Find out which air conditioner brands to avoid.
Knowing which air conditioner brands to avoid should be your first step before making a purchase.When considering an investment in a home air conditioning system, it’s crucial to make an informed choice to ensure long-term comfort for your family.
To avoid potential issues, it’s advisable to research and be aware of AC brands to avoid.Goodman central air conditioners have garnered the most recalls, and they are closely followed by Coleman and York.
Furthermore, these brands receive low reliability ratings from consumers. Additionally, Luxaire and Concord should be on your list of AC brands to avoid.
If you’re considering a window unit, exercise caution with Hisense, TCL, and Keystone brands, as they have shown reliability concerns.
For portable AC options, Friedrich stands out as the AC brand to avoid.
Air Conditioner Brand Current Number of Open Recalls .
- Coleman 2
- York 2
- Goodman 3
- Luxaire 0
- Concord 0
- Hisense 0
- TCL 0
- Keystone 0
- GE 1
- Frigidaire 0
- Friedrich 1
- Black + Decker 0
- Whynter 0
Factors Going into Which Brand is Reliable.
When assessing the reliability of AC brands, there are various factors to take into account. You might want to identify the best A/C brands and, conversely, the AC brands to avoid based on several criteria.
For instance, your decision could hinge on finding a unit with superior energy efficiency ratings.
Also read: Common problems with PTAC Units.
Factors such as installation expenses, the duration of the warranty, and the overall build quality are all critical considerations when determining which A/C brands are worth considering and which ones should be classified as AC brands to avoid.
1.Longevity.
The majority of central air conditioning systems are designed to offer a minimum lifespan of 15 years, with many even reaching 15-20 years of efficient operation.
However, it’s important to note that certain units may have a shorter expected lifespan, typically around 10 years.
There are specific brands renowned for their durability, and these are often associated with higher quality units.
Opting for these reputable brand names may entail a slightly higher initial investment.
When discussing longevity, it’s not only about how long the system lasts but also about how long it can function without encountering significant problems or necessitating extensive mechanical repairs.
In contrast, Air Conditioner Brands to Avoid may have a shorter lifespan and are more prone to issues and repairs.
Air Conditioner Brand Average Lifespan.
- Coleman 10 – 20 years
- York 15 – 25 years
- Goodman 10 – 15 years
- Luxaire 15 – 20 years
- Concord 10 – 12 years
- Hisense 8 – 15 years
- TCL 9 – 15 years
- Keystone 7 – 14 years
- GE 10 – 15 years
- Frigidaire 9 – 16 years
- Friedrich 8 – 15 years
- Black + Decker 5 – 10 years
- Whynter 5 – 12 years
2.Warranty Information.
A robust warranty can serve as a reassuring safety net, alleviating concerns about the longevity of your air conditioner.
When you invest in a reputable brand, any issues that may arise within the first few years are often comprehensively covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that not all manufacturers offer the same level of warranty protection.
Additionally, it’s essential to recognize that improper care or neglect of your A/C system could potentially invalidate the warranty.
Attempting to perform DIY repairs or having unauthorized service providers work on your air conditioner may also jeopardize your warranty coverage.
Hence, it is of utmost importance to acquaint yourself with the warranty’s fine print to distinguish between trustworthy AC brands and those AC brands to avoid when it comes to warranty terms and conditions.
Air Conditioner Brand Warranty.
- Coleman 2-year limited warranty, 10-year parts limited warranty
- York 10-year parts limited warranty; lifetime compressor limited warranty (depends on exact model)
- Goodman 10-year unit replacement limited warranty; 10-year parts limited warranty; 10-year unit replacement limited warranty (depends on exact model)
- Luxaire Lifetime compressor and heat exchanger warranties; 10-year parts limited warranty
- Concord 5-year parts limited warranty; 20-year limited warranty on heat exchangers
- Hisense 2-years
- TCL 5-10 year limited warranty
- Keystone 1-year limited warranty
- GE 1-year limited warranty
- Frigidaire 1-year limited warranty
- Friedrich 1-year limited warranty
- Black + Decker 2-year limited warranty
- Whynter 1-year limited warranty
Which Air Conditioner Brands to Avoid.
