Founded in 1915 by Willis Carrier, the inventor of modern air conditioning, Carrier is a leading manufacturer in the air conditioning and space heating industry. Widely regarded as a premium brand among HVAC installers, Carrier offers high-efficiency air conditioners with smart controls and noise-reduction technology. However, the company also provides more affordable product lines with standard efficiency and basic features.
We’ve reviewed Carrier’s product lines, efficiency ratings, and typical installation costs to help you decide if it’s the best air conditioner brand for your home.
Get Estimates from HVAC Experts in Your Area
Compare quotes from top-rated local pros
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Makes some of the most energy-efficient air conditioners for homes
- Offers both premium and affordable product lines to meet all budgets
- Has a solid brand reputation with over 100 years of experience
Cons
- Higher-end models can have an installed cost of over $10,000, which might not work for budget homeowners
- Doesn’t offer standardized labor warranties so terms may vary by installer
- Installation Matters: According to TOH guidance on HVAC installations, you should get quotes from at least three local HVAC contractors with good reputations and stellar online reviews. Look for affiliation with the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) — and an ACCA certificate in residential HVAC design is even better. Since Carrier doesn’t offer standardized labor warranties, the contractor you choose will directly affect your coverage and long-term maintenance experience.
Fast Facts
- Our Rating: 4.8
- Average Cost: $3,000–$15,000 according to the Carrier website
- SEER2 Rating: 13.4–24
- Parts Warranty: 5–10 years
Pro Tip
- As TOH plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey explains, today’s high-efficiency heat pump systems deliver exceptional value: “For a dollar’s worth of electricity, you get $3 or $4 worth of equivalent heat out of it.” When evaluating Carrier’s higher-SEER2 models, factor in that kind of energy return—the upfront premium on a more efficient unit can pay for itself over time.
Our Take on Carrier
Carrier stands out for its reliable, high-efficiency air conditioners and its long track record in the HVAC industry. The company offers air conditioners with up to 24 SEER2 efficiency, which can deliver electricity savings of over 40% compared to standard-efficiency models. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER rating measures the cooling output of your unit, with higher ratings indicating more energy efficiency. The current system, SEER2, reflects updated testing standards as of 2023.
Many high-end Carrier systems also include noise-reduction technology, operating as quietly as 51 decibels—similar to the sound of a quiet conversation or light rainfall. Carrier is frequently ranked among the best air conditioner brands in the U.S., along with competitors like Trane and Lennox.
While Carrier is best known for its premium air conditioners, the company also offers mid-range and budget-friendly options. However, these lower-cost AC units are generally less efficient and louder than their high-end counterparts. The best Carrier air conditioners can exceed $10,000 with installation costs, while the company’s most affordable options range from around $3,000–$5,000.
By default, Carrier provides a 5-year limited parts warranty, but if you register your unit within 90 days of installation, the coverage extends to 10 years. Depending on the installer, you may have the option to choose a 5-year parts warranty and 3-year labor warranty instead. However, Carrier doesn’t standardize labor warranties, meaning your coverage can vary depending on your chosen installer.
We Recommend Carrier If You:
- Want a high-efficiency air conditioner that can help you save on power bills
- Plan to stay in your current home for 10 years or more and want a durable unit
- Prefer a quiet air conditioner that won’t disrupt sleep or daily life
- Value brand reputation and want a system from a trusted manufacturer
We Don’t Recommend Carrier If You:
- Prefer the lowest possible cost for a new air conditioner
- Expect to move to another home within a few years
- Want a standardized labor warranty that doesn’t depend on registration or installer
Carrier Overview
Carrier is a pioneer in the HVAC industry, founded by Willis Carrier, the inventor of air conditioning himself. The company is known for setting high standards in system performance and efficiency. Learn more about the features of Carrier air conditioners in the sections below.
