Note: Before you dive into the specific brand review, we highly recommend you to read our elaborate Central Air Conditioner Buying Guide in advance, there are several crucial steps you need to take before you even start to think about the brand.
Buying a central air conditioner should be an investment that should pay back the cost in the future years. It is thus critical to do enough research on the AC you want to buy before making a decision. Since the year 1928, Armstrong has been the choice for many homeowners for their cooling needs. The units made from Armstrong are durable as well incorporated with brilliant technology in the market. As a member of the Energy Star community, Armstrong is focused and committed to manufacturing durable air conditioners at affordable prices. Some of the AC models made by Armstrong include 4SCU18LS model, the 4SCU14LEmodel among a few others.
Unique Features
Integrated Compressor Protection
Armstrong ACs are built with high and low-pressure switches. The switches add more reliability to the air conditioner. The high-pressure switch in place prevents stops the operation of the air conditioner when the pressure of the refrigerant has exceeded safe levels thus protecting the compressor. In case the unit does not have any refrigerant, the low-pressure switch stops the unit from drawing moisture inside or any other contaminants when running. Not many ACs from other brands have this kind of protection system.
MHTTM Technology
This is a specially designed fan system. The technology evenly pulls sufficient air all through the coils of the air conditioner. The rifled tubing feature of the coils helps in the proper flow of the refrigerant. On the other hand loop, fins that are laced enable and increase the contact time between air and metal. The whole combination of this technology ensures maximum efficiency and overall performance of the central air conditioner.
Up to 18 SEER Energy Efficiency
The energy ratio of an AC rates the energy efficiency of the cooling unit. Higher SEER ratings are an indication of a highly efficient cooling unit. This results in saving money on utility bills after a given period. The Armstrong 4AC18LT AC model has a SEER rating of 18 making it a highly efficient model. The price of the model is a bit high, but the price is reasonable given the high rate of efficiency and proper performance of the model. Other models are available with a SEER rating of between 13 and 16.
Communicating Technology
A communication control board is available for the Armstrong 4SCU18LS model. The technology monitors the internal components continuously to ensure optimum performance as well as fault prevention. When this technology is paired together with a Comfort Sync Thermostat, a homeowner, and their dealer can be notified automatically when maintenance or repairs are required for the unit. This technology is beyond standard thermostats, the technology by design adjusts for best performance as well as efficiency. It also gives a signal during maintenance time and or when filters need changing.
Armstrong Model Analysis
| Model | SEER | Sound Level | Compressor | Communicating | Energy Star |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4SCU20LX | 20 | 72 | Variable | Yes | NO |
| 4SCU18LS | 18 | 72 | Two-Stage | Yes | NO |
| 4SCU16LS | 16 | 75 | Two-Stage | Yes | Yes |
| 4SCU14LE | 14 | 75 | Single-Stage | No | Yes |
| 4SCU14LB | 14 | 76 | Single-Stage | No | Yes |
| 4SCU13LE | 13 | 76 | Single-Stage | No | NO |
| 4SCU13LB | 13 |
Best Cost-Effective Armstrong Models For You
As we have discussed in our central air conditioner guide, the SEER is the most important parameter deciding the initial equipment cost and future energy savings.
Higher SEER Models can not always pay your money back. We developed a SEER Savings Calculator to help find a better balance between equipment cost and electricity cost. This tool can automatically load your local power rate and yearly cooling hours when using Chrome explorer. You can also adjust these inputs manually to get a more accurate result.
Armstrong Air Conditioner Prices By Model
In order to offer an objective and equal comparison, we set the baseline below:
Each model includes: 2.5-ton outdoor condenser, 1300-1400 CFM air handler, programmable air conditioner thermostat.
| Models | System Only | System Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Armstrong 4SCU20LX | $2,130 | $4,630 |
| Armstrong 4SCU16LS | $1,420 | $3,880 |
| Armstrong 4SCU14LE | $1,160 | $3,570 |
| Armstrong 4SCU14LB | $1,090 | $3,410 |
| Armstrong 4SCU13LE | $1,000 | $3,170 |
| Armstrong 4SCU13LB | $960 | $3,090 |
Armstrong Air Conditioner Prices By Size
Before installing your air conditioner, an HVAC contractor needs to size your system by “Manual J” calculation. This will take into accounts factors like where you live, how much insulation you have, windows types and directions, and everything else. Then you will get a right-sized central air conditioner ranging from 1.5-ton to 5-ton.
