Coleman has a great reputation when it comes to the best central air conditioners.
Its units have SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings of around 16.4, which is average but still much better than the ratings on older generations of air conditioners. Some Coleman models, such as those in the Echelon series, have SEER ratings of up to 20. These systems also run very quietly.
In general, Coleman AC units create about 70.2 decibels of noise, which makes Coleman the third quietest brand we looked at, behind American Standard and Trane. Central air units are notoriously noisy, so this is a major benefit if outdoor noises bother you when you sleep. The company’s WhisperDrive system features a swept-wing fan design, a separate and insulated compressor compartment, and a specialized base pan to keep noise down.
Coleman’s AC units are generally more affordable than those made by other brands, but there are cheaper models out there. However, Coleman’s central air conditioners are typically more efficient than those lower-cost models, which makes them dramatically less expensive to run – a cheaper air conditioner can save you money on the initial purchase, but it could cost you in the long run.
In fact, Coleman’s central air conditioners are among the best for saving you money on energy bills over time. They are also durable and built to last a long time, with powder-painted steel and slotted inlet coil guards that protect the inner components from the elements.
This manufacturer offers excellent customer support and has an informational website. It also provides a decent warranty – 10 years on the compressor and 10 years on other parts. Some Coleman units, such as those in the Echelon series, have lifetime warranties. Still, 10 years is very respectable. However, this warranty is contingent on registering your unit, which you have 90 days after installation to do – this is a month longer than most companies allow. Unregistered units only carry a five-year warranty.
There are air conditioners on the market that have higher SEER ratings and run a little quieter than Coleman’s units but not by much. The company’s central AC units are competitive with top brands and can make your home more comfortable, as well as save you money on energy bills for years to come.
Contributing Reviewer: Grant Morgan