Numerous widely recognized air conditioner brands are highly popular and trusted by consumers. Conversely, there are equally as many less reliable AC brands to avoid.
Nevertheless, it can be challenging to distinguish between them, as many brands may appear similar. Fortunately, we have undertaken the necessary research to provide you with guidance on how to avoid problematic AC brand choices.
1.Coleman.
Coleman air conditioners can be readily found in the market, with numerous retailers offering their products.
However, this is an Air Conditioner Brands to Avoid for several compelling reasons. To begin with, Coleman has a track record of multiple recalls over the years, indicating significant product issues.
While Coleman products may attract customers with their affordability, this lower price point often comes at the expense of quality and energy efficiency.
Over time, consumers have voiced complaints about various problems and installation issues associated with Coleman air conditioners.
These concerns have led the company to provide an extensive warranty. Nonetheless, having a robust warranty doesn’t change the fact that dealing with a malfunctioning A/C unit can be a major inconvenience.
According to Consumer Reports, Coleman air conditioners received the lowest “fair” rating in terms of reliability among all the scores.
Additionally, consumer satisfaction ratings for Coleman did not rank at the top.
When it comes to problems and repairs, Consumer Reports found that Coleman air conditioners experienced significant issues with their evaporator coils.
This made Coleman one of the three brands with higher-than-average problem rates related to evaporator coils, specifically.
Furthermore, Coleman air conditioners typically feature lower SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings compared to other brands.
This implies that operating a Coleman unit may result in higher energy costs compared to more energy-efficient alternatives, making it a clear choice as an AC brand to avoid.
2.York.
York is another well-known and readily available brand in the realm of air conditioning systems. Nevertheless, it’s essential to be aware of the drawbacks associated with their products before making a purchase decision.
York has established a reputation for being budget-friendly, but this often means making concessions in terms of quality, features, and efficiency – sometimes all three.
York’s air conditioning systems are essentially workhorses. They lack the advanced features and extras you might find in other A/C systems, and to access their highest-performing units, you’ll need to invest in their top-of-the-line models.
The lower-priced models on the York spectrum noticeably compromise on quality and energy efficiency. These budget-friendly options are also more susceptible to problems, which could translate into additional repair and maintenance costs over time.
One of the notable downsides of York systems is that they are known to be challenging to install.
This implies that you’ll likely need to hire an authorized York contractor to perform the installation, potentially leading to higher overall installation costs than you might encounter with other brands.
York systems do offer a good expected lifespan, capable of lasting up to 25 years if maintained properly.
However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that you may need to pay a premium price for their top models to access the best quality products. These considerations make York a brand to be cautious about when looking for an air conditioning system.
3.Goodman.
Goodman air conditioners have not garnered the most favorable reputation in the market. Their performance typically lags behind some of their competitors, evident in lower reliability and satisfaction ratings.
Moreover, they have been subject to three separate product recalls in recent history. In terms of longevity, Goodman air conditioners fall short when compared to similarly positioned brands, with an average lifespan of only 10-15 years.
Goodman air conditioners are often chosen for new construction homes due to their affordability and widespread availability.
However, it’s worth noting that contractors, in an effort to keep costs down, might opt for the least expensive products, potentially compromising the quality experienced by homeowners.
Additionally, Goodman serves as the budget-friendly alternative to the popular Amana brand, which means that some trade-offs in quality and features are made to achieve a lower price point.
Nonetheless, Goodman has demonstrated resilience in the industry over several decades. U.S. News has recognized Goodman by ranking it as the third-best HVAC company in their 2022 list, which signifies its lasting presence and credibility.
However, if you prioritize maximizing your system’s efficiency, it’s advisable to explore other options. Goodman air conditioners do not offer the best SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, which could result in higher operational costs.
Moreover, they do not provide the quietest units, so if noise disruption is a concern for you and your family, it may be prudent to consider another brand, making Goodman an Air Conditioner Brands to Avoid in such cases.
