Choosing the Best Air Conditioner for Your Home In 2025

When searching for the best air conditioner for your home, keep these key factors in mind to make an informed decision:

Energy efficiency is a crucial consideration. Look for units with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER2) rating. Higher SEER2 ratings indicate greater energy efficiency, which can lower your energy bills and reduce your environmental footprint.

Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), is essential. Choose an air conditioner with the right cooling capacity for your space. A unit that's too small may not cool effectively, while an oversized unit may cycle frequently, leading to inefficient operation. Learn more about BTU meaning .

Consider noise levels when comparing models. Opt for units with noise-reducing features, such as insulated compressor compartments or variable-speed fans, to ensure a quieter, more comfortable environment. Select Carrier air conditioners have a fully variable-speed compressor with Silencer System II™ components that reduce airflow and vibration provides extremely quiet operation. This air conditioner is among the quietest in the variable-speed outdoor category.¹

Make sure the unit is compatible with your existing thermostat—especially if you use a smart or  programmable thermostat. Some advanced AC systems require specific thermostat technologies, so checking compatibility upfront helps ensure proper performance and avoids installation headaches.

Modern air conditioners with smart home integration enable you to control your system from anywhere using your smartphone or other smart devices. This feature offers convenience and flexibility, allowing you to adjust the temperature, monitor energy usage, and receive maintenance alerts remotely.

Warranty is an important factor when choosing an air conditioner, as it provides peace of mind and protection against unexpected repair costs. A longer, more comprehensive warranty can save you money on repairs or parts replacement if something goes wrong. Additionally, some warranties may cover labor costs, which can be a significant expense. Considering the warranty helps ensure you're investing in a reliable system that offers long-term value. Carrier air conditioners come with a Consumer Choice Warranty  which provides a 10-year parts only limited warranty or a 5-year parts, plus a 3-year labor limited warranty.²

Understanding your local climate helps ensure you select an AC that provides optimal performance and energy efficiency. Your local climate also helps determine whether an air conditioner or heat pump is best suited for your home.

Budget plays a key role in choosing an air conditioner, as it affects both the upfront cost and long-term energy efficiency. While more expensive models often offer better energy efficiency and advanced features, a lower-budget option may require higher ongoing cooling costs. It's important to balance the initial investment with potential savings on cooling bills to find the best value for your needs.

Jennifer Fletcher, owner of Modern Air Solutions in Gurnee, IL said when homeowners are trying to determine the best air conditioner for their home, two big considerations are comfort and energy costs.

“If their cooling bills already feel high, investing in a higher-efficiency unit can make a meaningful difference over time,” Fletcher said. “And if they prefer to keep the house extra cold, a more efficient system is even more important — it can deliver that lower temperature without driving monthly costs through the roof.”

Our system builder allows you to answer a few questions about your home’s existing cooling system and your HVAC system preferences (such as energy savings, sound levels, and humidity control) before providing a potential system match for your home. You can confirm the summary with your local Carrier dealer to confirm the match as well as availability. 

 

By considering these features and using our system builder, you can select the best air conditioner for your home. Carrier offers a variety of air conditioning systems that incorporate these features, ensuring optimal comfort, energy efficiency, and convenience. Our air conditioners are designed to meet high standards of performance and reliability, making them the ideal choice for your residential cooling needs. With innovative technologies and a commitment to quality, we aim to provide the best air conditioning solutions that meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Connect with your local Carrier dealer to determine the best air conditioner for your home. 

 

¹ Depending on model combination. Based on laboratory testing of Carrier’s Infinity® 26 air conditioner models by Carrier engineers in Fall 2019 and AHRI sound level data for competitors’ variable-speed outdoor units, published as of December 2019.

² To the original owner on eligible equipment for eligible residential applications. Warranty period is 5 years if not registered within 90 days. Jurisdictions where warranty benefits cannot be conditioned on registration will automatically receive a 10-year parts limited warranty, which can be changed to the 5-year parts, plus a 3-year labor option on eligible equipment within the first 90 days after installation. The 5-year parts, plus 3-year labor warranty option is available only if the installing dealer/contractor has elected to participate in the Consumer Choice warranty program and has accepted the Consumer Choice dealer terms and conditions.