6 Best Central Air Conditioning Units 2025 in the United States

The Goodman 3 Ton 14 SEER R410A Air Conditioner Split System is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable central air conditioning unit. With a cooling capacity of 36,000 BTU, it is well-suited for medium to large homes up to 2,100 square feet. This unit operates with a 14 SEER rating, making it reasonably energy efficient, though not the highest in the market.

It uses R-410A refrigerant, which is more environmentally friendly compared to older refrigerants. The noise level of 56 dB is relatively quiet, ensuring minimal disruption in your home environment. The unit's compressor and air handler are designed for durability.

The product dimensions are quite large, so make sure you have sufficient space for installation. This air conditioner might not be for those seeking the highest efficiency ratings or the smallest footprint, but it offers a good balance of performance, reliability, and environmental consideration.

The Goodman 3 Ton 14 SEER Package Air Conditioner GPC1436H41 offers a solid cooling capacity of 36,000 BTU, which is appropriate for medium to large spaces. Its SEER rating of 14 indicates moderate energy efficiency, suitable for reducing electricity bills but not the most advanced in the market. The unit operates on corded electric power and uses R-410A refrigerant.

While the noise level isn't specified, Goodman products usually maintain an acceptable range, suitable for residential use without significant disturbance. The unit includes a full parts warranty, contingent on professional installation, but does not cover labor or refrigerant costs, which is something to consider for long-term maintenance expenses. Being discontinued may affect availability for purchase and future support or part replacements, which could be a potential drawback.

Another point to note is its considerable weight (315 pounds) and large dimensions, making it a hefty installation which might require professional help for setup. Despite these factors, the unit is reliable, but because it's no longer manufactured, potential buyers should weigh the pros and cons regarding availability and support before making a decision.

The Goodman 4 TON 13.4 SEER2 R-32 AC Condenser offers a solid cooling capacity suitable for medium to larger homes, delivering 4 tons of cooling power. Its SEER2 rating of 13.4 indicates moderate energy efficiency, meaning it will use more electricity compared to higher-rated units but still meets basic efficiency standards. This model uses the newer R-32 refrigerant, which is more environmentally friendly than older types, a nice feature for reducing carbon footprint.

This unit is a standalone condenser, so pairing it with a compatible air handler is necessary. Due to updated Department of Energy regulations, this unit cannot be sold in many states with strict energy codes, which limits its availability in those areas.

If you live in a state where this unit is permitted and need an affordable, basic central AC condenser with decent cooling for a mid-sized space, Goodman’s model could be a practical choice. Be sure to confirm compatibility with your existing air handler and consider whether quieter or more energy-efficient options might better suit your needs.