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May 19, 2025 | Michael Jestadt

Best Air Conditioner Brands in Concord, CA

Most homeowners and HVAC experts consider that the quality of air conditioners matters more than the brand. However, some brands are the most reliable of all the brands in the market. Concord’s highly rated and most reliable HVAC brands include Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Daikin, American Standard, Goodman, and Rheem. These brands are often considered for their quality, efficiency, and reliability. If you are choosing an air conditioner, it is also important to consider the quality of the installation, which affects the system’s performance. In this article, we will look into the best air conditioner brands in Concord, CA. Let’s get started!

What Makes a Good Air Conditioner Brand?

When discussing choosing an HVAC system, most people think of reliability and energy efficiency as the metrics for good AC brands. But how do you consider those metrics as a homeowner looking for something you can count on?

A few things can be understood if you consult a local HVAC contractor.

• Industry awards and recognition
• Reliability ratings
• Availability of Spares
• Type of warranty and its length

Most people do not know about spare parts, availability, and workings. This can affect the repair cost and duration. So, talk to your HVAC experts about this and the warranty. A standard warranty is 10 years, but it may be more or less for some brands. Make sure that your air conditioner has enough warranty so that you can claim in case of any breakdowns or repairs.

Top Air Conditioner Brands in Concord, CA:

1. Carrier

Carrier is considered one of the most reliable and has a proven record among HVAC brands on the market. It is known as the inventor of modern air conditioning and is known for its durability, performance, and innovation. If you’re a homeowner in Concord, CA, looking for a dependable system that works, Carrier can be your choice. Carrier has a good balance between energy efficiency and long-term reliability. It has options for budget-friendly comfort series and high-end Infinity systems.

Quality:

• Life Expectancy: About 15 to 20 years
• Parts Warranty: 5 to 10 years
• Compressor Warranty: Limited warranty of 10 years
• Need for Future Repairs: Low to Moderate

Energy Efficiency

• SEER2 Rating: 13.8 to 24
• Gas Furnace Efficiency: 80% to 98.5% AFUE

Pricing:

• Complete System: $6,200 – $20,000
• Outdoor AC Unit: $4,000 – $11,000
• Indoor Furnace: $3,500 – $9,500

2. Lennox

Lennox offers the most premium HVAC choices. Its units often have the highest SEER2 ratings, which helps reduce energy bills in Concord, CA. Lennox says improvements have been made recently with the newer models. It also owns some affordable brands like Armstrong Air, Concord, Ducane, and Aire-Flo. These brands give homeowners more options depending on their budget, but the quality and features can be different from those of Lennox.

Quality:

• Life Expectancy: ~15 years
• Parts Warranty: 5 to 10 years
• Compressor Warranty: 5 to 10 years
• Need for Future Repairs: High

Energy Efficiency:

• SEER2 Rating: 14.3 to 25.8
• Gas Furnace Efficiency: 80% to 95% AFUE

Pricing:

• Complete System: $6,100 – $24,500
• Outdoor AC Unit: $3,900 – $12,500
• Indoor Furnace: $3,400 – $10,500

3. Trane

Trane is one of the trustworthy HVAC brands for homeowners and contractors. It is known for its solid engineering and durability. If you’re in Concord, CA, and want an air conditioner that can handle the summer heat year after year, Trane is definitely a smart option. Trane has its own in-house manufacturing. They manufacture almost all of their components, while most of the brands outsource. They may not have the highest SEER ratings, but their reliability is the brand’s USP.

Quality:

• Life Expectancy: About 15 to 20 years
• Parts Warranty: Registered warranty of 10 years
• Compressor Warranty: 10 to 12 years
• Need for Future Repairs: Low

Energy Efficiency

• SEER2 Rating: 14.8 to 22
• Gas Furnace Efficiency: 80% to 97.3% AFUE

Pricing:

• Complete System: $6,500 – $21,000
• Outdoor AC Unit: $4,200 – $11,500
• Indoor Furnace: $3,700 – $10,000

4. Daikin

Daikin is a major player in the global HVAC sector. It is the largest HVAC manufacturer in the world with interesting innovations. Daikin stands out for its inverter technology, energy efficiency, and variable-speed compressors for smooth working. Daikin owns two popular U.S. brands: Goodman and Amana, which offer affordable options.

