The 8 Top AC brands and why they’re great for your home

Here’s a closer look at the top AC brands based on energy efficiency, price, warranties, and more.

At a glance:

• The upfront cost of new AC systems can vary depending on durability and energy efficiency, but government incentives and long-term savings over time can offset those expenses.
• Many AC brands offer energy-efficient options, helping you not only save money, but also reduce your carbon footprint.
• It’s also important to research the warranties offered by each of these AC brands. This can protect your investment and save you stress later down the road.

Tetra researched the best AC systems,  boilers, air conditioners and furnace brands so you don't have to. These brands are the best when it comes to range, reliability, warranties, and service—we’d install each and every one of these AC systems in our own homes. Compare our 8 favorite AC brands so you can choose the best for your home.

First, let’s talk about the factors that helped us land on the top AC brands.

How does the average price compare to other AC systems?

Price is usually the factor that comes to mind when picking a new AC system. While the upfront cost of a new AC system can come with a sticker shock, it's also worth considering the long-term savings on your energy bill and other benefits that come with an HVAC system. Plus, there are plenty of government rebates and incentives to help offset the initial costs of energy-efficient systems and make these AC brands more accessible.

By opting for one of the top AC brands with a good energy efficiency rating, you can enjoy lower energy consumption, reduced utility bills, and ultimately more savings on your energy bill over time.

How energy efficient are these AC brands?

Energy efficiency is another important factor as it has a huge impact on your monthly energy bill, your budget, and your carbon footprint. Each AC system comes with an efficiency rating, typically measured by SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for cooling. The more energy-efficient your AC system, the better it is for the planet and for your wallet.

Which offers the best hvac warranties?

Alongside price and energy efficiency, warranties are another make-or-break factor when choosing an AC system.  An excellent system warranty can save you tons of money in maintenance costs, potential repairs, and labor. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your AC system is covered should anything happen is also worth mentioning.

By choosing an AC brand with a substantial warranty, homeowners can protect their investment and enjoy a comfortable home for many years to come.

Drum roll please, it’s time to name Tetra’s top AC brands

1. Bryant

Bryant is one of the great mid-range AC brands with a variety of options—especially when it comes to air conditioners. Owned by Carrier, Bryant promises the same quality as its premium parent brand, but at a slightly lower price point. Bryant is best known for their better-than-average energy efficiency, energy-saving features, and quiet operation. While Bryant is not as familiar as some bigger brands, they are a stand out among mid-range and economy AC brands.

Energy Efficiency of HVAC system - Bryant’s range of AC systems includes units with SEER ratings as high as 20.5. Their highest efficiency furnaces have AFUE ratings of 98.3%. Bryant carries both gas furnaces and oil furnaces.

Best HVAC brand Warranties - Most of Bryant’s AC systems come with a 10-year parts warranty, which is average compared to other brands. (how long are most AC systems under warranty or which HVAC brand has the best warranty)

Average Price of AC system: Bryant offers plenty of mid-range options with slightly lower prices compared to more premium AC brands.

2. Carrier

Carrier is a premium brand that has modernized the HVAC industry with its outstanding innovation. Every product in the Carrier range is top quality and guaranteed to be durable, technologically advanced and very high efficiency. They have a large range of products, so there’s something for every buyer.

Energy Efficiency - Carriers range of air conditioners includes units with SEER ratings as high as 21. Their highest-efficiency furnaces have AFUE ratings of 98.5%. Carrier has both gas furnaces and oil furnaces.

Warranties - Most of Carrier’s products come with a 10-year parts warranty, which is average compared to other brands.

Price: Carrier is considered more of a premium brand, so their AC systems come with a higher price tag. However, this AC brand usually offers better energy efficiency.

3. American Standard

Founded in the 1880s, American Standard is a leader in the HVAC industry. They have a huge range of high-quality options to fit any budget. Their products are recognized as being highly reliable for their price point and their air conditioners are unbeatable when it comes to noise control. One of American Standard’s best features is their AccuLink system, which allows remote monitoring of your furnace.

