York Air Conditioner Review & Buying Guide

Your complete York air conditioner buying guide, including top models, prices, SEER ratings, features, warranty info, and more.

This brand review will help you decide if a York air conditioner is right for your home, and what model might best suit your needs.

It will compare all York’s current air conditioner tiers and models, discuss what their special features really are, talk about how York’s warranty stands up to the competition, and more. And don’t forget to do the quiz to find out what air conditioner is right for you!

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Older air conditioners tend to be less efficient and might not operate at peak performance, so upgrading to a new cooling system can save you money and keep your family more comfortable. If you’re looking at replacing an older unit with a York air conditioner, then this guide will help you choose the right model for your home.

This York air conditioner brand review includes information about the different models that are available, explains exclusive York features, compares the various models, provides efficiency ratings, and more.

Also Read: The Best Central Air Conditioners for Canadians

The Bottom Line

A York air conditioner might be the perfect cooling solution for your home if you’re looking for a basic model that’s economical but that doesn’t offer a lot of extras.

York products are affordable, reliable, long-lasting, easy to install, and backed by a good warranty, so you can upgrade to a better cooling system without having to pay a lot.

You will have to choose wisely if you want a high-efficiency model with ENERGY STAR certification, especially if it needs to cool a larger home.

York doesn’t have a huge selection of two-stage or variable-speed models, but they do have several air conditioners with high-efficiency SEERs, and their premium models have some great selling features, design elements, and warranty coverage.

Plus, they’ll still be more affordable than the air conditioners from mid-range and premium brands, and York’s high-efficiency models will reduce summer cooling costs compared to older systems.

York Customer Reviews

 

➤ Get the BEST Prices on York air conditioners: Fill out a free quote request here.

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York Air Conditioner Model Series Overview

 

Value Tier – LX Economy Series

Like some other air conditioner brands, York has pared down their product offering and gone from a three-tier to a two-tier model line that includes their value and premium models.

York’s most affordable value-tier air conditioners are the LX Series models. Most of these are single-stage, but one has a more advanced two-stage compressor. The models in this tier have mid- and high-efficiency SEER ratings ranging from 13 to 18.5, and two of them have ENERGY STAR certification.

The models in this tier don’t have any special technologies, but they do have some desirable features, including microchannel coils, the QuietDrive system for quieter operation, and industry-standard warranty coverage.

Finally, the LX models are compact and ideal for zero-lot-line homes and small spaces. Some of the models are even stackable, so you can install multiple units for additional cooling power without taking up a larger footprint.

Premium – Affinity Series

York’s premium line of air conditioners is the Affinity series, and these models have two-stage or variable-speed compressors for the ultimate in temperature control and maintenance.

There isn't a lot of selection here, but the models are high-efficiency and ENERGY STAR certified, so they’ll drastically reduce energy bills compared to older models, and they're likely to qualify for cost-saving rebates.

Affinity models are equipped with some or all of York’s premium features, depending on the specific model. Those features include the QuietDrive Comfort System for quiet operation, Charge Assurance for easy installation, and Climate Set and ClimaTrak technology to ensure the perfect indoor air temperature, no matter what climate you live in. These models also come with a better warranty than the value-tier models.

One thing to know about the Affinity air conditioners is that they have higher SEERs than what's normally needed in Canada, so they may cost more than the high-efficiency value models, but they won’t deliver substantially larger energy savings in the long run.

However, if you want a more advanced variable-speed air conditioner from York, then the Affinity tier is the only place you'll find one.

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Model Breakdown and Comparison

What are Warranty and Overall Grades? These grades are calculated using FurnacePrices.ca's own proprietary algorithm which weighs a range of criteria to generate an easy-to-compare score.

Warranty Grades take into account several warranty terms & exclusions found in the fine print to make it easier for ordinary homeowners to compare warranty coverage without having to tediously dig through dense warranty documents.

