Now that we’re in the scorching summer months, Canadians seek reliable and efficient central air conditioning system installation to beat the heat and stay comfortable indoors. With an array of air conditioner brands in the market, finding the best air conditioner can be a daunting task.
Are you looking for a new air conditioner system? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top air conditioner brands available in Canada, namely Trane, Goodman, Napoleon, Bryant, and RunTru.
We’ll delve into the key determinants that set these brands apart, including energy efficiency, cooling performance, durability, and noise levels, so you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision about the ideal central air conditioning unit for your home and price range.
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Top Air Conditioner Brands
Trane
Trane is renowned worldwide for its high-quality air conditioning systems and innovative technologies. As a trusted brand in Canada, Trane offers an impressive range of central air conditioners known for their exceptional performance and reliability. Trane’s commitment to energy savings is evident in their units’ SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, which exceed industry standards. These units utilize advanced features like variable speed compressors and smart thermostats to optimize efficient cooling performance and reduce energy consumption.
With a focus on durability and longevity, Trane air conditioners are built to withstand harsh Canadian climates, making them an excellent investment for homeowners seeking a long-lasting cooling solution.
Goodman
Goodman is another prominent air conditioning system in Canada, delivering high-quality units at a budget-friendly price range. Despite its affordability, Goodman does not compromise on performance or efficiency. Goodman central AC units boast SEER ratings that meet or exceed government regulations, offering significant energy savings. Homeowners can enjoy quiet and consistent cooling with Goodman’s advanced noise-reduction technology.
Additionally, Goodman prioritizes durability, and their units are built with high-quality components, ensuring reliable operation for years to come. For those seeking an economical yet efficient AC unit, Goodman is a brand worth considering if some other brands are out of your price range.
Napoleon
Napoleon is a Canadian brand known for its commitment to innovation, design, and engineering excellence. Napoleon central air conditioners stand out for their premium features, exceptional cooling performance, and efficiency. With SEER ratings that surpass industry standards, Napoleon’s units offer significant energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Napoleon’s advanced technologies, such as inverter-driven compressors and multi-speed fans, ensure consistent and precise temperature control.
Moreover, Napoleon air conditioners are designed for quiet operation, providing homeowners with a serene indoor environment. With a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, Napoleon is a top choice for those seeking a high-performance central air conditioner.
Bryant
Bryant is a well-established and highly regarded air conditioner brand, known for its cutting-edge technology and reliability. Bryant’s air conditioners feature high SEER ratings, ensuring energy-efficient operation and reduced utility bills. Their Evolution series, in particular, stands out with features like variable speed technology and excellent humidity control, providing optimal indoor comfort. Bryant’s dedication to durability is evident in the construction of their units, ensuring they withstand the test of time.
Homeowners can also appreciate the quiet operation of Bryant AC units, allowing them to enjoy cooling without any disturbances. Bryant’s reputation for quality and performance makes them a top contender for your next air conditioning system.
RunTru
RunTru is an emerging player in the air conditioner market, offering reliable and affordable cooling systems. Manufactured by the Trane brand, the RunTru central air conditioning system combines quality components with a budget-friendly price range, making them an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers. While their SEER ratings may not be as high as some premium brands, RunTru units still provide respectable energy efficiency.
RunTru’s focus on durability ensures their air conditioners deliver dependable performance throughout the summer season. For homeowners looking for a budget-friendly cooling solution without compromising on quality, RunTru presents a viable choice.
Daikin
Daikin, a pioneering brand and one of the world’s largest air conditioning and heating systems manufacturers, has been around for over 90 years. They’re renowned for their ductless air conditioning solutions and have a reputation for excellent support here in Canada.
Daikin’s air conditioners use inverter technology, which adjusts the compressor’s speed to control the refrigerant flow rate, using less energy. This makes their units eco-friendly and energy-efficient with SEER ratings above industry standards. New Daikin AC systems also come with some of the best warranties in Canada.
Daikin ductless air conditioning systems (or mini-split systems), are made up of an outdoor unit with a condenser and compressor and one or more wall-mounted indoor units that have a fan and an evaporator coil. Instead of using ductwork, the individual units are connected by a refrigerant line.
This system is ideal for homes where traditional ducted systems are impractical or unavailable.
Best Air Conditioners In Canada
Trane XV20i Air Conditioner
The XV20i is Trane’s top-of-the-line model. The XV20i is known for its variable speed compressor, which adjusts the operating speed as the outdoor temperature changes, allowing for pinpoint precision when it comes to keeping your house at the perfect temperature (eliminating temperature swings).
A second defining feature is the ComfortLink™ II Wireless Communicating Technology which syncs up the unit’s system components for optimal performance. These two systems make the XV20i Air Conditioner very energy efficient. With a 22 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, it’s one of the best models for lowering utility bills.
The XV20i is also one of the quietest out there with an integrated fan system and compressor sound insulators that significantly cut down on noise.
Goodman GSXC18 Air Conditioner
The Goodman GSXC18 Air Conditioner is another industry favourite. The Copeland UltraTech scroll compressor is designed with a revolutionary two-step capacity that eliminates uneven cooling peaks and valleys and provides improved temperature and humidity control.
Also making this model a favourite is the revolutionary ComfortBridge, which continuously monitors the unit’s system performance data and automatically makes adjustments to keep your comfort levels exactly how you want them.
For efficiency, the GSXC18 can reach a SEER level of 18 with the right setup — potentially saving hundreds on energy bills. This model is also remarkably quiet at both full- and part-load capacity.
