When looking for a reliable and efficient central air conditioner, you should consider what options will best suit your specific needs. The most important factor to consider is the number of British Thermal units, or BTUs, as you must find a unit that measures correctly for your home's square footage. It's essential that the air conditioner not be undersized or oversized, as it won't cool the home correctly. Keep in mind that the compressor is the most expensive part to replace in a central air conditioner, so you should check its warranty; the standard is usually 10 years. It's also smart to look for a unit that offers sound insulation, as compressors can be quite loud. Finally, make sure you find an installation contractor who meets all local licensing requirements and has liability insurance. According to the ConsumerSearch website, QualitySmith and Sears generally have the best prices on air conditioning units. Both companies offer free heating and cooling estimates, as well as same-day service.

The cost of a central air conditioner ranges quite a bit, depending on the level of efficiency, the number of BTUs and the ease of installation. The units typically cost between $1,500 and $6,000, including installation. But if ductwork is needed, you can plan on paying a couple thousand extra for installation. ConsumerSearch lists the best-rated central air conditioning units as the high-efficiency 16 to 23 SEER, the mid-range efficiency 14.5 to 17 SEER, the minimum-efficiency central unit and the mini-split ductless unit. cheap central air conditioning units for saleThe high-efficiency 16 to 23 SEER will cost the most initially but will cut energy costs in the future. window air conditioner unit coverThe mid-range efficiency 14.5 to 17 SEER and minimum-efficiency central unit will cost the least initially but won't save you as much in energy costs. inside wall ac cover

The mini-split ductless air conditioning system is rated best for those with existing ductwork, because it's easiest to install and you can adjust the temperature in each room. Before making a purchase, check for local utility and government rebate offers. Visit the Energy Star website, check off the type of appliance you're interested in, and enter your ZIP code to see whether there are any special rebate offers available. To encourage consumers to purchase energy-efficient products, Energy Star sometimes "sponsors" certain products. If you can get a rebate, this money may end up paying the difference between a SEER model and a lower-efficiency model.Best Central Air Conditioners Under $2,000 for 2016 Here are 5 central air conditioner models with a starting price under $2,000. Not everyone needs a super-efficient, high-performance AC. Those shopping for affordable central air conditioners include: Those who experience moderate summers without extreme heat Those who want to cool space that doesn’t get heavy use such as a vacation home, cottage, guest apartment, workshop, etc.

Those who plan to move in a few years and won’t get good long-term value from a highly efficient but expensive air conditioner Whether you fit any of those categories, we’ve got a list of the units that will reduce your upfront costs and still keep energy costs within reason. That’s why we chose: Single-stage units over two-stage models to cut costs Higher SEER rating where affordable A single-stage air conditioner runs on full capacity all of the time. You might notice slight temperature swings – of perhaps a few degrees – during and between cycles. These are reduced with costlier 2-stage and variable-capacity central air conditioners. When the air conditioner isn’t getting heavy work, the temperature fluctuation doesn’t dramatically affect indoor comfort. Top 5 Central Air Conditioners for Less Than $2,000 You’ll save money and still get Energy Star efficiency levels with these units. The price ranges for each reflect the capacities available from 1.5 or 2.0 tons up to 5.0 tons of cooling capacity.

1. Heil QuietComfort 16 HXA6 Central Air Conditioner Heil is the best-known brand of a group of secondary brands owned by United Technologies which also owns highly rated Carrier and Bryant. In reality, Heil is not far at all behind those two HVAC industry heavyweights. Essentially the same unit is also made under brand names Day & Night, Arcoaire, Tempstar, Keep Rite and Comfortmaker. The warranties are excellent – a 10-year general parts warranty that includes replacing the entire air conditioner unit if the compressor fails in the first 5 years. 10-year warranty + 5-year unit replacement Heil QuietComfort 16 HXA6 price: $1,700-$3,100 2. Maytag M120 Series MSA6BF Central Air Conditioner Maytag makes some of the highest-rated central air conditioners for durability. This one is protected by a 12-year general parts warranty that includes the promise to replace the entire AC if the compressor fails in the first year. This unit is only available up to 4.0 tons.

12-year warranty + 1-year unit replacement Maytag M120 MSA6BF price: $1,200-$2,400 3. Goodman GSX16 & Amana ASX16 Central Air Conditioners Goodman, which owned Amana until both brands were bought by Daikin Global, continues to upgrade its product lines, and these nearly identical models feature improved quality and durability. They are well-built and basic, backed by a 10-year parts warranty. For comparison, Trane and Carrier offer 10-year warranties on their best models. This is not Goodman’s or Amana’s best AC. Amana ASX16 & Goodman GSX16 price: $900-$2,000 4. Trane XB14 Central Air Conditioner This unit has the best SEER rating of the list at 16.5 SEER. It’s backed by a very good warranty, and Trane’s reliability record is one of the industry’s best. Trane XB14 price: $1,500-$2,700 5. Armstrong Air 4SCU14LB & Air Ease 4SCU14LB Central Air Conditioners These twin air conditioners are made by Lennox subsidiary Allied Air. They are solidly built and reliable.