Carrier Air Conditioner Prices Guide

Introduction and Carrier Brand History

Carrier is an air conditioner brand with an incredible history. Their founder, Willis Carrier, invented the first modern type of air conditioner way back in 1902. As their website reminds us, this was 10 years before sliced bread was even invented.

In the modern era, Carrier has a parent company; UTC Climate, Controls & Security. Their products are manufactured in the USA and as well as creating air conditioners, Carrier has refrigeration products and specialize in refrigerated transport, too. 

They were one of the first manufacturers to embrace changes regarding the environment, and train their staff based on the LEED examination system to improve their environmental footprint. In doing so they have created some very economical products for use both in the home and commercially.

In terms of air conditioners, Carrier’s brand is split into three different ranges. The “Infinity” range is the best for efficiency and reliability. “Performance” is their premium brand though it doesn’t quite offer the same features and economy as the Infinity range. The “Comfort” range is more basic, though still suitable for both home and business use.

Carrier Pros and Cons

Cost by Model

The table above has not only the Carrier air conditioner price list, but also an estimated Carrier air conditioner installation cost. The estimate has been worked out based on averages for installation around the USA, but there is some room for different quotes. It is best to get a few quotes from local installation companies.

We have calculated the running costs based on 2000 cooling hours within a 2.5-ton AC unit. This also assumes a $0.13/kWh rate being paid for power. The measurement is based around homes which are between 1500 and 2000 sqft.

Ton is not a measurement of weight as you could easily assume, but instead relates to the number of BTUs of heat which the unit is removing per hour. The prices in our table also assume that you don’t need any ductwork done. This is inevitably bound to cost more if it is something you require. Regular ductwork costs between $6.25 and $11.50 per foot and there are some accessories also required. A 2,750 square foot property over two stories will cost around $4,500 for ductwork.

As you can see, the installation of the Infinity model, the Carrier 24VNA0, is likely to be pretty expensive, combined with a relatively high price of the model in the first instance. Though this model does have a 10-year parts warranty and a 3-year labor warranty, it is still a large initial outlay. The running cost is the best of the range but can be beaten by models in other ranges such as the Lennox xc25 which can offer up to 26 SEER, however, a bigger initial outlay to purchase this model can even out the expenses overall.

Cheaper models such as the Carrier 24ABB3**C may cost a little less initially, but running costs may be high, especially if you are in an area where you need to use your AC unit regularly. If you are looking for a budget AC unit, similar models within the Goodman range, such as the Goodman GSX16, are cheaper to purchase and install and also cheaper to run, so could be worth considering.

Model Comparison

This Carrier air conditioner table shows the difference between their price in terms of economy (SEER rating) and also the capacity, compressor type and the sound they produce.

Like many competing brands, the capacities are available between 1.5 and 5 tons. On top of this, you can choose which type of compressor you need. For a more affordable compressor, you can opt for a single-stage model. For more control over the power, you should opt for a two-stage option which can have two different settings (as the name suggests). The very elite products within this range offer a variable setting allowing you to alter the power to the highest level and control the temperature reliably without wasting any power.

One of the most impressive aspects of the range is the dB (decibel) measurement. This shows how loud the outdoor AC unit is. While for some of us this may not be a big issue, a noisy air conditioning unit can add to noise pollution. This sound is measured from the outdoor unit, but if a noisy air conditioner is placed near a window, it can create unwanted noise. This means it is best to install far away from you living room or bedroom windows. Quieter models aren’t such a big concern.

Compressors

Carrier air conditioners all use the very high-quality Copeland Compressor models, which guarantees very good impressive compressors which are reliable and highly rated among HVAC technicians. Copeland compressors are widely used in many different air conditioner brands. They manufacture single-stage, two-stage and variable compressors.

If looked after, a Carrier AC unit can potentially last decades of use before it needs replacing. They are certainly well-made products in terms of how rugged they are.

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