Overall Grades weigh general factors like efficiency and features, as well as the warranty grade. Note that a model with a low grade is not necessarily a bad choice (more affordable models will usually always score lower). The grades are meant more to make it easier to compare the relative strength of different models. A high end model will score better but also cost a lot more and not necessarily be the ideal option for everyone, just like a sports car will score higher than a minivan in many aspects but isn't necessarily the ideal choice for the average family (despite what your significant other may try to argue!)

 

Affinity YXV

Read Full York Affinity YXV Review

The Affinity YXV is York’s premium offering. This variable-speed air conditioner is ENERGY STAR certified, has a SEER of 21, and is among the quietest air conditioners on the market. It also has York’s Climate Set technology, is equipped with the QuietDrive system, comes with Charge Assurance for fast installation and maintenance, and is backed by an excellent warranty. However, air conditioners with SEERs above 18 are generally meant for hotter and longer summers than what we experience in Canada. They cost a lot more but won’t return proportional energy savings, so you might actually be better off with a less efficient air conditioner in the 16- to 18-SEER range, especially if you don’t have a huge budget. At the same time, this model will in fact reduce energy bills drastically compared to a standard- or mid-efficiency air conditioner, and it should qualify for any rebate.

• Compressor: Variable-speed scroll
• SEER: Up to 21
• ENERGY STAR certified: Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 53
• Tier: Premium
• Ideal for: Homes in places that experience long, hot summers or extended periods of humidity, especially if you have a large home. This is York’s only variable-speed air conditioner, but the high SEER of 21 is more powerful than you'll probably need in Canada, and the energy savings it will produce won’t really exceed what you could get with one of York’s high-efficiency single- or two-stage models.

 

Affinity YXT

Read Full York Affinity YXT Review

York’s other premium model, the Affinity YXT, is a high-efficiency two-stage air conditioner that offers advanced temperature control, quiet performance, and a great warranty. This model is equipped with the QuietDrive system, and it can be paired with a traditional control or the advanced Wi-Fi enabled and programmable Hx3 touchscreen thermostat. It also has the ClimaTrak technology that allows for a customizable climate setting.

The YXT does have a slightly higher SEER than what most Canadians need to stay cool in summer, so it will cost more than a 16- to 18-SEER model and will only generate marginally higher energy savings. However, it’s likely to qualify for high-efficiency rebates that could offset the additional cost. If you have the budget and want a high-efficiency air conditioner with some great additional features and design elements, then the YXT will provide consistent cooling and will drastically reduce energy bills compared to a standard- or mid-efficiency air conditioner.

• Compressor: Two-stage
• SEER: Up to 19.75
• ENERGY STAR certified: Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 67
• Tier: Premium
• Ideal for: Large homes with high cooling demands that need a powerful and effective air conditioner that will still keep you comfortable through heat waves and humidity. The YXT’s two-stage compressor delivers quiet, consistent, and efficient cooling. This model may be more powerful than you need, but it offers some great features, will reduce summer cooling costs, and will probably qualify for rebates.

 

LX Series YFK

Read Full York LX Series YFK Review

This high-efficiency two-stage air conditioner is one of York’s value-tier cooling systems, but it has a lot to offer. Because of the two-stage compressor, it promises more even temperature control and better humidity management than its single-stage counterparts.

It has a SEER rating of 17.5, meaning you’ll spend less every month keeping your home comfortable. This air conditioner is powerful and efficient enough for just about any home, and it’s in the ideal SEER range for keeping Canadian homes cool in the summer. Even if you live somewhere with high humidity or long heat waves, the YFK is still going to keep your home at the right temperature.

It doesn’t have any special features, but it is compatible with York’s Hx and Hx3 thermostats that can give you remote access to your comfort settings. Finally, the YFK is already more affordable because it’s a York, but it’s also likely to qualify for rebates.

