When it comes time to replace your old, worn-out air conditioner, choosing the right brand and model can be overwhelming. Two of the biggest names in the HVAC industry are Payne and Carrier, but which one is better for your home?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Payne and Carrier air conditioners to help you decide which brand is right for you. We’ll look at reliability, features, warranties, prices, and real customer reviews so you can make an informed decision.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Payne | Carrier |
|---|---|
| More budget-friendly pricing | Premium pricing |
| Focus on basic reliable cooling | Packed with tech features |
| SEER range from 13 to 16 | SEER range from 13 to 21 |
| Good for cost-conscious buyers | Good for those wanting best-in-class AC |
| Made by Carrier Corporation | Carrier’s own premium brand |
| Standard warranties | Lifetime warranties on some models |
| Quiet and efficient | Very quiet and very efficient |
| Coils resistant to corrosion | WeatherShieldTM cabinet protection |
| Compatible with Smart Comfort app | Compatible with CôrTM smart home system |
As you can see, Payne and Carrier each have their own strengths and benefits. Payne offers reliable performance at more affordable pricing. Carrier delivers premium features and maximum efficiency at a higher cost.
Payne is ideal for homeowners who want a dependable AC unit at a competitive price point.
It’s a great option if you’re sticking to a strict HVAC replacement budget.
Carrier is perfect for those willing to pay more upfront for the latest technology, premium materials, higher SEER ratings and advanced features.
If you want best-in-class cooling performance, Carrier is hard to beat.
When choosing, consider how long you plan to stay in the home. A Payne unit may make more sense for a starter home, while a Carrier may be better for your “forever home”. Carrier’s lifetime warranty on compressor and coils can add major long-term value.
It’s also smart to have an HVAC pro assess your home’s needs. They can determine the appropriate AC size and evaluate ductwork to help you select the ideal air conditioner. Doing HVAC system sizing correctly is key to getting peak performance.
Payne Air Conditioners
Payne is a brand from Carrier Corporation, a subsidiary of United Technologies. Carrier is the world’s largest manufacturer of HVAC systems, so Payne has the backing of a major industry player.
Payne air conditioners are designed to be affordable and efficient. They focus more on practical functionality rather than fancy features. Payne’s goal is to offer reliable air conditioning systems that provide long-lasting comfort without breaking the bank.
Some of the key features of Payne air conditioners include:
- Durability: Payne systems are designed to withstand extreme weather and provide years of reliable cooling. They use galvanized steel cabinets and heavy-duty components.
- Efficiency: Payne’s AC units aim to provide efficient cooling without sky-high energy bills. Their units have SEER ratings from 13 to 16 SEER, helping homeowners save on energy costs.
- Coils: Payne uses aluminum alloy coils that are corrosion resistant. The coils have rippled edges for maximum surface area and heat transfer.
- Compressors: Payne uses single and two-stage scroll compressors on most AC units. Scroll compressors run smoothly and require less maintenance.
- Warranties: Payne units come with 10 year parts and compressor warranties. This gives homeowners peace of mind with the product’s reliability.
- Smart Comfort: Select Payne models are compatible with Carrier’s smartphone app, allowing you to monitor and control your AC from anywhere.
Payne offers air conditioners in a range of configurations to suit any home, from 13 SEER builder-grade units to 16 SEER premium models. Overall, Payne units provide reliable, efficient cooling at affordable prices.
Carrier Air Conditioners
Carrier is one of the oldest and most recognized names in the air conditioning industry. They pioneered modern AC technology over 100 years ago. Today, Carrier continues to be an HVAC innovation leader.
Carrier AC units run the gamut from builder-grade to premium systems packed with high-end features. Here are some of Carrier’s key technologies and highlights:
- Efficiency: Carrier offers AC units with SEER ratings from 13 to 21 SEER. Their highest efficiency models can help homeowners save significantly on energy costs.
- Durability: Carrier’s WeatherShieldTM and galvanized steel cabinets protect the units from corrosion and extreme weather. Their compressor sound blankets also reduce noise.
- Controls: Carrier’sInfinity® system allows comprehensive control of the AC via WiFi, custom schedules, precision temperature settings and more.
- Filtration: Models like the Infinity® air purifier can remove up to 99% of allergens from conditioned air for better indoor air quality.
- Humidity Control: Carrier’sInfinity® variable-speed systems carefully monitor and adjust humidity levels to keep you cooler.
