The Best Options in 2026 - Tested by Experts
Our team spent thousands of hours researching and testing to bring you this definitive ranking. Updated monthly.
Quick Comparison
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Pricing | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Carrier Editor's Choice | 4.8 | From ~$5,500 installed | Excellent | Visit Site → |
| #2 | Trane Best Reliability | 4.7 | From ~$5,200 installed | Excellent | Visit Site → |
| #3 | Lennox Quietest Systems | 4.6 | From ~$5,800 installed | Excellent | Visit Site → |
| #4 | Rheem Best Value | 4.4 | From ~$3,800 installed | Very Good | Visit Site → |
| #5 | Goodman Budget Pick | 4.1 | From ~$3,200 installed | Good | Visit Site → |
| #6 | Mitsubishi Electric | 4.5 | From ~$3,500 installed (single zone) | Very Good | Visit Site → |
Detailed Reviews
Carrier
Carrier invented modern air conditioning in 1902 and continues to lead the industry with the most energy-efficient systems, quietest operation, and best-in-class smart home integration. Their Infinity series consistently tops efficiency and reliability rankings.
Pros
- +Best-in-class energy efficiency with SEER2 ratings up to 26
- +Greenspeed variable-speed technology provides ultra-precise temperature control
- +Industry-leading quiet operation across both indoor and outdoor units
- +Strong smart home integration with Wi-Fi thermostats and app control
Cons
- −Premium pricing - Carrier systems cost 15-25% more than budget brands
- −Installation quality varies by dealer - choose a Carrier Factory Authorized dealer
- −Parts availability can be slower in rural areas due to proprietary components
Trane
Trane has earned its reputation as the most reliable HVAC brand in America. Built to withstand extreme conditions, Trane systems consistently rank #1 in long-term durability surveys. Their dealer network is among the best trained in the industry.
Pros
- +Best long-term reliability and durability of any major HVAC brand
- +Rigorous extreme-condition testing exceeds industry standards
- +Excellent dealer training program produces consistently quality installations
- +Strong resale value - a Trane system adds value to your home
Cons
- −Premium pricing similar to Carrier - not a budget option
- −Some older model lines have less advanced smart features than Carrier
- −Variable-speed options are limited to the highest-tier XV series
Lennox
Lennox builds the quietest and most energy-efficient HVAC systems available. Their SL series air conditioners and heat pumps achieve SEER2 ratings up to 28 - the highest in the residential market - with sound levels as low as 59 dB.
Pros
- +Highest energy efficiency ratings in the residential HVAC market
- +Quietest operation available - ideal for noise-sensitive homeowners
- +iComfort smart platform is the most advanced thermostat ecosystem in HVAC
- +Solar-ready integration for homeowners with or planning solar panels
Cons
- −Most expensive brand on our list - the SL series is a significant investment
- −Must use Lennox dealers for installation and warranty service
- −Parts are proprietary and more expensive to replace than universal components
Rheem
Rheem delivers strong performance and reliability at prices 20-30% below premium brands like Carrier and Trane. Their systems won't win efficiency awards, but they offer excellent value for homeowners who want solid, dependable heating and cooling without breaking the bank.
Pros
- +Best price-to-performance ratio in the HVAC market
- +Solid reliability record without the premium brand markup
- +EcoNet smart connectivity offers good app control at no extra cost
- +Wide dealer availability means competitive installation pricing
Cons
- −Maximum efficiency ratings don't match Carrier, Trane, or Lennox
- −Noise levels are average - not as quiet as premium brands
- −Variable-speed options are limited compared to premium competitors
Goodman
Goodman is the best-selling HVAC brand in America by unit volume, and for good reason: they offer the lowest prices in the market backed by a lifetime compressor warranty. For budget-conscious homeowners who need a reliable replacement without premium features, Goodman delivers.
Pros
- +Lowest upfront cost of any major brand - ideal for tight budgets
- +Lifetime compressor warranty provides long-term peace of mind
- +Backed by Daikin's global manufacturing and engineering resources
- +Widely available parts and broad dealer network for easy servicing
Cons
- −Lower efficiency ratings than premium and mid-tier brands
- −Build quality and noise levels are noticeably below Carrier and Trane
- −Fewer smart features and variable-speed options than competitors
Mitsubishi Electric
Mitsubishi Electric is the undisputed leader in ductless mini-split systems. If your home doesn't have ductwork, you're adding climate control to specific rooms, or you want the most efficient zoned heating and cooling available, Mitsubishi is the standard every other brand is measured against.
Pros
- +Best-in-class ductless mini-split technology with unmatched efficiency
- +Hyper-Heating works in extreme cold down to -13F - a genuine cold-climate solution
- +Zoned control eliminates heating/cooling unoccupied rooms - real energy savings
- +Whisper-quiet indoor units operate at just 19 dB - virtually silent
Cons
- −Multi-zone whole-home installations can be as expensive as ducted systems
- −Indoor wall-mounted units have a visible aesthetic impact on room decor
- −Installation requires a Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor for full warranty
How We Rank & Review
Our rankings are the result of a rigorous, multi-step evaluation process. We start with extensive market research to identify every viable option, then narrow the field based on reputation, customer feedback, and feature sets.
Each product on our list undergoes hands-on testing by our expert reviewers. We evaluate ease of setup, day-to-day usability, feature quality, customer support responsiveness, and overall value for money.
We also survey real customers to understand long-term satisfaction and reliability. Our ratings combine expert scores with customer sentiment to give you a complete, balanced picture.
We update these rankings monthly as new products launch, prices change, and we gather more data. Our goal is to always give you the most current, accurate recommendations possible.