• Compressor: Two-stage
• SEER: Up to 17.5
• ENERGY STAR certified: Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 70
• Tier: Value
• Ideal for: Anybody who wants an affordable high-efficiency air conditioner that doesn’t have any bells and whistles, but that does have a powerful two-stage compressor and a good warranty. The YFK delivers even, efficient cooling power, it will cut summer cooling bills, and it will qualify for most rebates.

 

LX Series YCG

Read Full York LX Series YCG Review

The LX Series YCG is a single-stage air conditioner with a high-efficiency SEER rating of 18.5 and ENERGY STAR certification. It ranks a little higher than the 16- to 18-SEER range that’s great for Canadian summers, so it will be powerful enough to cool many homes. You’ll also save more money on your energy bills, and the model will probably qualify for certain utility or high-efficiency rebates. This unit has a smaller footprint thanks to the microchannel coil, which also increases heat transfer, and it has some features to reduce noise, like a swept-wing fan with a direct-drive system. Despite being a somewhat basic single-stage air conditioner, the YCG will be one of the most economical high-efficiency models on the market, and it’s going to yield long-term savings.

• Compressor: Single-stage scroll
• SEER: Up to 18.5
• ENERGY STAR certified: Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 72
• Tier: Value
• Ideal for: Anybody who wants to reduce their summer cooling bills without having to spend an arm and a leg on a high-efficiency air conditioner. The YCG has a single-stage scroll compressor with an impressive SEER of 18.5 that’s perfect for Canada. It’s a value-tier model from York with a high SEER but without any extra tech or features, so it will be cost-effective to buy and operate over the years.

 

YC2E

Read Full York YC2E Review

This is another single-stage air conditioner from York’s value tier, and it’s very similar to their other entry-level models. It has a scroll compressor and microchannel coil technology for improved efficiency and a compact size. The 16.5 SEER rating is ideal for Canadian summers, and this model will be cost-effective to buy and operate over the years. While the YC2E will help to reduce energy bills, it may not qualify for some rebates because it lacks energy star certification. Like York’s other value-tier models, it has a number of features to protect the unit and ensure lasting operation. It also comes backed by York’s standard warranty, and it has been optimized to comply with energy efficiency regulations mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy.

• Compressor: Single-stage scroll
• SEER: Up to 16.5
• ENERGY STAR certified: No
• Decibel rating: As low as 73
• Tier: Value
• Ideal for: Small or medium homes that don’t need an overly powerful air conditioner, but that need an efficient and affordable cooling system that will reduce energy bills compared to a standard- or mid-efficiency model. The YC2E doesn’t have any novel technologies, but the SEER is ideal for Canada and the cabinet and components have been designed to provide many years of cooling comfort.

 

LX Series YCD

Read Full York LX Series YCD Review

The YCD is a single-stage model with a mid-efficiency SEER that’s almost in the range that’s usually best for Canada. However, it might still be better suited for homes with lower cooling demands. This model has all the same perks as York’s other value-tier models, including microchannel coil technology that reduces size requirements and increases heat transfer, a good warranty, a compact size, powder coat paint to protect the cabinet, and a coil guard. The YCD may not qualify for high-efficiency rebates, but it will be economical and will reduce summer cooling costs compared to a standard-efficiency air conditioner.

• Compressor: Single-stage scroll
• SEER: Up to 15
• ENERGY STAR certified: No
• Decibel rating: As low as 74
• Tier: Value
• Ideal for: Homeowners who want an affordable mid-efficiency air conditioner that isn't overly powerful. The YCD will be efficient enough for most smaller homes, and it’s still going to save you money if you're replacing an older model with a standard-efficiency SEER. The compact size also means this model is great for tight spaces, and you can stack multiple units if you need more cooling power.