- Smart Technology: Carrier AC units can integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, Nest and more through the CôrTM smart home system.
- Warranties: Carrier offers warranties from 10 years up to lifetime limited on premium models. This shows their confidence in the products.
While Carrier units range widely in price and features, they consistently deliver very reliable, energy efficient cooling for homes. You definitely pay more for the Carrier name, but the performance often justifies the higher cost.
Key Differences Between Payne And Carrier AC
- Reliability
Reliability is arguably the most important factor for any air conditioning unit. No one wants an AC that constantly breaks down or needs repairs. How do Payne and Carrier compare when it comes to reliability?
Both brands build durable units that can last over 15 years when properly maintained.
Galvanized steel cabinets protect the components from moisture and corrosion.
The use of scroll compressors also boosts longevity for both Payne and Carrier.
Payne offers solid mid-range reliability.
Parts like coils and fan motors may wear out earlier than premium units, but overall Payne ACs provide dependable cooling for their price point.
Carrier is consistently rated as one of the most reliable AC brands on the market. Their WeatherShieldTM protection, stringent quality testing and high-end parts like DuracellTM capacitors give their units outstanding longevity. It’s not uncommon to see Carrier ACs last over 20 years.
If squeezing every last year out of your air conditioner is your priority, then Carrier’s proven reliability is hard to pass up. But Payne still offers respectable durability if replacing an AC sooner rather than later is acceptable to you.
- Customer Reviews
Don’t just take our word for it – here’s what actual homeowners are saying about Payne and Carrier air conditioners:
Payne Customer Reviews
“We installed a two-stage Payne AC unit last year before summer. The local HVAC company did not try to oversell us, and we’ve been very happy with the Payne unit. It keeps our suburban home nice and cool, even on hot 95 degree days. No issues.” – Jack in Florida
“We upgraded to a 16 SEER Payne AC unit. Our summer energy bills dropped by over $75 per month compared to our old unit! My wife loves the Smart Comfort app too. The Payne AC does everything we need at a fair price.”– Dan in South Carolina
“The lifetime warranty on the compressor sold me on upgrading to a premium Payne AC unit. I know I paid a few hundred more upfront but not having to worry about pricey compressor repairs down the road gives me peace of mind. So far it’s been whisper quiet too.” – Sara in Georgia
Carrier Customer Reviews
“Had a Carrier Infinity series AC installed last month. The variable speed blower and two-stage compressor keep the temperature so consistent in our home. Worth the investment for the energy savings and advanced filtration. Never going back to single stage units.” – Ryan in California
“We upgraded to the top-of-the-line Carrier AC with WiFi control. The custom scheduling and tracking of our home’s humidity levels is awesome. It was expensive but you get what you pay for. Carrier technology is in a league of its own.” – Jessica in Texas
“Carrier installed my AC and furnace back in 2012. Almost 10 years later, the system is still running beautifully with no major repairs needed. The lifetime warranty gives me the assurance that if anything does break, Carrier will take care of it.” – Travis in Arizona
Based on real-world feedback, both Payne and Carrier customers report being very satisfied overall with these AC brands. Payne buyers are happy with the performance, reliability and fair pricing. Carrier buyers rave about the advanced features, energy efficiency and warranty support.
- Pricing
Pricing is often a key factor when choosing between AC brands and models. Payne units are typically 15-20% cheaper than comparable Carrier units.
For example, a 14 SEER single stage Payne AC may cost around $3,500 fully installed. A comparable 14 SEER Carrier unit could run over $4,000. Stepping up to two stage 16 SEER units, Payne starts around $4,500 while Carrier would be upwards of $5,500.
Carrier units come with a premium price tag because they pack in more features and advanced technologies. Carrier also invests heavily in R&D and rigorous testing to build what many consider the industry’s finest air conditioners.
Payne pricing stays competitive for what the units offer. While not loaded with bells and whistles, Payne systems still provide reliable cooling and efficiency. Payne gives you good basic value without breaking your AC replacement budget.
Keep in mind that final installed pricing depends on more than just the base AC unit cost. Factors like brand availability in your area, contractor markup, system sizing, ductwork needs, and any rebates or special offers also impact the final quote. Be sure to get multiple quotes before deciding.
- SEER Ratings
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER measures how efficiently an AC unit cools your home. The higher the SEER, the less electricity required for cooling.
