star might also be eligible for energy rebates. So check with your local unity company or look for local rebates;
• Amana warranties are among the very best in the industry. They include a complete unit replacement warranty, covering the compressor on the top models;
• Even the base models ANX13 and ASX13 have 10-year warranties. All this time, base models from top brands like Carrier come with 5-year warranties and a higher price. That makes Amana a very good value;
• Amana air conditioners consistently receive verified user ratings above 90%, often as high as 98% recommendations.

Amana AC Cons

• The upgrade to Amana products has happened in the last few years. So if you choose Amana, make sure the equipment you receive was made in 2016 or later. This way you also ensure you’re getting a superior AC or complete HVAC system;
• As of this writing, none of the Amana control/thermostats are Wi-Fi enabled for controlling your system remotely using your phone and an app. But there are Wi-Fi thermostats like the ecobee3 and the 3^rd generation Nest thermostat that support Amana systems;
• With the upgrade in the quality of the Amana air conditioner lineup, it is likely that prices might rise and costs will be higher. But Goodman’s lineup that Amana was once identical with should remain a best seller in the low-cost HVAC market niche;
• There might be some early confusion about Amana’s old and new units. This is because the newer models need Daikin replacement parts, not the old Amana parts. But the confusion should be cleared up within the first few years. Also, new ACs shouldn’t require much service anyway.

Things to Consider Before Buying an Amana Air Conditioner

• Efficiency: The hotter and more humid your climate is on this Climate Zone map and/or the longer you plan to stay in your current home, the more cost-effective it is to buy a very efficient Amana air conditioner. It can be the 19 SEER ASXC18 or the 24.5 SEER AVXC20. In cool climates where running the AC is an occasional need, a moderately efficient model like the ANX13 or ANX14 cost less compared with more efficient models.
• Eco-friendliness: If minimizing your environmental impact is important to you, then buy the most efficient AC model you can afford. Keep it maintained to run as efficiently and durably as possible.
• AC vs. heat pump: ACs come with gas or oil furnaces, most of the time. But did you know that a heat pump is a more efficient way to heat than even an efficient gas furnace? And heat pumps provide air conditioning too. If you’re buying the equipment for new construction or are replacing an entire HVAC system, talk to your HVAC contractor about heat pump or dual fuel heat pump options.
• AC size: If you’ve added insulation or upgraded windows with energy-efficient glass, your replacement AC probably doesn’t need to be as large as the old one. It also shouldn’t be so. Talk to your contractor about doing a Manual J load calculation to accurately size the unit.

Choosing and Cooling

The best way to get a quality Amana air conditioner properly installed is to request estimates from three of the top HVAC companies in your area. Look for an experienced installer that is licensed, insured and has a proven track record of quality installation and excellent customer service.

We make HVAC research easy, and we hope it’s been interesting too. If your friends and followers might be researching an AC or HVAC system for their homes, perhaps they’d benefit from you sharing this Amana AC guide with them!

This Bryant AC review gives a detailed overview that will assist you in deciding if Bryant if the right brand. You can also find out which of its air conditioners is the best fit for your purposes. This is one of several Bryant AC reviews we’ve completed. If you’re looking for a complete HVAC system, see our Bryant Heating and Cooling Overview and guides to:

• Bryant Furnaces;
• Bryant Heat Pumps;
• Bryant Thermostats.

For comparison, browse our reviews of other AC brands and components including furnaces and heat pumps.

Bryant Brand Overview

Bryant HVAC has a history dating back to 1904 and founder Charles Bryant. The brand was at the forefront of the residential air conditioner revolution in the 1960s and was later bought by Carrier. Today, the Carrier and Bryant AC lines are quite similar. Both brands are owned by Fortune 100 company United Technologies.

Bryant’s air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, ductless systems and thermostats are considered among the very best available. That is why Bryant is among the best-selling HVAC brands.

Bryant AC Technical Specifications

This detailed summary lays out your efficiency and performance options. These include the top Bryant AC picks in good/better/best lines.

