Carrier air conditioner cost
A Carrier central air conditioner costs $3,000 to $8,000 installed in the Comfort series, $5,000 to $10,000 in the Performance series and $8,000 to $15,000+ for the variable-speed Infinity line.
Quick answer
$3,000 – $15,000+installed, Comfort to Infinity
Most Carrier installs cost $3,000 to $10,000. The top Infinity variable-speed systems reach $15,000 or more.
Price by series
| Series | Installed | Compressor | SEER2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort | $3,000 – $8,000 | Single-stage | Up to 16.5 |
| Performance | $5,000 – $10,000 | Single or two-stage | 16.5 – 19.0 |
| Infinity | $8,000 – $15,000+ | Variable-speed | 19.0 – 24.0 |
Price by size
| Size | Home size (sq ft) | Installed |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 tons | 600 – 900 | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| 2 tons | 900 – 1,200 | $3,500 – $5,300 |
| 2.5 tons | 1,200 – 1,500 | $4,000 – $5,500 |
| 3 tons | 1,500 – 1,800 | $5,000 – $6,000 |
| 3.5 tons | 1,800 – 2,100 | $5,500 – $7,000 |
| 4 tons | 2,100 – 2,400 | $6,000 – $9,000 |
| 5 tons | 2,400 – 3,000 | $7,500 – $15,000+ |
Carrier vs. its sister brands
Bryant, Payne and Heil are built by the same company. Bryant central ACs cost about $2,300 to $7,000 installed, often for similar equipment. Carrier ductless systems run $2,000 to $10,500 and Carrier geothermal $12,000 to $45,000.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Carrier AC unit cost installed?
About $3,000 to $8,000 for the Comfort series and $5,000 to $10,000 for Performance; Infinity systems reach $15,000+.
How much is a 3-ton Carrier AC?
About $5,000 to $6,000 installed for a standard-efficiency 3-ton Carrier unit.
Is Bryant the same as Carrier?
Bryant is a sister brand made by the same company, often with similar equipment at a lower price.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.