How to use this 2025 central AC comparison
This guide translates spec sheets into plain English so you can match a system to your home and budget. SEER2 is today’s efficiency yardstick. Higher is better, but only if your ducts, line set, and coil are sized right. Variable-speed/inverter systems ramp up and down smoothly: better comfort, lower energy use, and quieter operation.
Don’t reuse a dirty or undersized line set. A new prevents contaminants and restrictions that can kill a new compressor. If you’re comparing R-32 options, see our R-32 condensers.
Lennox SL28XCV Efficiency Champion (Up to 28.0 SEER2)
If you want the absolute lowest cooling bill, this is the one. The SL28XCV’s variable-capacity compressor fine-tunes output to hold temperature within about 0.5°F and wrings out more humidity than single-stage units. Expect whisper-quiet operation around 56 dB and “set-and-forget” comfort when paired with a smart thermostat. In hot, humid regions, the extra moisture removal keeps rooms comfortable at a slightly higher setpoint—saving even more.
Tech insight: Ultra-high SEER2 units shine when ducts are sealed and static pressure is controlled. Have your installer measure external static and correct restrictions (returns, filters, coil face area) before startup. Pair with a matched indoor coil/handler from our AC & coil selections to preserve warranty and performance.
Carrier Infinity 26 (26VNA1) Smart Integration Leader
If you love app control and diagnostics, the Infinity 26 with Greenspeed is built for you. It adapts on the fly to indoor and outdoor conditions, hits up to 21 SEER2, and can run as low as ~51 dB. With the Infinity control, you get alerts, remote tweaks, and self-diagnostics handy for catching small issues before they become big ones.
Tech insight: Communicating systems do best with the matched communicating thermostat and indoor unit. If you’re upgrading the outdoor side first, plan the indoor change too. Consider surge protection and a clean, dedicated circuit smart boards don’t like voltage spikes. Need accessories like pads, disconnects, or condensate pumps? Check our Accessories.
Trane XV20i TruComfort Durability Standard
The XV20i’s reputation is simple: built like a tank. Trane’s Spine Fin all-aluminum coil sheds heat efficiently and resists corrosion, and the TruComfort inverter makes tiny capacity moves to keep temps steady (±0.5°F). At up to 21.5 SEER2 with 750 speed stages, it’s smooth, quiet, and proven in tough climates.
Tech insight: Reliability isn’t just the badge it’s the install. Make sure the refrigerant charge is weighed in and verified, airflow is set to spec (CFM per ton), and the condensate plan is bulletproof. We also recommend a dedicated surge protector and a high-quality filter (avoid restrictive high-MERV unless ducts are sized for it). Want payment flexibility? See HVAC Financing.
Daikin DX20VC Advanced Technology Value
The DX20VC brings premium inverter performance at a friendlier price, reaching up to 24.5 SEER. Daikin’s variable-speed compressor technology is used worldwide, and the unit monitors itself for trouble spots. It’s quiet (down to ~58 dBA), with solid steel construction and a strong 12-year unit replacement/parts warranty.
Real-world fit: Great for hot regions where high efficiency actually pays back. If your current ducts are borderline, this model’s long, lower-speed cycles help with humidity even when you can’t replace all the ductwork today. Round it out with a matched air handler, and ask about R-32 bundles if you’re planning ahead for refrigerant transitions.
Rheem Prestige RP20 Smart Controls Specialist
Rheem’s EcoNet platform gives you robust monitoring, alerts, and remote control—handy if you like data or travel often. With a variable-speed Copeland Scroll compressor, the RP20 targets precise temps and humidity, and it keeps cooling up to 107°F ambient. Noise is tamed with enhanced mufflers and vibration control.
Tech insight: If you’ve had nuisance trips or water around the furnace, pair EcoNet with float switches and a condensate safety plan. Use our Accessories for the small parts that prevent big headaches (condensate pumps, pan switches, overflow alarms).
Bryant Evolution 280ANV Extreme Weather Performance
Live where summers roast and shoulder seasons still need heat? The 280ANV is a variable-speed inverter performer with excellent cooling (up to ~20.5 SEER) and outstanding heating efficiency (13 HSPF) when matched correctly. The Perfect Humidity feature excels at moisture control, and the AeroQuiet System II keeps sound down to about 56 dB.