• Bryant Legacy air conditioners are affordable single-stage ACs, which means they run at full capacity only. They have fair quality and reliability backed by warranties of five to ten years.
• The best Bryant AC in the Legacy Series is the 16 SEER Bryant 106A that operates at 72 decibels, about average for single-stage ACs.
• Bryant Preferred air conditioner series is a mix of single-stage ACs and two-stage models that run on low most of the time. But they shift to high capacity for quickly cooling your home, backed by warranties up to ten years.
• The top pick in the Bryant Preferred Series is the 17.7 SEER, two-stage Bryant 127A AC that meets Energy Star qualifications.
• Bryant AC series with the best efficiency (21 SEER) and performance is the Bryant Evolution air conditioners, mostly with two-stage and variable-speed air compressors and backed by ten-year warranties.
• The variable-speed performance of the Evolution 189BNV air conditioner means that its capacity rises and falls in 1% increments based on the exact cooling needs of the home. So cooling is quiet and balanced.

Pros and Cons of the Bryant AC Line-up

Here are reasons that make Bryant AC one of the top five brands in the industry plus a few cautions to consider.

Bryant AC Pros

• Bryant AC units in the Evolution Series are among the most reliable made today. So with regularly scheduled maintenance, any product should last 20 years or more.
• Even a more affordable Bryant Legacy air conditioner will provide 15 years of durability if maintained.
• The variable-speed and two-stage Bryant AC models are designed to significantly reduce humidity in your home. So when humidity is lower, you can set your thermostat higher, save money and still be comfortable.
• When replacing an AC that is 15+ years old with a new Bryant Evolution or Preferred AC, you might see a reduction in cooling costs by as much as 50%.
• Because Bryant is a comprehensive HVAC brand, you can install a matched system featuring a Bryant AC, gas furnace, thermostat and indoor air quality equipment too, all synced to maximize efficiency and climate control.
• Bryant AC models for residential use range in size from 18,000 BTUs for small homes and apartments to 60,000 BTUs for large homes. However, the climate and facts about your home’s construction ultimately determine what size AC you need.
• The Bryant 124ANS is a compact central air conditioner ideal for use where space is limited such as on a patio or beneath a deck.
• Two Bryant AC models are designed to endure the salty environment of coastal regions, the Bryant Evolution 2-stage 187BNC and the 14 SEER single-stage Legacy 114CNC.

Bryant AC Cons

• While Bryant ACs offer good reliability, they are among the most expensive central air conditioners on the market.
• Bryant AC warranties are good. But there are better warranties on top models from Goodman, Amana, Maytag, Westinghouse and Heil.
• Most Bryant AC models are only sold through the company’s network of certified dealers. So learning about pricing is only possible by inviting a Bryant sales representative to your home.
• Even though Bryant is one of the top brands, several other brands make ACs that are more efficient than Bryant’s top 21 SEER AC including the 26 SEER Lennox XC25, the 25.5 SEER Maytag PSA4BI and the 24.5 SEER Amana AVXC20

Things to Consider Before Buying a Bryant AC

The first issue to consider is whether you need an AC or a heat pump. Heat pumps cost more than ACs. But they also heat your home and do it more efficiently than a gas furnace. If you live in a moderate or warm climate, you’ll pay a bit more upfront for a heat pump and air handler combination than for an AC and furnace combination. But your heating bills will be lower.

The hotter your climate is, or if you want to cool your home as efficiently as possible regardless of climate, then a model like the Evolution 180B with 21 SEER is a good choice. In cooler climates, it isn’t cost-effective to buy a very efficient AC because the payback period can be at least ten years. As a rule, the longer you intend to live in your current home, the more it makes financial sense to install a high-efficiency Bryant AC.

For the best price on a Bryant AC, request written estimates from several companies, and let them know they’re competing for the job. Also, if you can have your AC installed in early spring or in the fall, you might get better pricing than during the peak of summer.

Is a Bryant AC Right for Your Home?