 

LX Series TCHE

Read Full York LX Series TCHE Review

The TCHE is a single-stage air conditioner from York’s value tier, and it has a mid-efficiency SEER of 14. When paired with a variable-speed indoor blower, however, certain sizes can achieve a SEER as high as 16. Because of the single-stage operation and lower SEER, this model will likely be best suited for smaller spaces, such as condos, apartments, or small homes. Places like this typically have lower cooling demands, and sometimes they also have less outdoor space as well. That’s no problem for the TCHE, which has a compact design that’s ideal for tight fits, including on balconies, under decks, and in zero-lot-line applications. This model will be relatively affordable, but it won’t cut your cooling costs as much as a high-efficiency model, and it may not qualify for some rebates.

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 14 (up to 16 when paired with a variable-speed blower)
• ENERGY STAR certified: No
• Decibel rating: As low as 70
• Tier: Value
• Ideal for: Smaller homes, condos, apartments, and other spaces with lower cooling demands, as well as zero-lot-line properties. The TCHE is a basic single-stage model with a mid-efficiency SEER, but the slim, compact cabinet is perfect for applications where there's not a lot of extra space to work with and where a standard air conditioner won’t fit.

 

LX Series TCHD

Read Full York LX Series TCHD Review

The TCHD is another mid-efficiency air conditioner from York’s value tier. It has a single-stage compressor and a SEER of 13. Like the TCHE, some sizes can achieve a SEER up to 16 when paired with a variable-speed indoor blower. This model has the lowest SEER that’s allowed in Canada, so it will work better in places with lower cooling demands, but be warned that it’s not going to produce the energy savings that a high-efficiency model would. The appealing features of this model include the microchannel coils, the compact size that’s great for tight spaces and zero-lot-line applications, the QuietDrive system that reduces noise, the scroll compressor, and the better-than-average warranty.

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 13 (up to 16 when paired with a variable-speed blower)
• ENERGY STAR certified: No
• Decibel rating: As low as 70
• Tier: Value
• Ideal for: Small spaces and homes with low cooling demands that don’t need a high-efficiency air conditioner with a lot of power. The TCHD is great for homeowners on a budget, especially if you don’t have a lot of room and need a compact air conditioner that won’t take up too much space. This model will be affordable to buy, but it probably won’t qualify for rebates or reduce energy costs as much as a 16- to 18-SEER model would.

 

York’s Quietest and Noisiest Air Conditioners

Have you ever been falling asleep on a peaceful summer night only to be rudely awoken by the sound of your air conditioner kicking on? Or maybe you’ve been sitting outside on a quiet day and been interrupted by the incessant hum of neighbourhood air conditioners?

Most HVAC manufacturers know this pain, and they’ve been taking steps to make their air conditioners quieter and less disruptive. York is one such brand, and they have several design features to reduce operational noise.

All of their air conditioners come with things like direct-drive fans that are quieter than traditional fans, but the QuietDrive system that’s available with a few of their models is the feature that really succeeds in this area.

The York air conditioners that have this feature are very quiet, but the one that takes the cake is their top-of-the-line A/C. With this model, the QuietDrive system paired with the variable-speed compressor has produced one of the quietest air conditioners on the market. Here are York’s quietest air conditioners:

• The Affinity YXV has a decibel rating as low as 53
• The Affinity YXT has a decibel rating as low as 67

By comparison, their loudest model is the LX Series YCD, which has a decibel rating as low as 74. To give you an idea of what all this means, 50 decibels is about the same noise level as a quiet office, 60 decibels is equivalent to a normal conversation, and 70 is the sound level of a vacuum cleaner.

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Exclusive Features from York

 

QuietDrive Comfort System

How York describes it: QuietDrive is a special system that’s designed to reduce noise made by the air conditioner.

What it is in plain language: The QuietDrive system includes two main design elements: a swept-wing fan and a composite base. Swept-wing fans are quieter than traditional fans and the composite base reduces vibrations, so overall, air conditioners with the QuietDrive system are quieter than ones without it.

Is it more than just hype? The two components that make up this feature really are successful at reducing noise, and the air conditioners that have these design elements are quieter than others. In fact, York’s top-of-the-line Affinity YXV is one of the quietest air conditioners available.

