Discover the Top 5 HVAC Brands to Step Up Your Cool Game This Summer

Has the summer heat been getting to you? Maybe it's time to upgrade your AC system. The latest units offer far superior energy efficiency than the ones from just 10 or 15 years ago.

But how do you go about choosing the best unit to meet your needs? Some of the criteria to consider when comparing different makes and models include energy efficiency, how noisy they are, their features, their warranty coverage, and of course, price.

To help you along the way, we have compared five of the top rated models, outlining some of the benefits of each one.

About SEER Ratings

The industry standard for measuring the efficiency of air conditioners is the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). The seer rating of the unit is calculated by measuring the cooling output during a typical season divided by the total energy consumed by the unit during that period. Therefore, the higher the SEER value assigned to an air conditioning unit, the more energy efficient it will be.

Maytag M1200 PSA4BI iQ Drive

This unit is among the best-rated air conditioning systems currently on the market, offering a SEER value of up to 25.5, which could represent as much as 60% energy savings compared to units that are 10 to 15 years old. One of the most attractive features of its iQ drive is that it runs quieter than most units on the market at 59 dBs

At the higher end of the pricing scale, this Maytag unit features all of the bells and whistles you might expect, including a modulating compressor for greater efficiency and consistent indoor temperature, outstanding dehumidification capacity and a 12-year warranty, one of the best on the market.

Lennox Signature XC25

Following close behind the Maytag unit, this Lennox air conditioning system offers similar features and benefits including a 26 SEER rating, ultra-quiet performance also at 59 dB, a modulating compressor for greater efficiency and humidity control plus compatibility with Lennox iComfort technology which allows you to access the thermostat remotely using your phone or tablet.

The Lennox Signature XC25 is also at the higher end of the price scale with a warranty that is slightly shorter than Maytag's at 10 years.

Amana AVXC20

With an excellent SEER rating of up to 24.5, thanks in part to its modulating compressor, this unit delivers outstanding efficiency at a more affordable price. It can be paired with a comfort net system for Wi-Fi access and comes with an outstanding warranty that covers the compressor unit for the entire lifetime +10 years on all other parts.

Carrier Infinity 19 VS

Carrier units have an outstanding reputation for reliability. This model offers a SEER rating of up to 19 and operates very quietly at 56 dBs. It has a five-stage unit that runs at low capacity most of the time for optimal efficiency and quietness, but will kick into higher gear when the outside temperature and humidity spikes.

Within the mid-range of pricing, this Carrier unit comes with an industry-standard 10-year warranty.

Armstrong Pro Series 4SCU20LX

An excellent choice for cost to value comparison, this lower-priced unit delivers a SEER rating of up to 20 and features a modulating compressor. It can be paired with comfort sync technology for Wi-Fi access and comes standard with a 10-year warranty.

All of these models have an excellent reputation for quality and reliability. However, the single most important factor that will ensure dependable comfort with the best possible energy efficiency is having the unit installed by a qualified professional.

It's also important to factor in the size of your Manchester, NH home when choosing the right system for you. For more information and expert advice, call (603) 922-4037 to speak to the pros at Skovron Mechanical Services LLC.