American Standard makes 7 central air conditioners with efficiency from 14.75 to 22 SEER. Top to bottom, it’s one of the most efficient lineups top to bottom.
American Standard air conditioner cost is $4,665 to $10,425 for installed ACs. Cost factors include the model, size and installation factors.
Note: If you’re just beginning your research into central air conditioners, then our Top 10 Central AC Guide is the best place to start. It has in-depth information about AC performance, size, efficiency and how these factors allow you to choose the right AC for your climate and indoor comfort preferences.
This American Standard central AC review will help you decide if American Standard is your AC brand – and if so, which unit will give you the right efficiency and performance for your cooling demands.
About American Standard – Are American Standard & Trane the Same?
American Standard is recognized by HVAC technicians as one of the top 5 brands for quality and durability. Independent testing by Consumer Reports and similar organizations.
The lineup has been consolidated from more than 12 units about a decade ago to just 7 – but there’s still a good model for every niche. Basically, American Standard stopped producing its least efficient models – 13 and 14 SEER units.
Did you know? American Standard and Trane are identical with one exception – Trane makes an 18 SEER and 16.5 SEER unit that American Standard doesn’t. Both brands are owned by Ingersoll-Rand. The same internal parts are used; the units are made in the same factories.
American Standard AC price vs Trane AC price is hard to nail down because dealers are secretive, not sharing costs until they are in your home providing a written estimate. From our research, American Standard units cost 8-12% less than Trane systems. Ingersoll-Rand does this to present consumers with brand and price options.
American Standard ACs – What’s Available?
This brand has a full range of HVAC equipment. This includes matching air handlers, gas and oil furnaces, heat pumps and indoor air quality equipment, which American Standard calls Indoor Environment equipment.
If you’re in the market for a complete system, our American Standard Furnace Review has full details on what’s available.
Here’s a Model Analysis of American Standard Air Conditioners
Model | Top SEER | Compressor | Thermostat | Noise Level (db) |
---|---|---|---|---|
AccuComfort Platinum 20 | 22 | Variable speed | AccuLink | 57-75 |
AccuComfort Platinum 18 | 18 | Variable speed | AccuLink | 57-75 |
Gold 17 | 18 | 2-stage | Gold | 72-74 |
Silver 16 | 17 | Single-stage | Silver | 71-74 |
Silver 16 Low Profile | 17 | Single-stage | Silver | 70-73 |
Silver 14 | 16 | Single-stage | Silver | 72-73 |
Silver 13 | 14.75 | Single-stage | Silver | 71-75 |
American Standard Air Conditioner Pros & Cons
This is a premium brand – and one of the more expensive too. These are American Standard advantages and disadvantages:
American Standard Pros & Unique Features
Here’s a look at these air conditioners through four lenses.
1. Energy Management
Controlling energy use is mostly about the unit’s compressor. Like most major brands except Goodman, American Standard makes three tiers of energy efficiency based on the compressor used.
Basic, Better and Best energy management.
Single-stage compressors: 4 of the brand’s 7 air conditioners use a single-stage compressor. When the AC is on, the compressor runs at full/100% capacity. On/off, on/off, on/off. Imagine running a car like that – flooring it for 5 minutes, and then letting it coast to a stop. Repeat. Repeat.
Your gas efficiency would suffer. That’s what you get with a single-stage AC. They are the least efficient, even though energy efficiency levels have risen to 17.
The trade-off is lower cost.
2-stage compressors: American Standard makes just one model in the “Better” category.
It has two gears. Low is about 65% of capacity – like 65mph in a car that will do 100. It runs on low as long as that “gear” will keep up with the cooling demand.
If you turn down the thermostat by more than a few degrees, or if outdoor temperatures spike and the AC has to work harder, it will shift into high, or 100% capacity until it catches up. As you cans see from the chart, 2-stage operation allows for a boost in efficiency. In terms of 2-stage models, the Lennox XC21 with 21 SEER is the most efficient made today.