That said, there are many brands that have their own design features and special systems to reduce noise. Further, many of them have models with similar sound performance in the 55 to 57 decibel range.

A few of those brands include Lennox, Napoleon, Goodman, Daikin, and Carrier. In fact, Carrier’s Silencer System II has produced an air conditioner that’s even quieter than York’s, with a decibel rating as low as 51.

Charge Assurance

How York describes it: An innovative technology that’s built in to make installation faster and more accurate. It also guarantees that your unit is installed properly. After installation, the system facilitates maintenance by allowing technicians to check refrigerant levels quickly and precisely.

What it is in plain language: Charge Assurance is a five-inch screen that’s built into York’s Affinity YXV models. The screen allows technicians to access important system information that makes installation and maintenance easier.

The display gives technicians access to refrigerant levels, system pressure, line temperatures, and more, and all without them having to connect additional devices. That way, the HVAC specialist can easily make sure the system is functioning optimally simply by reading the information provided directly by the air conditioner.

Is it more than just hype? HVAC technicians who have used the Charge Assurance system agree that it makes their lives easier, and that it can make both installation and maintenance faster.

The labour costs associated with installation and service can account for a significant portion of what you'll pay to buy and run an air conditioner, so this feature could potentially save you money.

York may be one of the only HVAC brands that uses the Charge Assurance technology, but they're not the only one who has a feature like this.

For example, Coleman has something called Charge View and Luxaire has Charge Smart, both of which are built-in touchscreen displays that give technicians access to similar information as Charge Assurance.

ClimaTrak

How York describes it: Customized air conditioner performance that’s based on the climate where you live, whether it’s humid, dry, or temperate. ClimaTrak technology allows the installer to fine-tune the blower’s operation for your region.

What it is in plain language: ClimaTrak is a feature that enables an HVAC installer to choose a blower setting that will optimize moisture management depending on the climate where you live.

For example, if you live somewhere humid, they’ll choose the setting that will increase summer dehumidification. On the other hand, if you live in a dry climate, they’ll choose the setting that helps to maintain a comfortable moisture level in your home.

Is it more than just hype? Too much moisture in the air can force your air conditioner to work harder, and too little moisture can make your home feel uncomfortable. As such, proper moisture management can potentially save you money and make you more comfortable through the summer.

York is one of the few brands to offer something like the ClimaTrak technology, but it’s not actually unique to them because their sister brands also use it.

York is made by Johnson Controls, along with Luxaire and Coleman, and both of those brands also offer ClimaTrak technology with some of their air conditioners.

Microchannel Coils

How York describes it: A special aluminum alloy coil that improves efficiency and durability, giving you better performance in a smaller space.

What it is in plain language: The coil is the part of an air conditioner that absorbs heat from inside your home and transfers it outside. Microchannel coil technology is a special coil design that uses parallel aluminum tubes with aluminum fins sandwiched between them.

Is it more than just hype? The coil is one of the most important air conditioning components, and its performance will impact the overall efficiency of the system. Microchannel coils are more compact and lighter, which is why York air conditioners are smaller than standard units.

There are a number of other benefits to this type of coil, including that the microchannel design increases contact between the refrigerant and the metal. Not only does this improve heat transfer, but it also reduces the amount of refrigerant required.

Finally, this type of coil is typically more corrosion resistant, so a microchannel coil can have a longer life. Microchannel coils are definite plus, but York isn't the only brand with special coil designs. Lennox has the Quantum Coil, Trane and American Standard use something called the Spine Fin Coil, and Napoleon uses a similar component to York called the micro-channel condenser coil.

