How much does a Carrier air conditioner cost?
A Carrier air conditioner costs $3,000 to $15,000 installed, depending on the size, features, and efficiency. The cost of a 3-ton Carrier AC unit is $5,000 to $6,000 with installation, while a large 5-ton AC unit with a high SEER rating costs $7,500 to $15,000+ total installed.
Carrier AC unit cost by size | Unit size | Average installed cost | Capacity | Home size (square feet)* |
|---|
| 1.5 ton | $3,000 – $5,000 | 18,000 BTU | 600 – 900 |
| 2 ton | $3,500 – $5,300 | 24,000 BTU | 900 – 1,200 |
| 2.5 ton | $4,000 – $5,500 | 30,000 BTU | 1,200 – 1,500 |
| 3 ton | $5,000 – $6,000 | 36,000 BTU | 1,500 – 1,800 |
| 3.5 ton | $5,500 – $7,000 | 42,000 BTU | 1,800 – 2,100 |
| 4 ton | $6,000 – $9,000 | 48,000 BTU | 2,100 – 2,400 |
| 5 ton | $7,500 – $15,000+ | 60,000 BTU | 2,400 – 3,000 |
*Approximate size only. Hire a licensed installer to calculate the ideal AC size for your home.
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Carrier air conditioner cost by series
Carrier offers three lines of air conditioners to fit various budgets and needs. The Comfort series is the most budget-friendly but the least energy efficient, while the Infinity System has the highest price but also the highest efficiency and is 50% quieter than other models.
Carrier air conditioner prices by series | Series | Average installed cost | Compressor options | SEER2 ratings |
|---|
| Comfort series | $3,000 – $8,000 | Single-stage | Up to 16.5 |
| Performance series | $5,000 – $10,000 | Single-stage and two-stage | 16.5 – 19.0 |
| Infinity System | $8,000 – $15,000+ | Variable-speed | 19.0 – 24.0 |
Carrier AC unit cost by SEER rating
Along with ton size, the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings impact the air conditioner cost. These ratings gauge the energy use and cooling efficiency of an air conditioner, with a higher SEER indicating better cooling performance, reduced energy consumption, and lower energy bills.
Carrier AC unit cost by SEER rating SEER2 rating*
(2023 onwards) | Average installed cost | Energy efficiency |
|---|
| Up to 16 SEER2 | $3,000 – $8,000 | High efficiency |
| Up to 16.5 SEER2 | $3,800 – $9,700 | High efficiency |
| Up to 19 SEER2 | $4,000 – $11,000 | Very high efficiency |
| Up to 24 SEER2 | $6,000 – $15,000+ | Maximum efficiency |
* The actual SEER2 rating for a particular unit may vary depending on the model and testing conditions.
The Department of Energy updated SEER ratings in 2023, with the updated SEER2 ratings now appearing on air conditioner units. These new ratings reflect real-world testing methods for better accuracy, especially in extreme climates.
Carrier air conditioner cost by type
Carrier offers a diverse range of air conditioning solutions with installation prices from $2,000 to $45,000, depending on the consumer’s specific cooling needs, preferences, and budget. Unit types include central AC units, ductless mini-splits, and eco-friendly geothermal HVAC systems.
Carrier air conditioner cost by type | Type | Average installed cost | Description |
|---|
| Central AC unit | $3,000 – $15,000 | Whole-house cooling system that works by moving conditioned air through a network of ducts and vents |
| Ductless mini-split cost | $2,000 – $10,500 | Zoned heating and cooling system for individual rooms or zones without the need for ductwork |
| Geothermal HVAC cost | $12,000 – $45,000 | Provides heating and air conditioning using renewable energy from within the earth, via a network of underground pipes |
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Carrier AC unit installation cost factors
- Installer experience: Seasoned and reputable HVAC contractors charge higher labor rates but offer quality workmanship that lasts.
- Installation difficulty: Tight attic or closet space installations may have additional labor costs.
- Extras & add-ons: Installations that include extra components, such as new thermostats, vents, or electrical wiring have increased costs.
- Ductwork condition: Homes with existing ductwork in good condition will incur fewer expenses compared to those requiring costly repairs or modifications. Replacing ductwork costs$25 to $55 per linear foot for the materials and labor.
- Permits & inspections: Permit and inspection costs range from $100 to $250 for a typical AC replacement, while these fees can exceed $1,500 when the job involves new ductwork installation.
- Warranty & maintenance plans: Adding an extended warranty or maintenance plan increases the initial cost but provides long-term advantages.
Carrier prices vs. other air conditioner brands
Installing a central air conditioner costs $3,000 to $8,500, depending on factors like brand, size, and efficiency. Carrier air conditioner prices fall above that range for many of their products as they are among the best rated AC brands, known for their reliability and efficiency.
