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Carrier Air Conditioner Review & Buying Guide
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15,000+
Carrier
4.6
Average Rating By Homeowner
$5,500
Average Price Including Installation
Carrier Air Conditioners At a Glance
Strengths
Areas for Improvement
Carrier Air Conditioner Review & Buying Guide
If you’re considering a Carrier air conditioner in 2023, this guide will help you decide whether it’s the right brand for your home and which model best fits your needs.
We’ll cover Carrier’s history and reputation, compare their air conditioner models, highlight exclusive features, review warranty coverage, and share insights from HVAC experts. You’ll also find guidance to help determine if Carrier is the right choice for you—plus tips on how to save money with rebates.
Thinking About a Carrier A/C?
Not sure if Carrier is worth the investment, or trying to decide which model makes the most sense? This guide provides everything you need to know about Carrier air conditioners, including:
- Company background and reputation
- A/C model comparisons
- Key features and innovations
- Warranty coverage versus competitors
- Expert opinions and buying tips
- Tools and quizzes to match you with the right system
Bottom Line
Carrier has a long-standing reputation for quality and innovation in the HVAC industry. Their InfinityⓇ Series—especially when paired with GreenspeedⓇ Intelligence—delivers premium efficiency, comfort, and performance, making it an excellent investment for homeowners seeking top-tier solutions.
On the other hand, the Performance™ and Comfort™ Series units are more basic. While they are efficient and reliable, they don’t include the advanced features that make Carrier’s premium systems stand out.
Model Breakdown and Comparison
What Are Warranty and Overall Grades?
At acprices.ca, we use a proprietary algorithm to calculate grades that make comparing air conditioner models simpler and more straightforward.
Warranty Grades
These scores factor in the details often hidden in the fine print—such as coverage terms, limitations, and exclusions. This way, homeowners can easily compare warranty protection without having to sift through lengthy and complex documents.
Overall Grades
These scores combine multiple considerations, including efficiency, features, and warranty coverage. Keep in mind that a lower grade doesn’t necessarily mean a model is a poor choice—budget-friendly options will naturally score lower than premium models.
Think of it like comparing vehicles: a high-end sports car will outperform a minivan in many categories, but that doesn’t make it the right choice for every family. Similarly, a top-tier air conditioner may earn the highest grade but won’t always be the most practical or cost-effective option for every homeowner.
| Model | Efficiency Rating (SEER) | ENERGY STAR® Certified | Compressor Type | Noise Level (dB) | Warranty Grade | Overall Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVXC20 | 24.5 | Yes | Variable Speed | 59 – 75 | A+ | A+ |
| ASXV9 | 22.5 | Yes | Variable Speed | 71 – 75 | A+ | A |
| ASXC18 | 19 | Yes | Dual Stage | 68 – 74 | A+ | A- |
| ASXC7 | 17.2 | Yes | Dual Stage | 71 – 75 | A+ | A- |
| ASXC16 | 17 | Yes | Dual Stage | 70 – 74 | A+ | A- |
| ASXS6 S-Series | 17.2 | Yes | Variable Speed | 66 – 74 | A+ | B+ |
| ASX16 | 16 | Yes | Single Stage | 71.5 – 73 | A+ | B+ |
| ASXH5 | 15.2 | Yes | Single Stage | 71 – 76 | A+ | B+ |
| ASX14 | 15 | No | Single Stage | 70 – 71 | B | C |
| ASX13 | 14 | No | Single Stage | 73 – 77 | B | C |
| ASXH4 | 14.3 | No | Single Stage | 71 – 76 | B | C |
| ASXH3 | 13.4 | No | Single Stage | 68 – 73 | B | C |
| ANX14 | 15 | No | Single Stage | 71 – 74 | B | D |
| ANX13 | 14 | No | Single Stage | 71 – 77 | B | D |
| ASXN4 | 14.3 | No | Single Stage | 71 – 75 | B | D |
| ASXN3 | 13.4 | No | Single Stage | 70 – 76 | B | D |
Carrier A/C Model Overview
Infinity® 26 Series with Greenspeed® Intelligence (24VNA6)
Full Review: Infinity® 26 Series Air Conditioner with Greenspeed® Intelligence 24VNA6
The Infinity® 26 is Carrier’s most advanced air conditioner to date—and their only variable-speed model. With a 26 SEER efficiency rating, this unit delivers exceptional energy savings and performance. Its variable-speed compressor runs between 25% and 100% capacity, ensuring precise temperature and humidity control. Thanks to Greenspeed® Intelligence and the Silencer System II™ design, it also operates at ultra-quiet levels.