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Warranty Analysis

 

The warranty terms

York has a good warranty on their value-tier air conditioners and a great warranty for their premium models:

• All models come with a 10-year parts warranty
• Value-tier models come with an additional 10-year compressor warranty
• Premium-tier models come with an additional lifetime compressor warranty

York experimented with offering a labour warranty for a few years, but they’ve since removed this from their coverage. However, you might still find some older documentation that references the now-defunct labour warranty.

Registration is required

York wants customers to register newly installed air conditioners within 90 days of installation, and they encourage this by offering basic warranty terms and extended registered coverage. The warranty terms listed above are the longer registered terms.

Should you fail to register a York air conditioner during the 90-day window, you'll lose some coverage. Here's a breakdown of the warranty for unregistered models:

• All models come with a five-year parts warranty
• Value-tier models come with a five-year compressor warranty
• Premium-tier models come with a 10-year compressor warranty

Registration is quick and easy, and the additional coverage, especially for the premium models, could save you a lot of money over the years, so it’s definitely recommended.

You can register by phone or online. You'll have to provide York with your name and information, the name of the HVAC dealer, the air conditioner’s serial number, and the installation date.

Conditions and restrictions

All HVAC warranties come with conditions that explain things you'll have to do to keep the coverage intact, as well as things you could do that would void the warranty.

For example, most warranty conditions dictate that the air conditioner must be installed by a licensed HVAC professional, otherwise the warranty won’t apply. You'll want to read the terms carefully, but here are some other common conditions:

• You'll have to hire a licensed HVAC pro to do annual maintenance on the unit
• Document annual maintenance and repairs by keeping receipts
• When repairs are needed, only use manufacturer-approved parts
• Have repairs and service addressed promptly
• Don’t try to do a DIY installation or repairs
• Read the owner’s manual and use the air conditioner according to the instructions

 

How the York warranty measures up to the competition

The standard registered warranty for an air conditioner includes 10-years of parts coverage. That may include the compressor, but some brands, like York, offer separate 10-year warranties for the compressor.

In other words, the warranty that York offers for their value-tier models is a little better than the industry-standard because they have separate parts and compressor warranties.

However, the coverage they offer for premium models goes above and beyond. They aren't the only brand to offer lifetime compressor warranties, but there are definitely a lot more brands that don’t. For example, none of the premium brands—like Carrier, Lennox, and Trane—offer lifetime compressor warranties.

At the same time, there are other brands that have comparable coverage to York’s, at least for some of their models. Here are some examples:

• Goodman offers lifetime compressor warranties and unit replacement warranties
• Amana has lifetime unit replacement warranties
• American Standard has separate warranties for parts and the coil, on top of 12-year compressor warranties
• Daikin has 12-year parts and unit replacement warranties
• Trane and Lennox offer 12-year compressor warranties

Be a happy homeowner when you purchase a York air conditioner. Fill out our online form and ask for a free quote.

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Is a York Air Conditioner Right for Me?

 

What’s your budget like?

York is an economy brand, and their air conditioners are some of the most economical ones on the market. On average, a York air conditioner costs anywhere between $3,000 and $5,500+ to buy and install in Canada.

The final price will depend on the specific model you choose. Larger air conditioners cost more, as do ones with higher efficiency ratings. Value-tier models will be more affordable than the premium tier ones, but premium models have better warranties, higher SEERS, more features, and improved design elements.

Other economy brands in a similar price range to York include KeepRite, Goodman, Comfortmaker, and Tempstar.

However, if you have a larger budget and want to see what else is available, then you might want to look at popular mid-range brands like Daikin, Amana, and Napoleon, or higher-end brands like American Standard, Trane, Carrier, and Lennox.

Will you be there long enough to enjoy an expensive new high-efficiency air conditioner?

Although high-efficiency air conditioners with better warranties—such as York’s premium models—are more expensive, there can be long-term financial benefits to investing in such a model.

For one thing, a high-efficiency SEER between 16 and 18 will produce the best energy savings to cost ratio over time.

Similarly, a longer warranty could potentially save you a lot of money, especially if you need to replace an important component like the compressor.