Variable capacity compressors: Two units have compressors that change speeds in tiny increments. The modulating compressors of the Platinum 20 and 18 models adjust in increments of 1/10th of 1% – in other words, in approximately 700 stages between 30% and 100% capacity. Aka modular variable speed compressors, they gradually speed up and down to deliver the most efficient cooling of any type.
Higher cost – better efficiency. They’re a good choice for very warm and humid climates.
How good are American Standard compressors?
American Standard and sister-brand Trane make their own compressors called Duration/ClimaTuff, and they are considered among the very best in the industry.
The Platinum and Gold compressors use all-aluminum spine fin coils. The coils have tiny metal spikes on them and look like an aluminum bottle brush or similar. Heat transfers out the tiny bristles – a very efficient way to disperse heat that has been pumped out of your home.
2. Comfort Management
It won’t surprise you that there’s a link between energy management and all the other categories – Better in one, better in all.
How comfortable would your ride be if you drove pedal to the metal, coasted to a stop, hit the gas again…?
Single-stage compressors often produce temperature swings. Plus, they are usually paired with single-speed blower fans in the air handler or furnace. When the AC starts, the fan starts blowing air full-blast through the grates. It hasn’t been cooled yet, so you get warm, humid air blown at you.
It’s better with a two-stage AC, especially if it is paired with a variable speed blower fan.
The most comfortable cooling comes from a variable capacity AC paired with a variable speed blower fan. The units start slow, so there’s little muggy air coming out of the grates. As the air gets colder, the fan speeds up, creating balanced, comfortable cooling.
Thermostats play an important role in controlling staged cooling. American Standard makes AccuLink Platinum, Gold and Silver thermostats for the three performance tiers of ACs.
The AccuLink models are touchscreen thermostats – one is 7 inches; the others are 4.3 inches. All are WiFi thermostats and have built-in Nexia Bridge for smart home automation. The Platinum 1050 controls 200+ z-wave devices.
What about Communicating Technology?
American Standard AccuLink is more than a thermostat. It also can be used for American Standard’s proprietary communicating technology. Most thermostats direct the AC and furnace what to do – when to turn on or off, what level to run at and how fast the fan speed should run.
In communicating technology, the furnace and AC send data back to the thermostat. This allows the thermostat to precisely control the operation of the system to optimize temperature control and humidity levels.
Sounds good? If the technology were “perfect,” it would be. But no brand makes communicating technology that is highly dependable. At times, the units stop communicating – and it can be hard to get them “talking” again. It can be a nightmare to the homeowner and the technician trying to make it work again.
American Standard and Trane have identical communicating technology.
Here’s what one of our readers said about it: “We had to replace our HVAC a couple of years ago and decided to go with a communicating model from Trane based on advice of a contractor neighbor. We’ve regretted it ever since, as despite additional efforts since (like having our HVAC contractor zone the house as much as possible), our temperature regulation with our old non-communicating model and Ecobee thermostat (even without the benefit of the zone controls) was superior to what we’ve experienced with the Trane proprietary thermostat.”
Talk with potential installers about American Standard AccuLink communicating technology. If you choose it, do it with your “eyes wide open” to its pros and cons.
3. Humidity Management
How does an AC dehumidify the air?
When the refrigerant in the indoor coil takes heat out of the air, it gets very cold – so cold that moisture in the air readily condenses onto it.
The coils are sloped with a drain at the bottom. The condensed moisture is drained away.
As we’ve noted, variable capacity ACs running long, low cycles remove more water over the course of the day. Two-stage models are next, removing about 70% as much moisture. Single-stage units are about 50% as effective in dehumidifying your home.
What’s the take-away? The more humid your environment is, the more it makes sense to upgrade to a two-stage or variable speed unit.
4. Sound Management
Variable capacity compressors are quieter on the low end because they run at a much lower capacity.
See our reviews of those brands to compare sound levels listed in the Model Analysis tables.
Cons – Problems with American Standard ACs
What’s the downside to American Standard ACs?