Specs:
- SEER: 26
- Sound: As low as 51 dB
- Type: Variable-speed
- ENERGY STAR®: Yes
- Tier: Premium
- Best for: Homeowners with larger budgets who want top-of-the-line performance, especially in hot and humid climates like the Southern U.S.
Infinity® 19VS Series (24VNA9)
Full Review: Infinity® 19VS Series Air Conditioner 24VNA9
The Infinity® 19VS offers five stages of operation, allowing for flexible comfort and efficiency. It ensures consistent indoor temperatures, reliable humidity control, and quiet performance with the Silencer System II™. While it’s more affordable than the 26 Series, it’s still a premium model.
Specs:
- SEER: 19
- Sound: As low as 56 dB
- Type: Multi-stage
- ENERGY STAR®: Yes
- Tier: Premium
- Best for: Homeowners in warmer or more humid regions of Canada who want excellent comfort and quiet operation but don’t need the maximum efficiency of the Infinity® 26.
Performance™ 16 Series (24ACC6)
Full Review: Performance™ 16 Series Air Conditioner 24ACC6
Comparable to the Infinity® 16 Series, the Performance™ 16 is a more affordable mid-tier model designed for drier climates. While it lacks the Silencer System II™, it includes a compressor blanket to help reduce noise and vibrations.
Specs:
- SEER: 17
- Sound: As low as 72 dB
- Type: Single-stage
- ENERGY STAR®: Yes
- Tier: Mid
- Best for: Homeowners who value the Carrier name and reliability but want a more budget-friendly option for areas with dry summer heat.
Performance™ 14 Series Compact (24AHA4)
Full Review: Performance™ 14 Series Compact Central Air Conditioner 24AHA4
This compact single-stage unit is part of Carrier’s mid-tier line and offers reliable cooling with a 14 SEER rating. While it doesn’t include a compressor blanket, it still runs quietly. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for tight spaces, multi-family homes, or installations under decks.
Specs:
- SEER: 14
- Sound: As low as 66 dB
- Type: Single-stage
- ENERGY STAR®: No
- Tier: Mid
- Best for: Homes with limited outdoor space or situations where a compact system is necessary.
Performance™ 16 Series (24APB6)
Full Review: Performance™ 16 Series Air Conditioner 24APB6
This ENERGY STAR® certified model delivers 17 SEER efficiency with single-stage cooling. It includes a compressor sound blanket for quieter operation and is eligible for rebates not available with non-certified models.
Specs:
- SEER: 17
- Sound: As low as 68 dB
- Type: Single-stage
- ENERGY STAR®: Yes
- Tier: Mid
- Best for: Homeowners in drier regions who want solid efficiency, rebate eligibility, and quiet performance without the higher cost of premium models.
Carrier A/C Model Overview
Comfort™ 16 Series (24ABC6)
Full Review: Comfort™ 16 Series Air Conditioner 24ABC6
As Carrier’s only ENERGY STAR®-certified economy model, the Comfort™ 16 is a budget-friendly choice for homeowners who want lower energy bills without sacrificing reliability. Its single-stage operation provides consistent cooling but lacks the humidity control of two-stage or variable-speed systems.