Also read>>>>Goodman Air Conditioner Problems.
4.Luxaire.
Luxaire air conditioners share the same manufacturer as York and Coleman, resulting in significant similarities in terms of quality and features.
Similar to York and Coleman, Luxaire units encounter many of the same issues, such as problems with the evaporator coils.
Reliability and satisfaction surveys indicate that Luxaire units did not perform as well as many of their competitors, largely due to the persisting issues with their coils.
These coils are susceptible to leaks and damage, often necessitating replacement or repairs during the ownership period.
Should these coils start leaking, it becomes evident in the reduced efficiency of the air conditioner, leading to insufficient cooling and discomfort in your home.
However, if you are specifically considering a Johnson Controls product, Luxaire is arguably the better choice among the three options we mentioned.
They also offer a decent warranty. Nevertheless, it remains true that many consumers encounter issues with these units, making Luxaire an Air Conditioner Brands to Avoid for those looking for a more reliable and hassle-free air conditioning system.
5.Concord.
Concord, although it might not be as widely recognized, is a brand you may encounter when searching for budget-friendly air conditioning units.
Concord is manufactured by the same company responsible for Lennox air conditioners, but it doesn’t match the same level of quality and features found in its more expensive counterparts.
Concord air conditioners may catch your attention due to their affordability, along with slightly lower installation costs.
However, these units rank among the least energy-efficient options available. This means they will run for longer durations, work harder, and consume more energy to cool your home compared to higher-quality systems.
While you may experience initial cost savings with a Concord air conditioner, the long-term perspective may favor alternative options.
Concord models typically have SEER ratings in the 13-15 range, indicating that more efficient models can be found elsewhere.
Additionally, Concord systems tend to encounter similar coil problems as Luxaire models.
Another noteworthy concern is the average lifespan of Concord air conditioners, which is approximately 10 years.
This implies a higher likelihood of breakdowns and faster wear and tear compared to other brands that can last 15-20 years with proper care and maintenance.
All of these factors underscore why Concord might not be the most favorable choice for your home and qualifies it as an Air Conditioner Brands to Avoid, especially if you prioritize energy efficiency and longevity.
6.Hisense.
Hisense specializes in manufacturing window-unit air conditioners and small, portable units, which are often known for their efficiency and relatively straightforward installation process.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that Hisense air conditioners do not offer the same array of high-tech features found in more expensive units.
The central principle behind Hisense air conditioners is to provide budget-friendly options that are readily available at major retail stores.
Given their mass-produced nature and the expectation that handy homeowners will install them themselves, these units have a rather simplified design.
Consequently, you may not enjoy the same convenient features that more upscale brands offer. For instance, a basic, standard model from Hisense might lack a remote control or timer, and you might have limited control over the direction of the air vents.
Additionally, Hisense units generally lack mechanisms to indicate whether the filter is dirty without manually inspecting it, which stands in contrast to higher-quality units that incorporate dirty filter indicators.
In comparison to some other brands, Hisense window units tend to be noisier and more disruptive. With a Hisense unit, you won’t experience the quiet, peaceful cooling that better-quality models provide.
Even when the system is set to “low,” you may still contend with continuous noise emanating from the unit.
All these factors emphasize why Hisense could be considered an AC brand to avoid if you prioritize advanced features and noise levels in your air conditioning system.
7.TCL
TCL offers a range of window units and portable air conditioners that are quite basic, lacking the advanced features and extras you might find in some of the more high-end brands.
The design and functionality of TCL air conditioners closely resemble those of Hisense.
For individuals seeking budget-friendly options, TCL stands out with some of the most affordable price points in the market.
However, it’s essential to bear in mind the adage that “you get what you pay for,” and this holds true for TCL air conditioners.
Similar to Hisense, TCL units are often characterized by their noise levels and comparative lack of efficiency when compared to other available options.
Despite their budget-friendly pricing, TCL air conditioners might meet your needs if you’re looking to cool a garage or shed.