Bryant air conditioners cost more. But Evolution and Preferred Series models offer very good durability for the money. If you’re willing to pay more for reliability you can trust, then a Bryant AC makes sense. If you’d prefer lower cost, even at the expense of some durability, consider Goodman ACs.

Has this Bryant AC review been of use to you as you consider this brand? If so, perhaps your friends and followers would appreciate it if you’d pass it along to them to help them research an air conditioner for their home.

Our Carrier AC buyers guide includes information about the top models in good/better/best Carrier AC series, efficiency ratings and Carrier air conditioner pros and cons. If you want a premium central air conditioner, then Carrier should be on your short list of brands to consider.

But homeowners can also compare Carrier central air conditioners with other top brands we’ve reviewed like Trane and Goodman. However, its units are priced at the top of their classes. But the quality, reliability and durability are among the best too. This brand launched by Willis Carrier 1902 was independent for decades and is now a division of United Technologies Corporation along with subsidiary Bryant.

Carrier Brand Overview and Carrier Air Conditioner Reviews

The 17 Carrier AC models represent one of the largest lineups in the industry with Infinity (best), Performance (better) and Comfort (basic) lines.  You have choices for efficiency and indoor climate control performance to fit your local cooling. Also, there are dehumidifying requirements whether the AC will be used occasionally or you need a workhorse AC to combat extreme summer heat and humidity.

Carrier AC Technical Specifications

Here’s a detailed summary of the three Carrier AC lines and what they offer in efficiency, performance and value.

Note: SEER ratings are Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a rating like gas mileage. The less energy required for the cooling you desire, the more efficient the unit is, and the higher its SEER rating will be.

• Carrier single-stage AC models are the most affordable and range in efficiency from 13 SEER, the least efficient currently allowed by law, to 16 SEER.
• All Carrier Comfort Series air conditioners are single-stage. Because the compressor always runs at full capacity, slight over-cooling can result at the end of the cycle.
• The top Carrier Comfort AC is the Comfort 16 24AAA6 with 16 SEER efficiency, good enough to be Energy Star rated.
• Carrier two-stage AC models run at low capacity most of the time. So cooling and de-humidification are more even and efficient than with single-stage models.
• Only one Carrier Performance Series AC has two-stage performance. This is the Performance 17 24ACB7 AC with a 17 SEER rating.
• There are three two-stage models in the top series, Carrier Infinity, with the top pick the 21 SEER Infinity 21 24ANB1.
• Carrier’s top AC for indoor comfort is the variable-speed Infinity 19VS 24VNA9 with 19 SEER cooling and a compressor that modulates from about 40 to 100 percent capacity to cool with little temperature fluctuation. So it dehumidifies more effectively.

Pros and Cons of Carrier Air Conditioners

As with all brands, there are good and bad points with the Carrier AC lineup.

Carrier Air Conditioner Pros

• This brand’s Infinity Series and Performance Series are highly rated by consumers for quality and reliability.
• These two series will last up to 25 years when properly maintained.
• Carrier is a popular brand. So repair parts are widely available and they can be serviced by any certified HVAC pro, not just a Carrier dealer.
• There is a Carrier model for every climate – affordable Comfort Series ACs for cool climates and part-time use, 16-19 SEER models in all series for areas with warm but not extreme summers and the 21 SEER Infinity model for very hot climates.
• All Carrier AC models use Puron-branded R-410A refrigerant. This one is better for the environment than earlier formulas.
• Models are offered from 18,000 BTU (1.5 ton) sizes to 60,000 BTU (5 ton) sizes to cool up to about 2,500 square feet depending on climate, home layout and other factors.
• The Infinity 21 24ANB1 with 21 SEER efficiency is very efficient, but it is a two-stage model. That makes it more affordable than if it were variable speed. So it has been rated an excellent value by a leading consumer group.
• The Infinity 17 Coastal AC has an enhanced coating and other features designed for areas where sea spray is an issue. Also, it comes with a 5-year coastal corrosion warranty that is decent but not outstanding.
• The Performance 14 24AHA4 is a compact AC requires only 6” of clearance and can be stacked for multi-family housing.