Quality:

• Life Expectancy: About 15 to 18 years
• Parts Warranty: Registered warranty of 12 years
• Compressor Warranty: 12 years
• Need for Future Repairs: Moderate

Energy Efficiency:

• SEER2 Rating: 14.3 to 22.5
• Gas Furnace Efficiency: 80% to 98% AFUE

Pricing:

• Complete System: $6,000 – $20,000
• Outdoor AC Unit: $4,000 – $10,500
• Indoor Furnace: $3,500 – $9,000

5. American Standard

American Standard and Trane are owned by the same company. Although their branding and prices differ, they mostly share the same internal components. American Standard has more affordable units than Trane, but the same performance and reliability. Their systems are durable, quiet, and easy to maintain. If you are a homeowner looking for a luxury AC unit for your home without spending that extra dollar, then American Standard is the best option for you.

Quality:

• Life Expectancy: Up to 15 to 20 years
• Parts Warranty: Registered warranty of 10 years
• Compressor Warranty: 10 to 12 years
• Need for Future Repairs: Low

Energy Efficiency:

• SEER2 Rating: 14.8 to 21.5
• Gas Furnace Efficiency: 80% to 97.3% AFUE

Pricing:

• Complete System: $6,000 – $18,500
• Outdoor AC Unit: $3,900 – $10,000
• Indoor Furnace: $3,200 – $9,000

6. Goodman

Goodman is a popular choice for homeowners who want a solid HVAC system without breaking the bank. Despite the lower price tag and the best warranties in the industry, it’s one of the most budget-friendly brands. Daikin owns it and derives tech and resources from its parent company. While it is not known for its advanced features and higher SEER ratings, it is known for its seamless installation and service.

Quality:

• Life Expectancy: About 12 to 15 years
• Parts Warranty: Registered warranty of 10 years
• Compressor Warranty: 10 years, and some units offer lifetime
• Need for Future Repairs: Moderate to High

Energy Efficiency:

• SEER2 Rating: 13.8 to 17.5
• Gas Furnace Efficiency: 80% to 98% AFUE

Pricing:

• Complete System: $5,200 – $14,500
• Outdoor AC Unit: $3,200 – $7,500
• Indoor Furnace: $2,800 – $6,500

7. Rheem

Rheem is a solid mid-tier HVAC brand with a great cost, performance, and features balance. In recent years, the company has improved its product line and is known for its efficiency and well-built units. Most of their units come with modern features like variable-speed motors and smart thermostat compatibility with a reasonable price tag. Compared to older models, Rheem has improved its quality and reliability in newer models.

Quality:

• Life Expectancy: Up to 15 to 18 years
• Parts Warranty: Registered warranty of 10 years
• Compressor Warranty: 10 years
• Need for Future Repairs: Moderate

Energy Efficiency:

• SEER2 Rating: 14.3 to 20.5
• Gas Furnace Efficiency: 80% to 98% AFUE

Pricing:

• Complete System: $5,800 – $17,500
• Outdoor AC Unit: $3,600 – $9,500
• Indoor Furnace: $3,000 – $8,500

Important Considerations While Choosing an Air Conditioner Brand

• Installation Quality: The brand matters, but how well the air conditioner is installed is even more important for its performance and durability.
• SEER Rating: SEER ratings indicate energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs. So, choose an air conditioner with high SEER ratings.
• Warranty: A good warranty can help you feel more at ease and protect the money you spent on your AC.
• Local HVAC Contractors: In Concord, trusted HVAC contractors can offer helpful advice and ensure your system is installed correctly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right air conditioner is about more than just picking a brand. It’s about ensuring proper installation, with a good warranty, and that it suits your home needs. Top brands like Carrier, Lennox, Trane, and others in Concord offer great performance, but you must get the most out of it with a trusted HVAC contractor. If you want to upgrade or install a new AC unit, we are here for you! At Smart Heating and Air Conditioning, we have an experienced team that can guide you through the options and install the right one correctly. Contact us for more details and financing options.