Nevertheless, if you intend to place the unit in a prominent location within your living space, it might be advisable to consider a higher-quality model that operates more quietly.
In cases where noise levels and energy efficiency are not of primary concern, TCL units offer favorable warranties when compared to other window units and portable air conditioners.
Furthermore, their lifespan is better than average, making them a viable choice for those seeking a budget A/C unit, even though they may fall into the category of AC brands to avoid if you prioritize quiet operation and energy efficiency.
8.Keystone.
Keystone offers a budget-friendly air conditioning option that can be appealing for those seeking effective cooling within a limited space.
Their products are surprisingly potent given their compact size, capable of efficiently cooling areas of up to 700 square feet.
What sets Keystone apart is their ability to dehumidify, a feature that places them a step above some of the other brands we’ve discussed in terms of quality.
However, it’s crucial to note that Keystone air conditioners do not come with heating capabilities.
This means that if you desire year-round control over the temperature in your living space, Keystone units won’t meet that requirement.
Users have also frequently reported that these air conditioners produce considerable noise, which can be disruptive when you’re attempting to enjoy a movie or read a book.
Keystone units do incorporate some of the basic features that were lacking in the other models we’ve covered.
This includes options such as remote controls and indicators for a dirty filter. Additionally, you can set timers and schedules on these units, allowing them to initiate cooling at predetermined times.
Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that Keystone air conditioners might take a bit longer to achieve the desired cooling, which can be a drawback if you’re looking for a quick cooldown.
Their SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating typically hovers around 10 or 11, indicating that they may not be the most efficient choice available.
While Keystone offers certain advantages, particularly in terms of dehumidification, it’s essential to weigh these against the potential drawbacks, making them an option to consider carefully if you prioritize a more efficient and quieter operation in your air conditioning system.
9.GE.
While GE is a renowned name in the realm of home appliances, having established significant brand recognition, this doesn’t automatically translate to superior product performance.
GE manufactures both window units and portable air conditioning systems, equipping many of their popular models with standard features commonly found in modern systems, including remote controls, timers, and automatic fan settings.
However, it’s essential to consider that GE air conditioners tend to be heavier compared to their competitors, which can make installation, especially for the window units, a bit cumbersome.
Users have reported that GE air conditioners may not cool a room as swiftly as desired, particularly when compared to some other brands offering similar products.
When faced with less than ideal conditions or insufficient power, GE air conditioners exhibit noticeable drops in performance. They take longer to cool the space and consume more energy in the process.
Another aspect to take into account is the warranty coverage provided by GE, which often falls short compared to that of their competitors.
With many units, you’ll typically receive only a limited one-year warranty, which might not instill a high level of confidence in the company’s product durability.
All of these considerations make GE an AC brand to avoid if you are searching for a more lightweight, efficient, and robust air conditioning system backed by more substantial warranty coverage.
10.Frigidaire.
Frigidaire closely resembles GE in terms of performance, features, and capabilities, making them quite similar. However, one noticeable distinction lies in their average price point.
Despite offering products that are essentially in line with their competitors, Frigidaire air conditioners generally come at a higher cost without delivering significantly more value for the investment.
In comparison to other air conditioning units of similar size, Frigidaire air conditioners were found to be noisier and exhibited less consistent performance.
This means that it might take a longer time to cool a room under particularly hot and humid conditions, or if your home encounters a voltage drop for any reason.
If you’re simultaneously using other appliances that put additional strain on the outlet or circuit, you may observe that your Frigidaire A/C doesn’t perform as effectively.
Furthermore, the Frigidaire warranty doesn’t provide much cause for excitement. For the majority of models, you should not anticipate more than a one-year limited warranty, which may not offer the level of coverage and confidence that many consumers seek.
All of these considerations make Frigidaire an AC brand to avoid if you are seeking an air conditioning unit that combines performance, efficiency, and better warranty coverage for your investment.
11.Friedrich.
Friedrich specializes in portable air conditioners, but they have not fared well with consumers in terms of reliability. The company has accumulated a notable number of reports regarding various failures and units breaking down after just one season of use.
