A Look at the Top AC Brands

While there isn't an official list of air conditioner brands, there have been many unofficial accounts of the preferred brands for both quality and efficiency. Two brands that consistently rank in the top five air conditioner brands are Trane and Carrier due to their long-standing reputation for excellence.

What sets these two brands apart from their competitors?

Trane: Space-Aged AC

Trane has earned a strong reputation in the air conditioning industry with over one hundred years of excellence in home heating and cooling.

Trane air conditioners are known for:

• high efficiency in all models


• established strict requirements for technicians who install Trane equipment


• recognized for excellence by peers and technicians


• produced their first air conditioning unit in 1931


• incorporates the latest technology in their models


• Trane equipment used in the Apollo 15 Lunar Rover in 1971

Carrier: The inventor of air conditioning

Carrier air conditioners also have a long history of satisfied customers and a strong reputation. Carrier thermostats such as the ComfortZone II are preferred by many customers for their functionality and ease of use.

Other things that Carrier is recognized for include:

• energy efficiency recognized by Energy Star and the EPA


• economically responsible research and design


• impressive cooling abilities


• Use of "ozone friendly" refrigerants


• Largest HVAC producer and distributor in the United States

You have many choices when it comes to air conditioner brands to install in your home, and making the right choice now will save you both hassle and time later. Going with a trusted brand is important because you can feel confident that they will stand behind their product. Additionally, a warranty from a company with a strong history and reputation is a warranty that you can rely on for as long as you keep your air conditioner.

Another important thing to consider when evaluating the relative merits of each AC brand is that choosing a good contractor is just as important as installing a good system. Even the best system will not work as efficiently as possible or last for as long if it is not installed and maintained by an experienced and properly trained professional.