Each Unit includes: Armstrong 2.5-ton 16 SEER outdoor condenser, 1300-1400 CFM air handler, programmable thermostat.
| AC Unit Size | Home Size | System Only | System Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 ton | 600 - 1000 sf | $990 | $3,130 |
| 2 ton | 1001 - 1300 sf | $1,110 | $3,300 |
| 2.5 ton | 1301 - 1600 sf | $1,220 | $3,360 |
| 3 ton | 1601 - 1900 sf | $1,440 | $3,680 |
| 3.5 ton | 1901 - 2200 sf | $1,570 | $3,960 |
| 4 ton | 2201 - 2600 sf | $1,830 | $4,320 |
| 5 ton | 2601 - 3200 sf | $2,290 | $4,850 |
You can use our Central AC Btu Calculator to get an estimated size you need. It takes more factors like insulation and climate into consideration.
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 |
|---|
| Armstrong 4SCU14$5150 installed with separate gas heat unitGardendale, AL1700 sq ft two story (850 sq ft per floor) |
| Replaced a 30y/o Rudd unit on 6/1/19 with this Armstrong unit based on Consumer Reports reliability ratings and local HVAC guys recommendation. Already have had to replace the inside coil due to Dirty Sock syndrome (caused by using recycled aluminum to build the coil cheaper-bacteria builds up on the coil easier due to the porous nature of it) and then the compressor fan failed about a month ago. So two warranty issues in less than a year. It does cool well but is somewhat noisy compared to my Rheem unit that I still have for 2nd floor. Now looking to replace my Rheem unit due to age but probably going to spend the extra and go Trane... |
| 4SCU16LT 16 SEER$3,850Los Angeles, CA2100 sqft |
| I bought this new unit to replace one I had for 20 years. The main reason I replaced it was because of efficiency issues plus difficulty in finding parts. This Armstrong I bought works well though. I haven’t had any trouble with it for the ten months I’ve had it. Good ac with great functionality. |
| Armstrong 4SCU13LE$1,109 unit onlySanta Rosa, CA2670 sqft |
| Before I posted this I looked through the reviews and found that there are plenty of people who have had a bad experience with Armstrong. I’m glad I haven’t had to deal with any malfunctions. It’s been a year and a half now and so far the AC keeps the house cool and has great energy efficiency. |
| Armstrong 4SCU18LT 18 SEER$3,500 installedSpringfield, IL2800 sqft |
| 2 years and nothing is the problem. If only every other manufacturer made such reliable equipment. The Armstrong AC I bought 2 years ago hasn’t had any problems apart from a Freon leak that was fixed under the warranty. I’m looking forward to many more years with this unit. |
| 15 SEER$3,020 installedWestville, IN2450 sqft |
| Moving to a new place is expensive, especially if you have lots of repairs to take care of. For me, the worst thing is moving in and having to bear with the scorching heat just because the ac doesn’t work. When we moved in here the ac was one of the first things I made sure were functioning. I replaced the old Carrier I found with an Armstrong unit. So far I can’t complain about its functionality. The unit cools the house so well and isn’t one bit noisy. |
| 4AC13L 3 ton$3,990Alamo, TN2380 sqft |
| Armstrong is a quality brand. I say this because my neighbor has had a Trane and a Rheem in a span of 6 years. I think he got ripped off twice by two companies. My ac has been in service for the last two years and I haven’t spent a dime to fix it. It’s a good deal but you appreciate it more when all you read online is about bad experiences and disgruntled customers. Hurray for Armstrong, I strongly suggest you check them out before your AC or replace an old one. |
| Armstrong 4AC13L 5 ton$5,690Aiken, SC2900 sqft |
| Everything works fine but the system is too noisy. It makes this loud bang when it starts that you would think something exploded in the backyard. I’ve had the problem looked at a few times but no one seems to know what to do. If I could have this fixed then everything would be okay. |
| 4SCU13LE$4749St. Louise, MO2300 sqft |
| I am almost at the end of my tether with this system. If it breaks down again and I have to spend money fixing it I will dump it into the bottom of the river. Why is it that the filters keep getting blocked? It couldn’t be anything but poor design because this just doesn’t add up. Don’t be fooled by flashy advertising, Armstrong is not what it used to be anymore. |
How to Get the Best Armstrong Air Conditioner Prices?
Firstly, When you looking for the best deals for Armstrong AC, keep in mind that installation quality is always the most important thing for residential HVAC project.
- So never sacrifice contractor quality for lower price.
- Secondly, remember to look up the latest tax credit and rebates as we talked above.
- 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.
I had my Armstrong A/C and furnace installed 21 years ago and have not needed to have the system repaired ever.
like to have a reviews on this model# 4shp14lb136p-7
I am satisfied with the cooling and mechanical workings of my new Model #4SCU13LB124P, but the one thing I required was that it not be loud at the site of the unit. I am really disappointed in how loud it is. It is on the patio and makes it unpleasant to be outside while it is running. I am sure my neighbors are aware of it.