Specs:
- SEER: 17
- Sound: As low as 76 dB
- Type: Single-stage
- ENERGY STAR®: Yes
- Tier: Economy
- Best for: Budget-conscious Canadians who want an affordable Carrier unit that still delivers efficiency and quieter operation compared to older A/C systems.
Comfort™ 13 Series (24ABB3)
Full Review: Comfort™ 13 Series Air Conditioner 24ABB3
The Comfort™ 13 is Carrier’s most basic model. With a SEER rating of 13 and no ENERGY STAR certification, it’s affordable up front but won’t qualify for rebates or provide significant long-term savings.
Specs:
- SEER: 13
- Sound: As low as 73 dB
- Type: Single-stage
- ENERGY STAR®: No
- Tier: Economy
- Best for: Homeowners in mild or dry climates with modest cooling needs, where humidity control and top efficiency aren’t a priority.
Recently Discontinued Carrier Models
Although these units are no longer in production, they may still be available through local HVAC dealers.
- Infinity® 21 Series (24ANB1)
- SEER: 19 | Sound: As low as 65 dB | Type: Two-stage | ENERGY STAR®: Yes | Tier: Premium
- Best for: Homeowners wanting a quiet, efficient premium model without paying for the top-tier luxury unit.
- Infinity® 17 Series (24ANB7)
- SEER: 17 | Sound: As low as 70 dB | Type: Two-stage | ENERGY STAR®: Yes | Tier: Premium
- Best for: Buyers looking for a balance between efficiency, performance, and cost.
- Infinity® 17 Series Coastal (24ANB7C)**
- SEER: 17 | Sound: As low as 67 dB | Type: Two-stage | ENERGY STAR®: Yes | Tier: Premium
- Best for: Coastal homeowners who need a corrosion-resistant unit built for salty air, with quiet and efficient performance.
- Infinity® 16 Series (24ANB6)
- SEER: 17 | Sound: As low as 66 dB | Type: Single-stage | ENERGY STAR®: Yes | Tier: Premium
- Best for: Dry climate homeowners wanting premium build quality, quiet operation, and solid efficiency.
- Performance™ 13 Series (24ACB3)
- SEER: 13 | Sound: As low as 74 dB | Type: Single-stage | ENERGY STAR®: No | Tier: Mid
- Best for: Value-focused buyers in mild regions who don’t need advanced efficiency or humidity control.
Carrier’s Quietest A/C Units
Older A/Cs tend to be louder, but Carrier has made significant strides in reducing noise. Many models include a compressor sound blanket, but the premium Silencer System II™ design provides the most impressive noise reduction.
- Infinity® 26 (24VNA6): As low as 51 dB
- Infinity® 19VS (24VNA9): As low as 56 dB
Both are among the quietest air conditioners on the market. For comparison, normal conversation is around 60 dB.
Exclusive Carrier Features
Greenspeed® Intelligence
- What Carrier says: “Cruise control for comfort” with steady temperatures and superior humidity control.
- What it really means: A variable-speed compressor paired with the Infinity® System Control smart thermostat.
- Reality check: Other brands like York, Bryant, Armstrong, and Daikin offer similar setups. Still, variable-speed systems combined with smart thermostats are excellent for energy savings, consistent comfort, and humidity management.
Silencer System II™ Design
- What Carrier says: Technology for quiet operation by maximizing airflow and minimizing vibrations.
- What it really means: Special fan blades, motor design, compressor plate, and sound-dampening components.
- Reality check: Only available on Infinity models, and it works—Carrier’s Infinity® 26 is the quietest A/C in its class.
WeatherArmor™ Protection
- What Carrier says: Strong protection against weather damage, dents, and rust.
- What it really means: A galvanized steel cabinet, coil guard, and powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance.
- Reality check: While effective, similar protective features exist across other brands like Trane, Lennox, Daikin, and Bryant.
