A central air conditioner is the kind of investment that takes much thought and considerations. Because you’ll need to use your choice for a very long time, being picky becomes a necessity. Thankfully, there are some obvious key points that you can easily keep an eye on even before testing the unit. Some like price is quite obvious, while others like energy efficiency require you do some research. Lucky for you, we’ve done all the research and compiled a list of the best central air conditioners for 2023.
1. Goodman R-410a GSX160361
The central air conditioner may weigh a ton, but there’s no better choice when considering performance and price. It boasts of a 16-SEER energy efficiency, which is one of the highest you can ever get in a central air conditioner. However, it’s 850rpm motor is not ideal for massive apartments.
Features
- Copeland compressor
- 16-SEER
- Steel coil guard
- R410A refrigerant
- 207lbs in weight
Pros
- Compatible with a massive variety of components
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Long-lasting performance
- Can support over 1200-square-feet area
- Quality built-in compressor
Cons
- Not ideal for humid areas
Price: View on Amazon
2. Goodman GSX140301
This model is even cheaper than Goodman’s three-ton machine, but there are quite a few disadvantages to purchasing it. One example is that GSX140301 doesn’t meet California, Nevada, and some other US states guidelines. However, if you don’t live in any restricted state, it becomes an excellent budget choice for you.
Features
- 14-SEER
- R-410A refrigerant pre-charged
- The coil is 2.5 tons
- Ten-year warranty
- Quiet horizontal discharge
Pros
- Easy installation
- High performance
- Ultra-silent while working
- Extremely durable
- Plenty of cooling power
Cons
- The compressor isn’t Copeland
Price: View on Amazon
3. Goodman GSX160301
It’s slightly pricier than GSX140301, but GSX160301 has the advantage of better efficiency and no state restrictions. However, unlike most central air conditioners, the unit doesn’t come packaged with thermostats, line sets, and more. GSX160301 is the ideal choice for cooling below 1500-square-feet of floor space but with better efficiency than GSX140301 offers.
Features
- Ten-year parts and labor warranty
- The coil is 2.5 tons
- 29,000 BTU cooling
- Aluminum fin coil
- R410A refrigerant
- 16-SEER
- 211lbs
Pros
- Under 1500-square-feet coverage
- Durable and sturdy
- Quality components
- Reasonable price
Cons
- No handles
- Warranty coverage isn’t wide enough
Price: View on Amazon
4. Goodman GPC1436H41
The central air conditioner unit has the advantage of more comprehensive packaging than GSX models. It also comes with a smartphone app that allows for easier and more mobile operation. However, GPC1436H41 comes with a massive price-tag that justifies its superb quality.
Features
- Internal valve relief
- R-410A refrigerant
- 36,000 BTU cooling capacity
- 14-SEER rating
- PSC blower
- Horizontal discharge
Pros
- Durable
- Massive cooling area
- Quality customer support
- High efficiency and quiet operation
- Compatible with app control
Cons
- Expensive
- Doesn’t include accessories like line sets
Price: View on Amazon
5. Goodman 14-SEER Split System
It also boasts of a high-efficiency rating as well as 36,000BTU of cooling power, much like GPC1436H41. The central air conditioner is also similarly expensive but offers more accessories than its alternatives.
Features
- DecaBDE-free drain pan
- 14-SEER rating
- Three-ton coil
- Multiposition air handler
- R-410A refrigerant
- SmartFrame cabinet
Pros
- Quality design
- Massive cooling capacity
- Impressive efficiency
- Remarkably quiet
- Ten-year warranty
Cons
- Pricy
- The poor liquid line connector
Price: View on Amazon