The best central AC brands in 2026 are Carrier, Trane, and Lennox for premium reliability and efficiency, with Goodman and Amana offering the strongest value. A 3-ton name-brand central AC unit costs $1,800–$7,500 for equipment alone, depending on brand and efficiency tier — and $4,200–$12,000 fully installed.
We analyzed 11 major brands across price, SEER2 efficiency, warranty terms, compressor technology, and contractor feedback to rank the best options for every budget. Every price listed is the 2026 equipment cost before installation labor.
Brand Rankings at a Glance
| Rank | Brand | Best For | SEER2 Range | 3-Ton Price Range | Warranty (Compressor) | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carrier | Best overall | 14.3–24+ | $2,400–$7,500 | 10 yr limited / lifetime* | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Trane | Durability | 14.3–22+ | $2,600–$7,200 | 12 yr limited | 9.3/10 |
| 3 | Lennox | Highest efficiency | 14.3–26 | $2,500–$8,000 | 10 yr limited | 9.1/10 |
| 4 | Rheem / Ruud | Best mid-range | 14.3–19.5 | $1,800–$4,800 | 10 yr limited | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | Amana | Best warranty | 14.3–19 | $1,600–$4,200 | Lifetime limited | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Goodman | Best budget | 14.3–19 | $1,400–$3,800 | 10 yr limited | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | York / Johnson Controls | Value pick | 14.3–20 | $1,800–$5,200 | 10 yr limited | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | American Standard | Trane alternative | 14.3–22 | $2,400–$6,800 | 12 yr limited | 8.8/10 |
| 9 | Bryant | Carrier alternative | 14.3–24 | $2,200–$6,500 | 10 yr limited | 8.7/10 |
| 10 | Heil / Tempstar | Budget option | 14.3–19 | $1,400–$3,600 | 10 yr limited | 7.8/10 |
| 11 | Daikin | Ductless + central | 14.3–24 | $2,200–$6,800 | 12 yr limited | 8.6/10 |
*Carrier offers a lifetime compressor warranty on select Infinity models when registered within 90 days.
About brand relationships: Carrier, Bryant, and Payne are all manufactured by Carrier Global. Trane and American Standard are both Johnson Controls brands, built in the same factories. Goodman and Amana are both owned by Daikin. These "sister brands" often share components but differ in available model tiers and dealer networks.
Detailed Cost Breakdown by Tonnage
2-Ton Central AC Units (24,000 BTU)
Best for homes 1,000–1,500 sq ft in moderate climates.
| Brand | Model Line | SEER2 | Equipment Cost | Compressor Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Comfort 24ACC6 | 14.3 | $1,400–$1,800 | Single-stage |
| Carrier | Performance 24SPA6 | 16.5 | $2,200–$2,800 | Single-stage |
| Trane | XR14 | 14.3 | $1,600–$2,000 | Single-stage |
| Trane | XR16 | 16 | $2,200–$2,700 | Single-stage |
| Lennox | Merit ML14XC1 | 14.3 | $1,500–$1,900 | Single-stage |
| Goodman | GSXN4 | 14.3 | $1,100–$1,500 | Single-stage |
| Goodman | GSXC7 | 17 | $2,000–$2,600 | Two-stage |
| Rheem | Classic RA14 | 14.3 | $1,300–$1,700 | Single-stage |
| Amana | ASX14 | 14.3 | $1,200–$1,600 | Single-stage |
2.5-Ton Central AC Units (30,000 BTU)
Best for homes 1,200–1,700 sq ft.