Notably, for portable A/C units, Friedrich’s offerings are larger than one might anticipate, which could pose a space-related challenge, especially in smaller apartments or when seeking a discreet corner placement. If space is a constraint, you might want to explore alternative brands.
These Friedrich units also tend to be noisier compared to some of the other available options. In instances where constant operation is necessary, as reported by some users, you’ll have little respite from the noise, potentially leading to discomfort.
Moreover, Friedrich provides only a one-year limited warranty for their air conditioners. Consequently, if issues arise with the compressor or any other component beyond that one-year mark, you may find yourself disappointed to learn that you are left to address and finance the repairs independently.
All of these factors make Friedrich an AC brand to avoid if you are looking for a more reliable, space-efficient, and quieter portable air conditioning solution with better warranty coverage for your peace of mind.
12.Black + Decker.
When it comes to portable air conditioners, Black + Decker doesn’t outshine Friedrich by much which makes it our last Air Conditioner Brands to Avoid. Nevertheless, the brand benefits from its name recognition, which contributes to its presence in the market and continued consumer purchases.
The primary draw for many consumers when opting for Black + Decker is the cost-effectiveness.
These units are notably cheaper, with options available for under $400. However, the affordability factor may not necessarily justify the purchase if the unit fails to effectively cool your home.
Many users have expressed dissatisfaction with Black + Decker portable air conditioners, citing poor performance and excessive noise during operation.
Even when the system is set to the “low” setting, the air conditioner tends to be loud and potentially disruptive, highlighting why Black + Decker is an AC brand to avoid if you are seeking a quieter and more efficient cooling solution, even at a slightly higher price point.
Also read>>>>Common Rheem Air Conditioner Problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which air conditioning brands should I avoid due to reliability and performance issues?
Based on the discussion, some air conditioning brands to avoid include Goodman, Luxaire, Coleman, Concord, Hisense, TCL, Keystone, GE, Frigidaire, Friedrich, and Black + Decker. These brands have received unfavorable feedback regarding reliability, efficiency, noise levels, and overall performance.
Are there affordable air conditioning options that are reliable and efficient?
While some budget-friendly options like Hisense, TCL, Keystone, and Black + Decker are available, it’s important to consider potential trade-offs.
These options tend to be less efficient, noisier, and may have shorter lifespans. Exploring slightly higher-priced alternatives might be advisable to strike a balance between affordability and performance.
What factors should I consider when choosing an air conditioning brand?
When selecting an air conditioning brand, it’s crucial to consider factors such as reliability, efficiency, noise levels, installation, warranty coverage, and lifespan.
Prioritizing brands with a reputation for durability, energy efficiency, and comprehensive warranty support can lead to a more satisfactory long-term investment.
Which air conditioning brands offer the best warranties and value for the price?
Among the brands discussed, GE, Frigidaire, Friedrich, and Black + Decker generally offer limited one-year warranties, which may not provide extensive coverage or instill confidence in their products.
For better warranty coverage and value for the price, it may be advisable to explore other brands with more robust warranty offerings and a reputation for reliable performance.
Conclusion.
Whether you’re in the market for a new air conditioner or planning to replace your existing one, it’s crucial to recognize that this represents a significant investment in your home.
Central air conditioning systems generally come with a higher price tag compared to window units or portable A/Cs, but all these options demand a decision based on their ability to meet your cooling needs adequately.
In most cases, consumers are willing to invest more in products that offer better quality and superior performance than their cheaper counterparts.
However, it’s important to be aware that there are numerous air conditioners available on the market at higher price points that can leave you disappointed or facing troublesome issues like whistling noises, leaks, or units that continue to operate even when turned off.
Conducting research before making your purchase is a wise approach. This proactive step not only helps you make a well-informed decision but also ensures that you get the best value for your money.
Being knowledgeable about which AC brands to avoid can save you time and enable you to secure a more favorable deal when you purchase your new air conditioner, safeguarding your investment.
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