Analysis of Carrier’s Warranty
Standard Warranty Coverage
Carrier provides a 10-year parts warranty for nearly all of their air conditioner models. This covers key components such as the compressor, condenser, and other major parts.
The exception is their flagship Infinity® 26 (24VNA6). In addition to the 10-year parts warranty, this model includes a 10-year unit replacement warranty. If the compressor fails within that period, Carrier will replace the entire air conditioner, not just the part.
Registration Requirements
To receive the full 10-year coverage, you must register your unit within 90 days of installation. Failing to register reduces the warranty to just five years.
Conditions and Limitations
Carrier’s warranty comes with a few important requirements:
- Installation must be performed by a licensed HVAC contractor.
- The unit must be maintained and serviced according to the owner’s manual.
Failure to meet these conditions can void your coverage.
How Carrier Compares to Other Brands
For a premium-priced brand, Carrier’s warranty is average within the industry. A 10-year parts warranty (or five years if unregistered) is considered standard. Some competitors, however, go further:
- Goodman & York: Lifetime compressor warranties on select models
- Trane & American Standard: 12-year compressor warranties
- Daikin: 12-year parts warranty including the compressor
- Amana, KeepRite, Luxaire, Goodman, Daikin & Rheem: Extended unit replacement warranties ranging from 10 years to lifetime coverage
Is a Carrier Air Conditioner Right for You?
Do You Have the Budget?
Before buying a Carrier air conditioner, the first question to ask is: “Can I afford it?”
Carrier units typically come at a higher price point than many competitor models—even their entry-level options. If you’re considering advanced technology, like two-stage or variable-speed compressors, those are only available in the top-tier Infinity® Series, which commands a premium cost.
If your budget is tight, there are other options. The same parent company that makes Carrier also produces more affordable, high-quality brands like Bryant, KeepRite, and Tempstar, which deliver reliable performance without the prestige price tag.
Will You Be in the Home Long Enough?
Another consideration is how long you plan to stay in your current home. Carrier systems are an investment designed for long-term comfort and savings. If you expect to move within a few years, you may not have enough time to truly benefit from the higher upfront cost.
Does Carrier Match Your Efficiency Goals?
Energy efficiency is another key factor. Around half of Carrier’s models fall within the ideal SEER range for Canada (16 to 18 SEER) and are ENERGY STAR® certified, making them potentially eligible for rebates.
If you need a lower or higher SEER rating, Carrier does offer alternatives, but it’s important to ensure the efficiency aligns with your climate and energy-saving goals.
Do the Features Meet Your Expectations?
Carrier air conditioners are known for their durability, strong design, and overall reliability. However, they don’t always include some of the advanced features offered by competitors.
- Goodman, Amana, and Rheem: Offer self-diagnostic systems that simplify maintenance and repairs.
- Luxaire and Ruud: Use design features that make installation and servicing faster, potentially lowering labour costs.
- Trane: Has communicating technology that connects the system with the thermostat to optimize comfort and efficiency.
When it comes to noise, Carrier Infinity® models are impressively quiet, but other brands also offer specialized noise-reduction features at a lower cost.
How Important Is Warranty Coverage to You?
Carrier’s warranty coverage is fairly standard: most models come with a 10-year parts warranty (with registration). While solid, this doesn’t set them apart.
If warranty protection is a priority, you may want to look at brands like Goodman, Amana, or Daikin, which offer more extensive coverage on compressors or unit replacement. Still, remember that all warranties require professional installation and regular maintenance to remain valid.
Why the Contractor Matters as Much as the Brand
Finally, no matter what brand you choose, the contractor who installs your air conditioner plays a crucial role in your comfort and long-term satisfaction.
A qualified contractor will:
- Help you choose the right model and size for your home.
- Install the system properly to maximize efficiency and avoid voiding the warranty.
- Provide ongoing maintenance and service when needed.
In short, the right installer can make as much difference as the brand itself.