They’re expensive. Quality costs. If you’re looking for a cheaper AC without sacrificing too much quality, look at Goodman.
Sound levels: Compared to other leading brands like York, Bryant and Rheem, American Standard air conditioners are average to slightly louder than most. We don’t recommend making a buying decision based on sound, but it’s worth knowing.
Warranties: They’re so-so, as is discussed below.
American Standard Air Conditioner Prices by Model
The System Only column in this table include the condensing unit, indoor coil, refrigerant line set, programmable mid-price thermostat plus, of course, the dealer’s overhead costs and profit.
The System Installed column includes installation labor charges including supplies and minor changes to ductwork. It does not include new ductwork.
Model | System Only | System Installed |
---|---|---|
AccuComfort Platinum 20 | $4,880 - $7,430 | $6,340 - $10,870 |
AccuComfort Platinum 18 | $4,710 - $7,430 | $6,220 - $10,110 |
Gold 17 | $4,100 - $6,760 | $5,940 - $9,890 |
Silver 16 | $3,550 - $6,380 | $5,270 - $9,040 |
Silver 16 Low Profile | $3,830 - $6,490 | $5,430 - $9,230 |
Silver 14 | $3,530 - $6,350 | $5,200 - $8,920 |
Silver 13 | $3,280 - $5,970 | $4,840 - $8,510 |
|
American Standard Air Conditioner Prices by Size
Sizing is a very important factor in choosing a central AC. It is covered at length in our Central AC Review and Guide.
Ask prospective installers if they plan to do a Manual J load calculation or similar to determine the exact size is best for your home.
The prices in this table are for midrange American Standard units like the 2-stage Gold 17 and the single-stage Silver 16 central air conditioners.
AC Unit Size | Home Size | System Only | System Installed |
---|---|---|---|
1.5 ton | 600-1000 sf | $3,730 | $6,050 |
2.0 ton | 1001 - 1300 sf | $3,780 | $6,260 |
2.5 ton | 1301 - 1600 sf | $4,050 | $6,510 |
3 ton | 1601 - 1900 sf | $4,410 | $7,080 |
3.5 ton | 1901 - 2200 sf | $4,670 | $7,230 |
4.0 ton | 2201 - 2600 sf | $4,730 | $7,510 |
5.0 ton | 2601 - 3200 sf | $5,250 | $7,520 |
Note on Tables in this Guide – We do the same or very similar tables for all the brands we review. See reviews of Lennox, Rheem, Bryant, Carrier and others for easy comparison.
If you don’t konw what size you need, our Central AC Btu Calculator can help you get an more accurate size in a minute. It takes more factors like insulation and climate into consideration.
American Standard Warranties
The warranties are slightly better than average. Brands like Goodman, York, Heil and Day & Night have longer, more comprehensive warranties that also provide replacement of the entire outside condensing unit if the compressor fails during the first 5 years to Lifetime.
The AccuComfort Platinum 20 and 18 and the Gold 17 are backed by a warranty for 12 years on the compressor.
Silver models have a 10-year compressor warranty.
The general parts and outdoor coil warranties for all models are 10 years.
Who Installs American Standard?
There are two types of American Standard dealers. This is true of most brands.
Certified Dealers: American Standard calls its certified dealers Customer Care Dealers. They have proven track records of experience and getting advanced training on the installation of American Standard systems. Some are NATE-certified too (explained next).
Non-certified Dealers: Other dealers can sell and install American Standard ACs and systems even if they haven’t been specifically trained in American Standard systems. This doesn’t necessarily mean they are inferior. Many of them have been trained in another, similar brand and/or have North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification.
In fact, American Standard recommends you find a dealer with NATE certification.
Finding a Quality Dealer – We Can Help
We suggest getting written estimates from at least 3 local contractors with experience installing American Standard equipment – or whatever brand you select.
Most of the dealers in our Free Local Quotes service are either American Standard-certified, NATE-certified or both.