Cost
The Carrier website mentions a typical price range of $3,000–$15,000 for its air conditioning systems. Budget-friendly units with standard efficiency fall on the lower end of this price range, while premium-efficiency units with noise reduction and other advanced features have the highest costs. However, Carrier doesn’t publish pricing for specific air conditioner models online, meaning you must contact an authorized installer to receive a quote.
Warranties
Carrier offers a 5-year limited parts warranty, which extends to 10 years if you register your unit within 90 days of installation. Depending on your installer, you may have the option of adding a 3-year labor warranty instead of extending the parts warranty to 10 years.
Fine Print
To maintain your warranty coverage, Carrier requires proof of regular professional maintenance. Also, if you don’t register your unit within 90 days of installation, you lose the opportunity to receive 10-year coverage. Finally, Carrier doesn’t standardize labor warranties for its authorized dealers, meaning coverage can vary depending on the HVAC installer.
SEER Ratings
Carrier offers multiple product lines with various efficiency levels. The Infinity Series offers a SEER2 rating of up to 24, making it one of the most efficient options in the market. On the other hand, the more affordable Comfort Series starts at a SEER2 rating of 13.4, with select models reaching up to 16 SEER2.
Sound Ratings
Carrier’s premium air conditioners operate as quietly as 51 decibels (dB), which is similar to a quiet conversation. In contrast, budget-friendly options can reach around 72 dB, which is comparable to a washing machine or a loud indoor conversation.
Pro Tip
- Ross Trethewey, TOH’s HVAC and plumbing expert, explains that even a 10-decibel reduction makes a dramatic difference: “It might not sound like much, going from 80 to 70 on the dBA scale, but that represents twice the loudness. So I’ll cut it in half by going from 80 to 70.” When evaluating Carrier models, pay close attention to the dB ratings — a few points on the scale can mean a significant change in perceived noise.
Additional Services
In addition to air conditioners, Carrier manufactures a wide range of HVAC products. These include furnaces, heat pumps, boilers, smart thermostats, air purifiers, and dehumidifiers.
Types of Carrier Air Conditioners
Carrier offers multiple air conditioner models, classified into three main product lines:
These premium air conditioners use variable-speed compressors, offering efficiency ratings of up to 24 SEER2 and quiet operation. However, this is also Carrier’s most expensive product line.
This mid-range product line includes models with single-stage and two-stage compressors, offering up to 18 SEER2 efficiency. The Performance Series offers a balance between cost, comfort, and energy efficiency.
Pro Tip: Richard Trethewey, TOH plumbing and heating expert, recommends investing in a two-stage compressor, which works at full power only on the hottest days. The rest of the time, the air handler operates longer and has more time to squeeze humidity out of the indoor air. “You save energy and you’re more comfortable,” he says. “How can you beat that?”
This is Carrier’s budget-friendly product line, with single-stage compressors and efficiency ratings of up to 16 SEER2. However, these units only offer basic features and operate at higher noise levels than other Carrier product lines.
Quote and Installation Process
If you want to install a Carrier air conditioner, you must work with a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer. After you request a quote, a certified technician will typically visit your home to assess your current HVAC system, insulation level, square footage, and other design factors that influence cooling needs. Based on this information, the Carrier installer will recommend an appropriate system and provide a detailed quote.
Carrier maintains a controlled distribution network, selling its HVAC units exclusively through authorized dealers that meet certain technical requirements. We don’t recommend hiring an unauthorized contractor to install a Carrier air conditioner, since you will most likely void your warranty—even if the installation is properly done.
- What Happens During Installation: Once the outdoor unit is positioned and refrigerant lines are connected, the installer will wire 220-volt electrical service with a disconnect switch and surge protector. Before adding refrigerant, the technician pressurizes the system with nitrogen to check for leaks, then uses a vacuum pump to evacuate all air and impurities from the line sets — a critical step that ensures the system runs cleanly and efficiently from day one.