Napoleon 14.3 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner
With a charcoal grey colour and quiet operation, Napoleon’s 14.3 SEER2 Central Air Conditioners might be mistaken for part of your landscaping. The 14.3 SEER2 is engineered to last a long time, with the highest quality filter drier in the industry, swept fan blades, and a permanently-lubricated motor.
Its motor assembly is removable from the top of the unit, while its service valves and refrigerant connections are located outside the cabinet making part changes easy and servicing a snap. It’s also built with a heavy-duty compressor and a corrosion-resistant exterior. This attention to quality and durability saves you from repairs and also maintains its efficiency.
This model is compatible with smart home systems so you can change settings remotely, providing a seamless integration into your lifestyle. As its name suggests, the Napoleon 14.3 SEER2 has a 14.3 SEER rating, making it an energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly option.
Bryant Evolution™ Variable-Speed Air Conditioner 189BNV
The Bryant Evolution™ Variable-Speed Air Conditioner 189BNV is small but powerful. This impressive unit uses a rotary compressor to deliver variable-speed temperature control, making subtle adjustments as outside conditions change to deliver the perfect temperature with higher precision than standard models.
This model also does an exceptional job of lowering humidity, removing 400% more moisture from the air than most single-stage systems. The 189BNV operates very quietly, especially at lower speeds.
The engineered AeroQuiet System reduces sound by optimizing airflow and minimizing vibration. Operating start-up is soft and smooth.
The Wi-Fi-enabled intelligent central control communicates with the different components of an Evolution heating and cooling system, maximizing overall efficiency and reducing energy use.
The 189BNV has a cooling efficiency of up to 19 SEER, making it a solid contender with other top-of-the-line models.
RunTru A4AC4 Air Conditioner
Hot weather is no match for the RunTru A4AC4. The RunTru brand is backed by Trane, guaranteeing that you’re getting a quality and dependable air conditioner. RunTru has done a great job providing a user-friendly experience with this model.
The intuitive interface is exceptionally easy to use. This model also comes equipped with a scroll compressor that maintains consistent cooling even in demanding conditions, making maintaining comfort levels a smooth experience.
The RunTru A4AC4 model has a better-than-average noise rating and will run quietly in the background. It has an energy efficiency rating of 15 SEER. Its compact size also allows it to fit in tighter spaces, making it a favourite for many homeowners.
Daikin NV Series Ductless Air Conditioner Wall Mount
The new Daikin NV Series Ductless AC Wall Mount is a great solution for homes where ducted systems aren’t an option or are too expensive. They’re perfect for installing in master bedrooms and living rooms, rooms with poor airflow, renovations, basements, garages, and home add-ons.
Being ductless means this system doesn’t require the complex and sometimes inefficient ductwork that traditional central air systems do. This makes installation much easier and also makes the system less noticeable in your space, as the sleek units can be placed high on the wall where they blend in.
They also operate very quietly. The NV Series provides an improved overall performance compared to previous models. Its air purification system provides cleaner, healthier air for your home.
The built-in inverter technology prevents the common temperature swings that non-inverter systems often experience, especially when outdoor temperatures change quickly. The NV Series has a cooling efficiency rating of up to 19 SEER, helping to lower both your energy footprint and utility bills.
What Determines the Best Air Conditioner Brands?
Energy Efficiency
Efficiency is a critical factor when evaluating the best air conditioner brands. SEER ratings provide an objective measure of a unit’s energy efficiency, with higher energy efficiency ratings indicating better performance.
Top brands like Trane, Napoleon, and Bryant lead the way in this regard, offering units with ratings above 16, surpassing the industry minimum requirement.
Energy-efficient air conditioners (especially those with an Energy Star certification) not only save on energy bills but also contribute to a greener environment by reducing carbon emissions.
Cooling Performance
The primary purpose of an air conditioner is to provide effective cooling, especially during hot Canadian summers. The best air conditioners excel in delivering consistent and powerful cooling performance.
Brands like Trane, Napoleon, and Bryant incorporate advanced technologies like variable-speed compressors, which optimize cooling output based on the required load, providing precise temperature control and even cooling throughout the home.
How Long the AC Lasts
Air conditioner longevity are crucial factors when investing in central air conditioning systems.
The best brands prioritize robust construction and high-quality components to ensure their units withstand the rigors of Canadian weather conditions.
Trane, Napoleon, and Bryant are renowned for their durable units, often backed by comprehensive warranties that instill confidence in the buyer.
Noise
Quiet operation is a desirable feature in any potential AC units, as excessive noise can be disruptive and bothersome.
The best air conditioner brands engineer their units with noise-reduction technology to provide peaceful and serene indoor environments.
Brands like Napoleon and Bryant excel in this aspect, offering models that operate at low decibel levels, ensuring cooling without disturbing household peace.
Let the Experts at Dr. HVAC Help You Choose From the Best Air Conditioning Units
Choosing the best air conditioner brand in Canada requires careful consideration of various factors, including energy efficiency, cooling performance, durability, and noise levels.
Brands like Trane, Goodman, Napoleon, Bryant, and RunTru have all made their mark in the market, each offering distinct advantages to cater to different homeowner preferences and budgets.
When investing in an air conditioner, it’s always advisable to seek expert advice and explore the models available from reputable dealers like Dr. HVAC to find the ideal cooling solution. And when you’ve chosen your high-efficiency air conditioner, we can also help with the AC installation and AC maintenance.