There is no cost or obligation for using the service. It gives you a chance to get written estimates from pre-screened, licensed, insured and certified local dealers.
We recommend getting the estimates and interviewing each company. Ask their advice about which system is right for your home and cooling needs. Once you get several estimates, you can compare “apples to apples” in terms of equipment and cost.
Also look at their reviews online (Google, Yelp, etc.). It is the best way to be an informed consumer and make an air conditioner buying decision you’ll be happy with now and in the future.
Feel free to fill out the convenient form or to make a quick phone call – and free estimates from some of the top dealers in your area will be on the way. They know they are competing for your business, so are ready to give you their best cost on a quality American Standard air conditioner or complete system.
Submitted Prices and Reviews by Readers
We will not edit any words from submitted feedback information. We will update this table every 3-6 months and you may not see your submitted review immediately.
Brand & Model & SizePriceHome LocationHome Size |
---|
American Standard Gold 17$13,629Monterey, TN2000 sq ft |
Includes new 96% AFUE dual-fuel back-up heat exchanger, new concrete pad, and new copper tubing. |
American Standard Gold AUD2C100 80% furnace + Silver 4A7A3036 central AC$5,600Chicago Illinois1832 sq ft |
Replaced 24 year old Carrier Weathermaker 80% furnace (though was still working fine) and even older Lennox AC (which failed). Very please with new American Standard HVAC components in smooth functionality and quietness. Both came with 10 years manufacturer parts warranty and 10 year labor from the HVAC installer. The seem solidly built with high quality, even more so than the previous Carrier and Lennox. |
American Standard Silver 15$4690.00 PLUS TAXPORT TOWNSEND, WA.1530 sq ft |
Included air handler, american standard model#tem6aob30 |
American Standard, Silver 14$6,205.00Flower Mound, TX1802 sq ft |
Top Gun Heating and Air, North Richland Hills, TX... |
Platinum ZM$6,850Phoenix, AZ1600 sqft |
I was about to buy a Payne before I got this American Standard. A friend stopped me before I bought because she had problems with her own. This unit has done a great job at keeping the house cool I like it. |
Platinum XM 16 SEER$5,180Houston, TX2000 sqft |
Knowing the brand well is important before you out buying their products. There is a lot of false advertising out here and you might fall for it and buy yourself a piece of junk. I did my research on American Standard and found out all there was to know about their reputation as a company. Needless to say it is a worthy purchase, I like it. |
Gold XI 4 ton$1,700 Unit OnlyMcKinney, TX2300 sqft |
American Standard is the best in its class hands down. The system I have was bought about 9 months ago and so far it hasn’t given me any problems plus it runs so noiselessly. |
Platinum 4?ton 15 SEER$5,550Prattville, AL3350 sqft |
My rental houses use American Standard as the ac and I haven’t had any complaints. I replaced 3 just 5 months ago and so far they are operating at peak performance. You see when business people like myself find brands like American Standard that have quality products it takes a lot of pressure of our backs because a lot of things just take care of themselves. |
American Standard Silver XI$5,150Anaheim, CA2200 sqft |
I have had this unit for almost two years now and it already needs a compressor. I don’t know what happened to the unit even though my friend tells me sometimes the installers mess with the thermostat and cause problems later. It stopped running about a week ago and it’s taking time to fix because of something to do with lack of spare parts. |
Silver SI 2.5 ton 13 SEER$3,890Fisherville, KY2200 sqft |
It keeps the utility bill low, hasn’t broken down and cools the house well even when it is overly hot. That is all it takes to make a good ac in my books. I have had it for 2 years now and not a single repair has been required. Let’s see how much longer this machine has left in it but I have a feeling it’s going to be a long time. |
Platinum ZM 4 ton$6,949Birmingham, AL2900 sqft |
Poor quality machine doesn’t bother buying it. I feel like the money I spent on this thing has gone down the drain. I have spent over $1,000 in repairs because the thing keeps breaking down after being fixed. Using the machine has been a bad experience that you are better of avoiding. I have actually also asked around and some of the people I have talked to generally do not feel like they got their money’s worth and have had plenty of negative things to say. |
How to Get the Best American Standard AC Prices?