Carrier air conditioner prices vs. other brands | Brand | Average installed cost | SEER2 rating |
|---|
| Carrier air conditioner | $3,000 – $15,000 | Up to 24.0 |
| Amana air conditioner cost | $2,800 – $7,500 | Up to 22.5 |
| American Standard air conditioner cost | $3,500 – $8,000 | Up to 21.5 |
| Bryant air conditioner cost | $2,300 – $7,000 | Up to 24.0 |
| Goodman air conditioner cost | $3,200 – $6,500 | Up to 24.5 |
| Heil air conditioner cost | $3,000 – $9,000+ | Up to 19.0 |
| Lennox AC unit | $3,500 – $10,000 | Up to 25.8 |
| Rheem air conditioner cost | $3,000 – $8,500 | Up to 20.5 |
| Ruud air conditioner cost | $3,000 – $8,500 | Up to 20.5 |
| Trane air conditioner cost | $5,000 – $25,000 | Up to 21.5 |
| York air conditioner cost | $3,400 – $10,500 | Up to 20.0 |
How to save money on a Carrier air conditioning system
A new air conditioning system is a major investment. Consider these cost-saving suggestions:
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- Size matters: Choose the properly sized unit for your home to prevent energy waste from an oversized or undersized model.
- Go for an energy-efficient model: Invest in a high-efficiency model with a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating to reduce electricity usage and save on utility bills. Consider a multi-stage compressor for enhanced durability and less wear.
- Look for savings: Research available rebates, incentives, or tax credits from utility companies, government agencies, or the Energy Star rebate finder.
- Buy a SMART thermostat: A programmable smart thermostat costs$160 to $450 installed and lets you optimize the temperature settings based on your schedule, minimizing wasted energy.
- Be smart about your settings: Set your thermostat to 78°F when home, and higher when away, to reduce energy consumption. Remember each degree below 78°F increases energy use by 8%.
- Pick your season: Install a Carrier AC system during the offseason when labor costs are lower due to decreased demand.
- Bundle your purchase with heating: Ask your dealer about package deals on AC units and Carrier furnaces.
Carrier air conditioner FAQs
Is Carrier a good air conditioner brand?
Carrier is an industry leader in air conditioners with a long history of producing high-quality and dependable air conditioners. They offer a wide range of units with high SEER ratings, producing one of the most efficient units on the market today.
Where are Carrier air conditioners made?
The majority of Carrier air conditioners are manufactured in Collierville, Tennessee, and Indianapolis, Indiana. However, Carrier operates 67 manufacturing facilities on six continents.
How long do Carrier air conditioners last?
When properly installed and maintained, a Carrier air conditioner should last 10 to 15+ years.
How long is a Carrier air conditioner warranty?
Carrier warranty lengths vary from 5 to 10 years, depending on the air conditioner series. Infinity and Performance Series air conditioners come with a 10-year parts limited warranty when registered within 90 days of the installation. The comfort series offers a 5- to 10-year parts limited warranty.
Getting estimates from Carrier AC installers
Getting accurate and competitive estimates from AC installers near you will help you make an informed decision about your new cooling system. The following tips can help:
- Start by researching reputable Carrier AC installers in your area.
- Look for companies with positive reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
- Verify they have the proper licensing, certifications, and experience in installing Carrier systems.
- Don't settle for a single estimate. Reach out to multiple Carrier AC installers to compare prices, services, and warranties.
- Provide detailed information about your home, such as its size, insulation, existing ductwork (if any), and any specific requirements you may have.
- Request information on Carrier AC models with different SEER ratings and inquire about their energy efficiency.
- Inquire about the warranty coverage for both the Carrier AC unit and the installation work. Understand the terms and conditions of the warranty to ensure comprehensive coverage.
- Ask about financing options. Some installers may offer financing plans or promotions that can help make the upfront cost more manageable.
- Review the estimates carefully to ensure that all components of the installation, such as labor, materials, permits, and taxes, are clearly outlined.
Questions to ask a Carrier air conditioner installer
A knowledgeable and reliable Carrier AC installer should be willing and able to answer these questions:
- Are you an authorized Carrier dealer?
- How many years of experience do you have in installing Carrier air conditioners?
- Can you furnish references from previous Carrier installations?
- Which Carrier air conditioner models do you recommend for my home?
- What is the SEER rating of the recommended Carrier units?
- Could you present a detailed estimate for the entire installation project?
- What is the warranty coverage for the Carrier air conditioner and the installation work?
- Will you manage the entire installation process, including obtaining necessary permits?
- How long is the anticipated installation timeline, and when can you get started?
- Do you provide maintenance services for the Carrier air conditioner?
- Are there any available rebates or incentives for purchasing a Carrier air conditioner?
- What payment methods do you accept, and what are the common payment terms?
- Will you furnish a written contract outlining all terms and details of the installation?
- How do you address issues with the Carrier air conditioner post-installation?
- Are there any special considerations or recommendations for maintaining the Carrier air conditioner?
How we get this data
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.