However, getting a return on investment for an air conditioner takes time. You're not going to see enough energy savings in the first year to offset the cost of a high-efficiency unit, and chances are the unit won’t break down in the first few years.

That’s why you should invest wisely if you plan to move soon. An expensive high-efficiency air conditioner isn't going to increase the value of the home, and if you move, then you won’t get any return on investment.

If you don’t plan to stay in the same house for long, then it probably makes more sense to buy a lower-cost value-tier model from York.

Does York have the SEER rating you want?

York has a decent SEER range of 13 to 21. Chances are good that you'll be able to find something in their line, whether you're looking for an air conditioner with a mid, high or ultra-high SEER.

Just remember that air conditioners with SEERs between 16 and 18 are generally best for Canada, but York doesn’t actually have many models in that range. In fact, they only have two that fall into that exact range, though they have a couple more that come close.

For example, the air conditioners in their premium tier have SEERs of 19.75 and 21, so it’s possible their premium models might not be suitable for most Canadian homes.

Another thing to keep in mind, especially if you plan to apply for rebates, is that York’s selection of ENERGY STAR models is limited, particularly in the value tier. ENERGY STAR certification is usually a requirement of most rebates, so you'll have to consider York’s models carefully if you want to save money through rebates.

Ultimately, York probably has an air conditioner with the SEER rating you want, but they might not have a lot of models to choose from.

Does York have your dream features?

York hasn’t put a lot of time and effort into developing novel technologies or cool features. They have the ClimaTrak feature that’s relatively unique, but most of their special features are design elements that are quite common in the A/C industry.

That being said, if quiet operation is important, the QuietDrive system is very effective in their premium-tier models, though most of their value-tier models have standard sound performance.

Now, you may not be interested in novel features. In that case, York might be an ideal brand for you. At the same time, it’s good to know what else is out there so you can make an informed decision. Let’s have a look at a few examples that other brands offer:

• Carrier, Lennox, American Standard, Bryant, and Goodman have corrosion and rust protection for the cabinet and other components
• Amana, Goodman, American Standard, and Trane have air conditioners with communicating capabilities
• Amana, Daikin, and Goodman have models with self-diagnostic systems
• Goodman, Daikin, Rheem, and Trane offer special compressor designs
• Daikin, Carrier, KeepRite, Lennox, and Goodman have inverter technology that improves the performance of their variable-speed compressors

 

Are you concerned with warranty coverage?

York offers a pretty standard warranty for their value-tier models. Their premium models come with an excellent warranty, but these are ultra-high SEER air conditioners.

If you're in the market for a 16- to 18-SEER air conditioner that also has great warranty coverage, then you might want to look at some of the brands we mentioned earlier, such as Goodman, Daikin, and Amana.

Excellent warranty coverage can save you a lot of money, but remember that no matter what brand you buy, you'll still have to take steps to keep the warranty intact.

For example, you'll have to pay for professional installation, and you'll have to hire a licensed HVAC tech to come in for annual maintenance. But if you're not willing to do those things, then the warranty will likely be cancelled, and it won’t matter if York’s warranty coverage isn't the best in the business.

What's more important than brand?

We mentioned before that York is made by the same parent company that also makes air conditioners under the brands Coleman and Luxaire, and the same can be said for most of the HVAC companies out there. Ultimately, there's only a handful of parent companies that are responsible for hundreds of brands.

The point is that brand shouldn’t be your most important concern when buying a new air conditioner. Some of the things that should take precedence over brand are your budget, the features you want, getting the right size, a SEER in the right range for Canada, good warranty coverage, and the other things we’ve discussed today.

And there is one way you can ensure you get everything you want and need from a new air conditioner, and that’s working with the right HVAC dealer.

A good contractor is like a doctor for your HVAC system: they're trained and licensed, they have experience, they can help you prevent and diagnose problems, and they can help you make wise decisions.