- Firstly, keep in mind that installation quality is always the most important thing for air conditioner project. So never sacrifice contractor quality for lower price.
- Secondly, remember to look up the rebates.
- Thirdly, ask for at least 3 bids before you make the decision. You can click here to get 3 free estimates from your local contractors, and this estimate already takes rebates and tax credit into consideration and filter unqualified contractors automatically.
At last, once you chose the right contractor, remember to use the tactics from this guide: homeowners tactics when negotiating with HVAC dealer to get the final best price.
Please post a date of publication on your website.
The prices for an installed system shown are 1-2 thousand less than the LOWEST bid I’ve had for a 4 ton unit. I’m in Orange County, California and my home has never had air conditioning, BUT, has a 4 ton furnace in place. The low bid isn’t replacing duct work so what can be the reason for such a discrepancy between the prices shown here and what I’ve been quoted?
I would appreciate the decibels rating for the different models. If any knows where I can find that I’d appreciate it tremendously.
I’ve gotten bids on the Gold 17 5 ton split HVAC unit ranging from $8,700. to over $10,000. I’m in Tucson. I am replacing a 12 year-old 5 ton Rheem. No duct work, no electrical and no pad needed. New equipment can be put in place without a crane. They plan to clean the existing freon lines. Based on the estimates in this article, my quotes seem exceptionally excessive. What gives in Tucson? Any suggestions for obtaining a more reasonable quote?
Tom,
I also live in Tucson and have gotten similar quotes.. what gives? Did you ever get a more reasonable quote. I would really like to get the Gold or Platinum but the Platinum models they want like 15k which is ridiculous.
Right now, 12/04/2019 – 11 AM, installation of American Standard Silver 3 ton unit is occurring. 1,700 sq ft house in Rockledge, Florida. Replacing Payne 3 ton unit that was installed in 2010. Not inclined to knock Payne because A/C here runs a LOT. And the compressor was hit with recycled water to irrigate the lawn.
(That occurred before I bought the house in 2018.)
I LIKE that American Standard is made in the USA!
Installation cost is $6,000.
Includes removing old system, installing new system, new coolant lines, new thermostat. Using existing pad, duct work and most of the wiring.
One day installation.
I could have gotten something for less, but I am using the highest rated company in our area.
And the salesman talked my out of my preconceived notions. I had wanted a heat pump and a two stage compressor. Our area gives energy rebates for straight A/C, but NOT heat pumps. Too many problems reported.
Salesman did quote for two stage and it was $1,500 more.
I figure the two stage unit would have paid for itself some time after I pass …
Note that I planned my A/C outage well – outside temp range today is 44-67, indoor (well insulated) is now 69 = comfortable.
Thank you for this post as I am really interested in AMERICAN STANDARD and yes ITS made in the USA! I want to support my country and keep Americans working at home and support my countrymen. I have done a lot of research and yes the two best brands on the market are LENNOX and AMERICAN STANDARD, no doubt in my mind of research for two weeks! The problems that people Are experiencing In failures to their AC Units is solely the installers who installed them incorrectly or didn’t give a dam about their work, take your money 💰 and on to the next home owner! Simply by paying a little more for the guy who has a great reputation is peace ☮️ in mind! Do yourself a favor and do yourself some good and research what you’re interested in and compare them all as I have and give you my honesty and feedback to simply save yourself in the long run! Support America and buy American Made and a good reputable contractors and you should get more then 15 years out of your unit as long as you have it maintained properly with the company who installed it for you and building your relationships with your tech’s of that company!
I hope that this post helps the next person with their search for their next purchase on a new AC UNIT and I think that you’re going to be happy with your new American standard!
Just bought AS Gold AC. Variable speed compressor… Outside unit has SEER 15 sticker….Huh???
15 SEER sticker? Can you post a photo of the sticker?