| Brand | Model Line | SEER2 | Equipment Cost | Compressor Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Comfort 24ACC6 | 14.3 | $1,600–$2,100 | Single-stage |
| Carrier | Infinity 24VNA0 | 24+ | $5,500–$7,000 | Variable-speed |
| Trane | XR14 | 14.3 | $1,800–$2,300 | Single-stage |
| Trane | XV18 | 18 | $4,200–$5,500 | Variable-speed |
| Lennox | Merit ML14XC1 | 14.3 | $1,700–$2,200 | Single-stage |
| Lennox | XC25 | 26 | $5,800–$7,500 | Variable-speed |
| Goodman | GSXN4 | 14.3 | $1,200–$1,700 | Single-stage |
| Rheem | Prestige RA20 | 19.5 | $3,200–$4,100 | Variable-speed |
| Amana | AVXC20 | 19 | $3,000–$3,900 | Variable-speed |
3-Ton Central AC Units (36,000 BTU)
The most common residential size, suitable for homes 1,500–2,100 sq ft.
| Brand | Model Line | SEER2 | Equipment Cost | Compressor Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Comfort 24ACC6 | 14.3 | $1,800–$2,400 | Single-stage |
| Carrier | Performance 24SPA6 | 16.5 | $2,800–$3,600 | Single-stage |
| Carrier | Infinity 24VNA0 | 24+ | $6,200–$7,500 | Variable-speed |
| Trane | XR14 | 14.3 | $2,000–$2,600 | Single-stage |
| Trane | XR16 | 16 | $2,800–$3,500 | Single-stage |
| Trane | XV20i | 20+ | $5,500–$7,200 | Variable-speed |
| Lennox | Merit ML14XC1 | 14.3 | $1,900–$2,500 | Single-stage |
| Lennox | Elite XC20 | 20 | $4,500–$5,800 | Two-stage |
| Lennox | XC25 | 26 | $6,500–$8,000 | Variable-speed |
| Goodman | GSXN4 | 14.3 | $1,400–$1,900 | Single-stage |
| Goodman | GSXC7 | 17 | $2,500–$3,200 | Two-stage |
| Rheem | Classic RA14 | 14.3 | $1,600–$2,100 | Single-stage |
| Rheem | Prestige RA20 | 19.5 | $3,800–$4,800 | Variable-speed |
| Amana | ASX14 | 14.3 | $1,400–$1,800 | Single-stage |
| Amana | AVXC20 | 19 | $3,400–$4,200 | Variable-speed |
3.5-Ton Central AC Units (42,000 BTU)
For homes 1,800–2,500 sq ft.
| Brand | Model Line | SEER2 | Equipment Cost | Compressor Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Comfort 24ACC6 | 14.3 | $2,000–$2,700 | Single-stage |
| Carrier | Infinity 24VNA0 | 24+ | $6,800–$8,200 | Variable-speed |
| Trane | XR14 | 14.3 | $2,200–$2,900 | Single-stage |
| Trane | XV20i | 20+ | $6,000–$7,800 | Variable-speed |
| Lennox | Merit ML14XC1 | 14.3 | $2,100–$2,800 | Single-stage |
| Goodman | GSXN4 | 14.3 | $1,600–$2,200 | Single-stage |
| Rheem | Classic RA14 | 14.3 | $1,800–$2,400 | Single-stage |
| Amana | ASX14 | 14.3 | $1,600–$2,100 | Single-stage |
4-Ton Central AC Units (48,000 BTU)
For homes 2,200–3,000 sq ft.
| Brand | Model Line | SEER2 | Equipment Cost | Compressor Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Comfort 24ACC6 | 14.3 | $2,200–$3,000 | Single-stage |
| Carrier | Performance 24SPA6 | 16.5 | $3,400–$4,400 | Single-stage |
| Carrier | Infinity 24VNA0 | 24+ | $7,200–$8,800 | Variable-speed |
| Trane | XR14 | 14.3 | $2,400–$3,200 | Single-stage |
| Trane | XR16 | 16 | $3,400–$4,300 | Single-stage |
| Lennox | Merit ML14XC1 | 14.3 | $2,400–$3,100 | Single-stage |
| Goodman | GSXN4 | 14.3 | $1,800–$2,500 | Single-stage |
| Rheem | Classic RA14 | 14.3 | $2,000–$2,700 | Single-stage |
| Amana | ASX14 | 14.3 | $1,800–$2,300 | Single-stage |
5-Ton Central AC Units (60,000 BTU)
For homes 3,000–4,000+ sq ft.