Carrier Thermostats, Add-Ons, and Extras
Thermostats
Infinity® System Control
Carrier’s Infinity® System Control is their flagship smart thermostat. It’s Wi-Fi enabled, fully programmable, and allows you to manage not just temperature but also humidity, ventilation, and airflow. With mobile app connectivity, you can make adjustments anytime, anywhere.
Smart thermostats like this can help reduce both heating and cooling costs, making them a strong option for homeowners who want to maximize efficiency. However, this thermostat is only compatible with Carrier’s Infinity systems.
👉 If you don’t own Infinity equipment, you may find more flexible options in ecobee or Google Nest, which work with a wider variety of HVAC systems.
Comfort Series Three-Zone System
Designed for homes with zoned heating and cooling, this thermostat lets you manage different areas of the home independently. It’s compatible with Carrier Comfort and Performance series products but not with Infinity systems.
Performance Series Programmable Thermostats
These programmable thermostats don’t have Wi-Fi, but they still go beyond basic controls. You can set schedules and adjust temperature, humidity, airflow, and ventilation, making them more advanced than traditional models. They’re also compatible with Carrier’s Comfort and Performance series.
Comfort™ Series Thermostats
Carrier’s most basic line includes traditional non-programmable thermostats and simple programmable models. They provide straightforward control but lack smart features or advanced integrations.
Indoor Air Quality Add-Ons
Infinity® and Return Air Purifiers
Carrier’s premium purifiers remove up to 99% of certain pathogens (like bacteria and viruses) and 95% of particles as small as 1–3 microns. Ideal for:
- Pet owners
- Allergy sufferers
- Families with asthma or respiratory issues
- Homes in dusty or rural areas
Comfort™ EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter
A more budget-friendly option for whole-home filtration. It captures about 63% of particles, but unlike the Infinity purifier, it doesn’t neutralize pathogens. A good fit for households with pets or mild allergies.
Heat & Energy Recovery Ventilators
- Performance Series HRVs: Best for cooler climates with low humidity. They exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering heat.
- Performance & Comfort Series ERVs: Similar to HRVs but also retain some moisture, making them better suited to warmer, drier climates.
Both systems improve air circulation, reduce strain on your HVAC system, and help lower energy bills.
Ultraviolet Germicidal UV Lights
Available in single or double bulb designs, these UV lights are installed on your indoor coil. They help prevent mold and bacteria buildup, improving air quality and system efficiency—ideal for homeowners with health or allergy concerns.
Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers
- Performance Series Humidifiers:
- Steam Humidifier: Best for large homes or very dry climates
- Fan-Powered Humidifier: Great for homes using heat pumps
- Bypass Humidifier: Best for small to mid-sized spaces
- Performance™ Whole-Home Dehumidifier:
Available in two sizes, this unit removes excess humidity in damp climates, reduces cooling costs, and helps prevent mold and moisture problems.
About Carrier
Founded in 1902 by Willis Carrier, the company has built a legacy of innovation, reliability, and energy efficiency. Carrier continues to integrate eco-friendly initiatives into its products, aiming to deliver comfort while reducing environmental impact.
Want to explore your options? Request a free, no-obligation quote from a local Carrier representative today.
Carrier FAQs
How long will my Carrier A/C last?
Most Carrier units last 10–15 years, backed by a 10-year warranty. With proper installation, maintenance, and care, premium Infinity models can last well beyond 15 years.
Is Carrier worth the cost?
Carrier air conditioners are among the most expensive on the market. Here’s why:
- Quality: Built with durable components and smart designs, they’re made to last.
- Brand reputation: Part of the cost comes from the prestige of the Carrier name—much like paying extra for brand-name shoes compared to generics.
Where can I buy a Carrier A/C?
Carrier is widely available across Canada. Most HVAC dealers carry their systems, and you can also find certified local installers through Carrier’s contractor network.
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