Pro move: In mixed climates, consider a dual-fuel setup to blend heat pump efficiency with a gas furnace’s punch on the coldest nights. Browse R-32 heat pump systems.
American Standard 4A7V8 Platinum 18 Balanced Performance
Not everybody needs bleeding-edge features. The Platinum 18 offers multi-stage cooling with about 18 SEER performance, a sound blanket for quieter operation, and proven scroll-compressor durability. It’s a nice middle path: better comfort than single-stage without the price of a flagship inverter.
Installer’s note: Multi-stage systems still need proper airflow. Have your tech verify CFM with static pressure readings and set blower profiles accordingly. If your indoor unit is older, a matched air handler is often the smartest reliability upgrade you can make besides the condenser itself.
Goodman GSZC20 Side Discharge Space-Saving Innovation
Tiny side yard? Strict HOA clearances? This side-discharge inverter model is about 40% smaller and 53% lighter than many traditional units and can sit with as little as 4 inches of rear clearance. You still get variable-speed efficiency (up to ~17.2 SEER2), quiet operation (down to ~56 dBA, with Quiet Mode ~45 dBA), and cooling up to 115°F ambient.
Field tip: Side-discharge units throw air sideways, so think about fence slats, shrubs, and service access when planning the pad. They’re great swaps for townhomes and narrow setbacks. If your layout truly has no outdoor space, review indoor options like through-the-wall units.
York YXV Affinity Series Reliable Value Leader
The YXV brings variable-capacity efficiency (up to ~21 SEER) with QuietDrive sound control and smart features like Climate Set fine-tuning. York’s Charge Assurance helps techs nail the setup, and the lifetime compressor warranty on Affinity models is a strong value play.
Tech insight: Great installs start with airflow and charge, but don’t forget the thermostat strategy. Variable systems like longer, gentle cycles set your schedules for modest setbacks rather than big swings. If you’re price-matching quotes, read our Lowest Price Guarantee.
Carrier Performance 24SPA5 Budget-Efficient & R-32 Ready
Want solid, dependable cooling without the top-shelf price? The 24SPA5 hits ~16.5 SEER with a proven scroll compressor and ENERGY STAR credentials. The big story is R-32 compatibility lower GWP and better efficiency potential vs. R-410A so you’re positioned well for the refrigerant shift.
Keep ducts sealed, filters clean, and the outdoor coil washed each spring. For apartments or additions without ducts, compare ductless mini-splits.
Quick decision guide: match the system to your priorities
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Max efficiency: Lennox SL28XCV
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Smart home & monitoring: Carrier Infinity 26, Rheem RP20
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Rock-solid durability: Trane XV20i
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Small footprint: Goodman GSZC20 Side Discharge
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Extreme weather: Bryant Evolution 280ANV
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Best value per dollar: Daikin DX20VC
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Budget starter that’s future-ready: Carrier 24SPA5 (R-32 compatible)
Need a second opinion on sizing or ductwork? Start at our Design Center, or skim real-world tips on our HVAC Tips blog.
FAQs
How do I pick the right tonnage?
Don’t guess from square footage alone. Get a Manual J load calc (windows, insulation, orientation, duct location). Start with our Sizing Guide.
SEER vs. SEER2 what’s the difference?
SEER2 is the newer, tougher test. Comparing old SEER to SEER2 isn’t apples to apples; expect SEER2 numbers to read a bit lower for the same system. Use SEER2 for 2025 decisions.
Do I need variable-speed?
If you care about quiet, humidity control, and bill savings, yes. Variable systems run longer at low speed, which feels steadier and drier. If the budget is tight, a well-installed two-stage or efficient single-stage still works.
Will my old thermostat work?
Maybe. Communicating systems (like Carrier Infinity) need their matched controls. Ask before buying. When in doubt, plan to upgrade the thermostat with the system.
Can I keep my ducts and line set?
Only if they’re clean, sized right, and in good shape. Undersized returns and gunked-up line sets kill efficiency and compressors. New line sets are cheap insurance.
Is R-32 safe and worth it?
R-32 has a lower global warming potential and strong efficiency potential. It’s mildly flammable, but installed correctly with listed components, it’s approved and widely used. Explore our R-32 options.
What should I budget beyond equipment?
Pad, disconnect, whip, drain upgrades, possible electrical work, and permits. Don’t skip accessories like float switches or surge protectors—small cost, big protection. See Accessories.