| Brand | Model Line | SEER2 | Equipment Cost | Compressor Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Comfort 24ACC6 | 14.3 | $2,600–$3,500 | Single-stage |
| Carrier | Infinity 24VNA0 | 24+ | $8,000–$9,500 | Variable-speed |
| Trane | XR14 | 14.3 | $2,800–$3,700 | Single-stage |
| Trane | XV20i | 20+ | $7,000–$8,800 | Variable-speed |
| Lennox | Merit ML14XC1 | 14.3 | $2,700–$3,500 | Single-stage |
| Lennox | XC25 | 26 | $7,500–$9,500 | Variable-speed |
| Goodman | GSXN4 | 14.3 | $2,000–$2,800 | Single-stage |
| Rheem | Classic RA14 | 14.3 | $2,200–$3,000 | Single-stage |
| Amana | ASX14 | 14.3 | $2,000–$2,700 | Single-stage |
In-Depth Brand Reviews
1. Carrier — Best Overall
Carrier invented modern air conditioning in 1902 and remains the benchmark. Their three-tier lineup (Comfort, Performance, Infinity) covers every budget. The Infinity 24VNA0 with Greenspeed Intelligence is the flagship — a variable-speed unit achieving 24+ SEER2 with the quietest operation in the industry (56 dB).
Strengths: Widest dealer network in the U.S. (5,000+ authorized dealers), exceptional variable-speed technology, strong brand reputation, comprehensive parts availability.
Weaknesses: Premium pricing across all tiers, Infinity communicating system locks you into Carrier-only components.
Best pick: Carrier Performance 24SPA6 (16.5 SEER2) offers solid efficiency at a mid-range price point.
2. Trane — Most Durable
Trane's reputation for durability is well-earned. Their Climatuff compressor and proprietary Spine Fin coil design resist corrosion better than most competitors. The 12-year warranty on all parts (when registered) is the best standard warranty among major brands.
Strengths: Industry-leading durability, 12-year parts warranty, excellent humidity control on XV models, strong contractor training programs.
Weaknesses: Slightly higher prices than Carrier for comparable SEER2 ratings, smaller variable-speed lineup.
Best pick: Trane XR16 (16 SEER2) for reliability at a reasonable price. XV20i for premium comfort.
3. Lennox — Highest Efficiency
Lennox makes the most efficient central AC on the market — the XC25 at up to 26 SEER2. Their SilentComfort technology makes Lennox units among the quietest available.
Strengths: Industry-leading SEER2 ratings, exceptionally quiet operation, compact unit footprint, strong innovation.
Weaknesses: Limited dealer network (Lennox-only dealers), higher repair costs due to proprietary parts, some models require specific Lennox-brand coils for full warranty.
Best pick: Lennox Elite EL18XCV (18 SEER2, variable-speed) balances efficiency and value.
4. Goodman — Best Budget
Owned by Daikin (the world's largest HVAC manufacturer), Goodman offers the lowest prices without sacrificing core quality. Their systems are manufactured in Houston, TX, and come with solid warranties.
Strengths: Lowest prices among major brands, strong parts availability, straightforward designs that are easy for any tech to service, 10-year warranty when registered.
Weaknesses: No variable-speed models above 19 SEER2, fewer dealer-exclusive features, basic aesthetics.
Best pick: Goodman GSXC7 (17 SEER2, two-stage) offers the best efficiency-to-cost ratio on the market.
5. Amana — Best Warranty
Amana is Goodman's sister brand (both Daikin) with one crucial advantage: a lifetime compressor limited warranty on select models. If the compressor fails at any point while you own the home, Amana replaces it.