Carrier Air Conditioner Cons

• Despite being highly rated for durability, Carrier does not offer great warranties – 5 years on most Comfort models and 10 years on Infinity and some Performance models. Meanwhile, Goodman, Maytag, Heil and others have longer or more comprehensive warranties.
• Carrier AC models are the most expensive in their respective good (Comfort), better (Performance) and best (Infinity) classes. So, prices are not disclosed without having a sales person to your home to provide a written estimate.
• Carrier was one of the first major brands to have variable-speed/modulating technology. But it has fallen behind more efficient models from other brands like the 26 SEER Lennox XC25, the 25.5 SEER Maytag PSA4BI and the 24.5 SEER Amana AVXC20.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Carrier AC

Know what your air conditioning priorities are before meeting with a Carrier salesperson:

• Do you want high efficiency for green cooling regardless of your climate? Or do you prefer to match the SEER rating needed for cost-effective cooling given how warm your summers are?
• Also, do you want improved climate control from a two-stage or the variable-speed 19VS 24VNA9? OR would you prefer to live with minor temperature fluctuations of a single-stage model that costs significantly less?

The proven strategy for getting the best price on a new AC or entire split system is to request estimates from three local companies and letting them know they’re competing for the job.

Be sure that the salesperson does a sizing test for your home, so that the unit isn’t too small and won’t cool adequately or is too large and over-cools your home.

Carrier AC Review Wrap-Up

Thanks for checking out our Carrier AC review. We trust it has been helpful. If so, please share it with your friends and followers on social media. They might benefit from our Carrier air conditioner reviews on this leading AC brand!

Image from depositphotos.com.

When looking for a new central air conditioner, it’s important to know that the lowest central air conditioners prices are not necessarily the best prices. In fact, pricing should be among the last criteria on your list. Here’s what to focus on when buying a central air conditioning unit, and how each aspect influences the pricing of said unit:

Central Air Conditioner Prices: Why the Big Differences?

Central air conditioner units prices start off at about $800 for a new appliance and can go well beyond $10,000. This means installation and any additional work will increase the overall cost. Although the price range is extensive, it’s not unjustified. The most important variables when talking about central air conditioners prices are capacity, efficiency, and brand. Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved in acquiring and installing a new central air conditioner:

Central Air Conditioner Prices by Brand

Here are the most popular central air conditioner brands and their lowest, highest, and average prices:

Note: These prices only refer to the central air conditioner unit; Installation costs are not included in the examples above.

As you can see, the price range is considerable for many manufacturers. The lowest price usually refers to the small, less efficient, and usually, older models that are still available for sale. The highest prices are those of new appliances that feature the highest efficiency ratio and the most powerful compressors.

Even though the manufacturer is an important criterion when looking for a new central air conditioner, it is not the only one to matter. Capacity and efficiency are critical aspects that need to be taken into account when looking for a new central air conditioner.

Central Air Conditioner Prices by Capacity

Generally, the climate zone you live in determines the capacity of your future central air conditioner unit. However, the area of your home is a decisive factor, too. Here are the average prices for different central air conditioner units in terms of capacity:

Note: 1 ton = 12,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) = the amount of energy it would take to melt 1 ton of ice in 24 hours. To put things in perspective, a 12,000 BTU central air conditioner will be able to cool off about 500 square feet.

When buying a central air conditioner, it’s important to accurately match the unit’s capacity with the space it needs to cool off. An appliance that is too weak will obviously not be able to provide a comfortable temperature during summer months. However, one that’s too strong will cycle on and off every few minutes, thus becoming inefficient. In addition, given it will not work permanently, it will not be able to control the air humidity – an important factor when it comes to your comfort.

Central Air Conditioner Prices by Efficiency

The most efficient central air conditioners are usually the most expensive, but they are the cheapest to run. Therefore, the cheapest appliance is not always the best one for long-term use. in fact, efficiency should be among the first things to take into account when looking for a new central air conditioner. Here are the average prices for central AC units in terms of efficiency:

No matter their efficiency ratio, central air conditioners can be heavy consumers – especially if you live in warm or hot areas. At the moment of writing, the U.S. government offered a tax credit of about $300 for those who purchase central air conditioners that comply with Energy Star rules and have a SEER of 16 or more.