Energy Efficiency - American Standard’s range of air conditioners includes units with SEER ratings as high as 22. Their highest-efficiency furnaces have AFUE ratings of 97%, which is slightly lower than other brands. American standard has both gas furnaces and oil furnaces.

Warranties - Most of American Standard’s products come with a 10-year parts warranty, which is average compared to other brands. American Standard doesn’t offer lifetime warranties like other brands.

Price: American Standard is known for offering high-quality AC systems at a variety of price ranges.

4. Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi Electric is known globally as a leading producer of technology, including air conditioning units. They are best known as pioneers in ductless heating and cooling, with the most durable, reliable ductless units on the market. They also offer ducted heat pumps. Because Mitsubishi is an established brand, parts and service are easy to find.

Energy Efficiency - Mitsubishi’s most efficient ductless heat pump comes with a SEER rating of 26, well above the US government SEER standard of 14 for residential HVAC systems.

Warranties - Mitsubishi offers parts warranties up to 12 years.

Price: Mitsubishi is on the higher-end of AC brands, which comes with a higher price. However, you can expect great energy-efficiency, lower energy bills, and more long term savings over time from their AC systems.

5. Burnham Aspen (U.S Boiler Company)

Burnham Aspen makes some of the safest, most reliable boilers in the U.S. This higher-end boiler brand is known for their efficiency and durability. Burnham Aspen has gas boilers and oil-fired boilers, which are made in the U.S.A.

Energy Efficiency -  Burnham Aspen offers boilers with AFUE ratings as high as 95% and they regularly publish their energy certifications.

Warranties - Burnham Aspen warranties are strong. Their gas and oil boilers come with a limited lifetime manufacturer's warranty, as well as an optional 5- or 10-year extended warranty that covers all parts and labor.

Price: Burnham Aspen’s AC systems come with a higher upfront cost, but also offer greater energy efficiency and durability over time.

6. Weil-McLain

Founded in 1881, Weil-McLain boilers integrate the latest in advanced controls and materials, including cast iron, stainless steel, and aluminum heat exchanger technologies. Weil-McLain boilers are known for their reliability and energy efficiency. While Weil-McLain is well known for its oil-fired boilers, they are not as well known for gas boilers.

Energy Efficiency -  Weil-McLain’s most efficient condensing boiler has a AFUE rating of 96.5%.

Warranties - Weil-McLain boilers have the best warranties on the market.

Price: Weil-McLain is known for offering reliability and energy efficiency in their AC systems. They are more moderately priced considering the level of quality they maintain.

7. Buderus (Bosch)

Established in 1731, Buderus has a long history of innovation and a reputation for being among the best-quality brands available. Their boilers are especially known for their efficiency, and they have won numerous design awards. Buderus boilers are highly reliable, but on the off-chance you need repairs, they may cost slightly more to service than other brands. Buderus is owned by Bosch, a large, trusted appliance manufacturer.

Energy Efficiency - Buderus offers boilers with AFUE ratings as high as 97%.

Warranties - Buderus offers limited lifetime warranties, but they are average compared to other brands.

Price: These AC systems are usually priced slightly higher than average due to their brand reputation.

8. Navien

Navien was the first company to introduce a highly efficient, environmentally friendly condensing gas boiler. They've since grown to be a global boiler manufacturer and are the leader in wall-hung condensing boilers. Their combination gas boilers are well known and very popular. Navien boilers are a favorite for homeowners.

Energy Efficiency - Navien boilers have AFUE ratings as high as 95%.

Warranties - Navien boilers come with long warranties. The coverage is excellent if any repairs are needed.

Price: Navien offers high energy efficiency and excellent long term durability at a competitive price compared to most AC brands.

Now it’s time to decide which of these top AC brands is right for you

No matter which of these AC brands you choose, Tetra is always more affordable than other installers. Our buying power gets us wholesale prices on products and materials. Plus, we don’t use sales people. Since we skip sales fees and commissions, we can pass even more savings onto you. If you find a better quote, we’ll beat it by $300. Schedule a free consultation with the experts at Tetra today.