Carrier Customer Reviews: Reddit, BBB, Yelp, and More
Carrier has an A- rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) but limited customer reviews on the site and other platforms such as Trustpilot. The company claims that since 2017, Carrier has received over 20,000 product reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Additionally, Carrier dealers have received an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Customers have generally praised Carrier for its premium air conditioners, including satisfaction with the high efficiency and quiet operation. However, our review of negative feedback on the BBB and Reddit found complaints often related to the company’s authorized dealers, including installation issues and poor customer service.
How Carrier Compares to Other Top HVAC Companies
Carrier ranks among the top-rated HVAC manufacturers for its high-efficiency air conditioners with advanced features. However, Carrier is also a more expensive brand and doesn’t extend a standardized labor warranty for its dealer network. We compare Carrier with other popular air conditioner brands below.
| Brand | Our Rating | Average Cost | Warranty Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
$3,000–$15,000 | 5-year parts warranty (10 years with registration) | ||
$3,500–$12,000 | 5-year parts warranty (10 years with registration) | ||
$4,000–$13,000 | 5-year parts warranty (10 years with registration) and 10-year compressor warranty | ||
 | $3,000–$7,500 | 5-year parts warranty (10 years with registration) and lifetime compressor warranty with select models | |
 | $3,000–$8,500 | 10-year parts and unit replacement warranty | |
 | $3,500–$10,000 | 5-year parts warranty (10 years with registration), 5–10 year compressor warranty, and lifetime warranty with registration |
FAQs About Carrier Air Conditioners
Is Carrier a good air conditioner brand?
Yes, Carrier is widely regarded as a top-tier brand in the industry due to its energy efficiency, durability, and quiet operation. Founded in 1915 by Willis Carrier, the inventor of modern air conditioning, Carrier has a 110-year track record.
How long will a Carrier AC last?
A Carrier air conditioner can last for up to 15–20 years with regular inspections and proper maintenance, according to the company. Getting a professional installation is also key to ensure high performance and maintain warranty coverage.
Is Trane or Carrier a better AC brand?
Trane and Carrier are both premium brands that offer reliable and efficient air conditioners. However, Trane is slightly better in terms of durability, while Carrier is slightly better in terms of energy efficiency. If you’re looking for a new air conditioner for your home, you can find good options with both Trane and Carrier.
Is LG or Carrier a better AC brand?
Both air conditioning brands are good, but the companies excel in making different types of equipment. LG is generally a better option if you’re looking for a ductless mini-split system, while Carrier is typically a better choice if you’re looking for a central air conditioner.
How We Evaluated HVAC Brands
Our team is dedicated to reviewing air conditioner brands using a detailed methodology that allows for thorough and impartial ratings. We base our reviews on transparent evaluations of each brand supported by industry insights, product research, and an in-depth cost analysis. This system helps inform our ratings and recommendations for homeowners like you.
Our Rating System
Our rating system for HVAC providers operates on a 100-point scale, which is then converted to a 5-star rating, based on the following factors:
- System cost (20 points): We evaluated each brand’s average price range for a full-size air conditioning unit or furnace, which typically ranges from $3,100–$8,500. Companies with a lower average price received more points.
- Efficiency rating (20 points): We assessed the company’s energy efficiency ratings, specifically products with the highest SEER and annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). The higher these ratings, the better a company scored.
- Sound rating (10 points): We analyzed the company’s lowest sound rating measured in decibels. Companies with quieter units received higher scores.
- Warranty options (10 points): We gave the most points to companies that offer warranties exceeding the average duration of 5–10 years. We deducted points from companies with warranties that cover three or fewer parts.
- Energy Star certification (10 points): Companies with Energy Star-certified products received additional points.
- Reputation (10 points): We reviewed each company’s rating from the BBB. Points were deducted for any alerts or pending lawsuits against the company.
- Customer service and resources (20 points): We considered the level of customer support and resources available, including user-friendly product search tools, commonly asked questions sections, pricing guides, online manuals, and mobile apps.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