Here are some examples of the ways a good HVAC pro can make your air conditioner purchase smoother and better:

• Your new air conditioner will be sized properly for your home
• The system will be installed correctly, without voiding the warranty, and it will work at peak efficiency
• You'll get help with rebate applications and registration
• The new air conditioner will be compatible with your existing HVAC system
• You'll get help installing HVAC add-ons like thermostats and air purifiers
• When your air conditioner needs repairs, the replacement parts will be manufacturer approved
• Your new A/C will be within your budget and meet all your needs
• You'll have someone trustworthy and reliable to call when you need repairs, maintenance, or emergency service

York has their own training program, and the HVAC specialists who complete the training are called Certified Comfort Specialists. You don’t necessarily have to choose a Certified Comfort Specialist to get a York air conditioner, but technicians with the designation have been specifically trained to install, fine-tune, and maintain York equipment.

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York Add-ons, Extras, and Thermostats

 

Smart Thermostats and Controls

York has a small selection of proprietary smart thermostats and controls, including the Affinity Hx thermostat, the Hx3 thermostat, and the Hx3 Communicating Zoning System. The zoning system is just that: it can be used to control multiple zones with unique temperature settings throughout your house.

The thermostats have features like voice control when integrated with devices like Alexa, service alerts, automatic updates, programmable comfort schedules, and an app you can download to control your system settings from anywhere.

One interesting thing York has introduced is a universal thermostat adapter that you can use to integrate an existing smart home system with York’s premium products.

Air Cleaners and Purifiers

York has a number of products to improve indoor air quality, including hybrid electronic air cleaners, media air cleaners, ultraviolet air treatment systems, and more powerful portable air cleaners for commercial applications.

Media filters are like more powerful furnace filters that trap things like dust and pollen, whereas electronic air cleaners use filters and an electrical charge to remove contaminants such as dust and pollen as well as viruses and other pathogens. And then there's the UV air treatment system, which targets things like mold, odours, viruses, and bacteria.

Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs)

York also makes ERVs, devices that improve the ventilation in your home by bringing in a constant supply of fresh air. They exchange heat and moisture between the two air sources to help maintain the temperature of your home and balance moisture levels. These can be great if you need additional ventilation in the home and help with humidity control.

Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers

Moisture imbalances can cause a lot of problems in the house, and they can also force your air conditioner and furnace to work harder.

Humidifiers correct issues associated with dry air, and dehumidifiers correct problems with moist air.

York has whole-home steam, bypass, and fan-powered humidifiers that can add moisture to the air and make your home more comfortable. They also have a whole-home dehumidifier in case you live in a humid climate or don’t have enough ventilation in the house to remove excess moisture.

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About the Company

York has been in the business of manufacturing air conditioners and other HVAC products since the 1870s. In that time, they’ve learned a thing or two about making reliable cooling systems that are efficient, high-quality, and durable.

York was acquired by Johnson Controls in 2005, and this is the same parent company that owns the brand Coleman Heating & Air Conditioning. Today, York heating and cooling products are still designed and assembled in North America. Their air conditioners remain some of the most popular on the market.

Eager to learn more about York air conditioners? Fill out an online quote request, and one of our representatives will be happy to provide you with a free, no obligation quote.

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York FAQs

 

Are York air conditioners good?

York may be an entry-level brand, but they have a long history in the HVAC industry and have built a reputation for making air conditioners that are both high-quality and affordable.

They may not have the prestige that names like Lennox and Carrier do, but York products are recognized all over Canada as being long-lasting and reliable.

How long should a York air conditioner last?

York air conditioners typically last between 15 and 20 years. You can also get a good idea of an air conditioner’s life expectancy by looking at the warranty terms. Premium models from York are warrantied for the lifetime of the unit, so you know the brand stands behind their products.

You can also help extend the life of your A/C by paying for professional installation, changing the filter regularly, getting annual maintenance, and taking care of repairs promptly.