Payne offers AC units ranging from 13 SEER (builder-grade) up to 16 SEER (premium). These ratings provide a good balance of energy savings without the ultra-high SEER cost.
Carrier takes SEER even further with their highest efficiency models rated up to 21 SEER. A 21 SEER Carrier AC can potentially reduce your cooling energy usage by up to 50% compared to typical units. However, these maximum SEER units come at a steep price.
In warmer climates especially, investing in a higher efficiency AC often pays for itself over time in electricity savings. Doing an AC sizing calculation and duct assessment can help determine the ideal SEER for your climate and home.
Many homeowners find good value and energy savings with mid-range SEER units from 14 to 16 SEER. This provides a nice balance of efficiency and affordable pricing to potentially save you 20-30% off cooling bills.
- Warranties
The warranty coverage on an AC unit provides crucial protection against defects and breakdowns. Let’s examine Payne and Carrier warranties:
Payne AC Warranties
- Compressor: 10 years
- Parts: 10 years
Carrier AC Warranties
- Compressor: 10 years (up to lifetime on some models)
- Parts: 10 years
- Lifetime heat exchanger (Infinity® models)
Payne offers solid coverage to protect your investment, including a 10 year compressor warranty across all models.
This ensures the compressor will be covered for the expected lifespan of the AC.
Carrier has comparable 10 year compressor and parts coverage for base models.
But premium Carrier AC units step up the warranty game with lifetime limited compressor and heat exchanger coverage.
This demonstrates Carrier’s faith in their highest end products going the distance.
No matter which brand you choose, inspecting the warranties closely is advised. Make sure you understand what’s covered and any limitations that apply. And be sure to register your AC warranty within 30 days of installation.
Which Brand Is Best For You? Payne Or Carrier?
Now for the big question: based on these comparisons, which brand – Payne or Carrier – is better for your home?
Here are a few key questions to ask yourself when deciding:
- What is your budget for a new AC system? Payne offers good value at lower price points.
- How important is energy efficiency and advanced technology to you? Carrier edges out Payne in these areas.
- What warranty length do you want on key components like the compressor? Carrier has lifetime options.
- Do you want basic reliable cooling or the best AC performance no matter the cost? Payne vs Carrier comes down to practicality vs premium experience.
- How long will you stay in the home? Lifetime warranties offer more long-term benefit.
- What do local HVAC contractors recommend for your specific needs? Get professional advice for your situation.
Answering questions like these will steer you towards the right brand. Payne makes sense if you want an affordable, reliably cooling AC. Carrier is the way to go if top-tier energy efficiency, features and warranties warrant the investment.
Either way, replacing your air conditioner with a properly sized, high-quality unit is one of the best home upgrades you can make for comfort and energy savings. Investing in a great AC unit will pay dividends for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Carrier is considered the premium brand overall, with higher efficiency, more technology features, and longer warranties on some models. However, Payne provides reliable, efficient ACs at a more budget-friendly price point. Payne is basically a “mid-range” version of Carrier at 15-20% lower cost.
Yes, Payne air conditioners are a quality product. They provide durable, efficient cooling for homes at reasonable prices. Payne units lack some of the bells and whistles of premium brands but offer solid basic performance from a trusted manufacturer. Many homeowners are happy with their Payne ACs.
Carrier is consistently rated as one of the top air conditioner brands in the industry. They offer some of the most efficient and advanced technology units available. While not cheap, Carrier ACs deliver excellent cooling capacity, longevity, features and warranties. The innovation of Carrier is best-in-class for those wanting an elite AC.
For total luxury performance, Carrier’s Infinity® and Infinity® 24 VS lines take the crown for top of the line residential central air conditioners. These Carrier ACs feature ultra high efficiency up to 21 SEER, CôrTM smart technology, superior humidity control, premium warranties, and every bell and whistle. The price tag is steep, but these units deliver best-in-class cooling.
Closing Remarks
When it’s time to replace your home’s air conditioner, Payne and Carrier both offer quality options. Payne provides affordable, reliable cooling systems that get the job done. Carrier is the premium brand for those wanting best-in-class efficiency, features and technology.
Carefully weighing the pros and cons of each brand is key. Consider your budget needs, energy efficiency goals, desired features, warranty terms, and professional advice. This will steer you towards finding the ideal AC system for your home’s comfort and needs.
With proper installation, maintenance and care, both Payne and Carrier air conditioners can provide cooling comfort for over 15 years. Investing in the right AC unit will keep your home cool for years to come.