Strengths: Lifetime compressor warranty on premium models, same Daikin manufacturing quality as Goodman, competitive pricing.
Weaknesses: Warranty requires original homeowner registration and is non-transferable, limited premium model selection.
Best pick: Amana AVXC20 (19 SEER2, variable-speed) with the lifetime compressor warranty.
Real-World Cost Comparisons
Example 1 — Budget 3-Ton Install (Midwest): Goodman GSXN4 (14.3 SEER2): $1,700 equipment + $2,400 labor + $180 thermostat = $4,280 total. Estimated annual cooling cost: $720.
Example 2 — Mid-Range 3-Ton Install (Southeast): Trane XR16 (16 SEER2): $3,200 equipment + $3,100 labor + $250 smart thermostat = $6,550 total. Estimated annual cooling cost: $610. Pays back vs. budget unit in ~8 years.
Example 3 — Premium 3-Ton Install (Southwest): Carrier Infinity 24VNA0 (24 SEER2): $7,200 equipment + $4,400 labor + $350 Infinity thermostat = $11,950 total. Estimated annual cooling cost: $380. Pays back vs. budget unit in ~12 years, but with far superior comfort and quiet operation.
Example 4 — Value 5-Ton Install (Texas): Amana AVXC20 (19 SEER2): $5,800 equipment + $3,800 labor + $250 thermostat = $9,850 total. Lifetime compressor warranty provides long-term peace of mind for a large-home system.
How to Choose the Right Brand
Decision Matrix
| Your Priority | Best Brand Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest upfront cost | Goodman | 20–40% cheaper than premium brands |
| Longest warranty | Amana | Lifetime compressor warranty |
| Maximum efficiency | Lennox | Up to 26 SEER2 |
| Proven durability | Trane | 12-year warranty, Climatuff compressor |
| Best all-around | Carrier | Widest range, strongest dealer network |
| Quietest operation | Lennox or Carrier | Both under 57 dB on premium models |
| Easy serviceability | Goodman or Rheem | Non-proprietary parts, any tech can work on them |
What Matters More Than Brand
Your installer matters more than the brand name on the box. A perfectly sized and installed Goodman will outperform a poorly installed Carrier every time. Here's what to look for in a contractor:
- NATE certification — North American Technician Excellence certification proves competency.
- Manual J load calculation — Any contractor who sizes by square footage alone is cutting corners.
- Manufacturer authorization — Authorized dealers have factory training and can offer the full manufacturer warranty.
- Written proposals — Get 3 written quotes that detail equipment model numbers, warranty terms, and scope of work.
- Reviews and references — Check Google, BBB, and ask for 3 recent references.
2026 Market Trends
R-454B transition: All major brands now ship R-454B units. If you're buying new in 2026, your system will use this low-GWP refrigerant. R-410A units manufactured before 2026 are still being sold as remaining inventory — avoid them if possible, as R-454B will have better long-term refrigerant availability.
Variable-speed becoming mainstream: Prices for inverter-driven compressors have dropped 15–20% over the past two years. What was once a $4,000 premium is now $2,000–$3,000 over single-stage. Expect variable-speed to become the mid-range standard within 2–3 years.
Smart integration: All major brands now offer Wi-Fi enabled thermostats and app-based monitoring. Carrier's Infinity, Trane's ComfortLink, and Lennox's iComfort platforms allow remote diagnostics and proactive maintenance alerts.
Key Takeaways:
- Carrier, Trane, and Lennox are the top-tier premium brands — you can't go wrong with any of them
- Goodman and Amana (both Daikin-owned) offer the best value without sacrificing reliability
- A 3-ton system costs $1,400–$8,000 for equipment depending on brand and efficiency
- Your installer's quality matters more than brand — get 3 quotes, verify NATE certification, require a Manual J
- In 2026, buy R-454B refrigerant systems — avoid leftover R-410A inventory
- Variable-speed compressors are worth the premium in hot climates and for homeowners who prioritize comfort