The highest efficiency central air conditioners are the best for our environment: They use significantly less energy and produce fewer greenhouse emissions. However, when it comes to our wallets, things are not that simple. There’s a fine balance between efficiency and overall costs, balance that mainly depends on the following factors:

• How much and often you will use your central air conditioner.
• How well insulated your home is.

For example, if you live in the northern part of the country and only use the central AC 2 or 3 months per year, sending more than $3,000 for a highly efficient appliance will not make as much sense as spending $2,000 for an average efficiency one. On the other hand, if you live in Southern California, a highly efficient central AC is the best way to go – but only if you have proper home insulation.

Extra Costs of a Central Air Conditioner Unit

The following initial expenses might save you more in the long run:

A Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to reduce energy consumption in your home. It can cost anywhere from $20 to $400, but will pay for itself in a month or so. A thermostat adjusts the activity of your central air conditioner based on a pattern inputted by you.

Extended Warranty

If you feel the manufacturer’s default warranty is not enough, you can invest in extending it. Default warranties usually last between 8 and 15 years, with an average of 10 – 12 years. Many sellers offer 1, 2, or 5 extra years of warranty for a few dozens or hundreds of dollars. This is particularly important for those who live in warmer climates since the appliance will be used more frequently.

Keep in mind the lifespan of a central air conditioner unit depends on how often you use it. The average lifespan of 10 years that most manufacturers promise refers to temperate areas where the appliance is used a few months per year. If you live is warmer climates with high humidity, or by the ocean where the air is saltier, your central AC is likely to last about 8 years or less.

Extra Functions

Most central air conditioners today come with a humidity control function. However, other features might be desirable for some customers. Quiet operation functions can be extremely useful for small homes or for those where the outside unit is placed near the bedrooms. Multistage compressors are another desirable feature in central ACs. They can significantly lower your energy bills and extend the appliance’s lifespan.

Central Air Conditioner Prices: Installation

Installation costs alone for a central air conditioning system range between $350 and $8,000 for a new appliance. Here’s the breakdown:

• Delivery costs: Completely depend on each retailer.
• Materials & supplies: Between $50 and $150 if your home already has ducts and they are properly insulated.
• Contractor(s): Between $300 and $2,000, depending on the amount of work needed to install the central AC unit. Some appliances can be installed in just a few hours with minimal effort, while others require extensive work. Under no circumstances should you install the central AC unit by yourself. This is a complex project that involves handling refrigerant, high-voltage electricity, and sensitive electronics – not to mention the environmental concerns that come with improper
• Ducting: Between $400 and $3,500, mainly depending on the size of your home.
• Insulation: Between $450 and $3000, depending on how many ducts you have in your home.
• Debris removal & cleanup: If you do not want to do this by yourself, be prepared to pay $100 at most for these services.

Some high-SEER central air conditioners will also require solar panels to keep the energy consumption to a minimum. Therefore, you might need to be ready to invest in these, too.

How to Find the Best Central Air Conditioner Prices

As mentioned before, the lowest price rarely is the best price. Here’s how to effectively find the best central air conditioner price and contractor:

• Ask yourself how long you plan on living in this house. If you are not sure, installing an expensive appliance might not be the best idea.
• Always check for references and read reviews for contractors.
• Ask recommendations and quotes from at least 3 professionals. Analyze what they have in common – ideally, they should have identical or similar capacities. Then, analyze their differences and see which ones matter the most to you. Maybe a certain model has an extensive warranty, while another is highly efficient. Use what you read in our article to decide which will fit your needs.
• Do not cheap out, but don’t go above your budget either.

Central Air Conditioner Prices Recap

All in all, installing a new central air conditioner will cost between $2,000 for small homes or apartments and $15,000 or more for large homes. Given the significant number of variables that decide the central air conditioner prices, it would be impossible to give a more accurate response.

Image source.