Your Comfort Guide to the Quietest Central Air Conditioners

While having central air conditioning is a great way to stay comfortable in the summer, the noise generated by a droning A/C can be a problem for some people. But buying one of the quietest air conditioning systems on the market can at least help somewhat alleviate the issue.

When deciding on an air conditioner, you have countless models to choose from. Beyond all the technology and features each system has to offer, the excessive sound of the unit can make it annoying to use.

You can retreat from the heat in your own piece of paradise by switching to a quieter machine. But, how do you know which air conditioner to choose?

Continue reading to learn about the various models available and find out if they would suit your space.

See our full guide to the Best Central Air Conditioner Brands & Models here.

Technology that Reduces Noise in Air Conditioners

When looking for the quietest ACs, try upgrading to the new systems that come with noise reduction technology.

For example, the amount of noise an AC makes is measured in decibels; the lower, the better.

Anything between 50-60 decibel rating is the ideal volume for a home or workspace. It compares to the sound of coffee percolating or people having a conversation.

Here are some features you can look out for that help in reducing noise:

• Noise-reducing fan blades
• Variable-speed blower fans
• Compressor insulation and mounts

In addition, the bigger the size of the AC system, the louder it will be, but not much can be done about that.

Single Stage vs Dual-Stage vs Variable-Speed

The difference between these three options is their compressor. A compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant so it can turn from a gas into a liquid and transfer heat.

A single-stage system works on one level of operation, which operates at full blast to cool down the space.

However, the dual air conditioner works in two stages:

• High or full blast for sweltering hot days
• Low for cooler days or once the house is cooled

The unit also decreases the noise by switching from full blast to low, depending on the temperature.

Variable-speed systems are the best money can buy, because they can run at gradual power stages. Here are some benefits of a variable-speed system:

• Accurate and consistent cooling
• Energy efficient
• Even temperatures throughout the building
• Advanced humidity control
• Quieter than other systems

You can usually find these systems in air conditioning 18 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) or above.

However, you don’t want to purchase an AC system over 20 SEER in Canada. Although it does get hot and humid during the summer, anything above 20 SEER will have you living/working in a freezer, but you won’t see additional energy savings.

Ranking Air Conditioner Types by Noise Levels

Air conditioning systems come in many forms, including portable, window, central, and ductless systems. They all have their pros and cons, and when it comes to noise levels, some are quieter than others.

Central air conditioners are generally going to be the quietest inside the house. However, the outdoor units tend to be a little noisier, so you’ll want to install them away from outdoor recreation/social areas if possible.

Ductless systems are typically very quiet as well, but they might be a bit louder than central systems because there will be air handlers in the living spaces.

Window units are noisier than both because the system is right there in the room with you, but at least part of the compressor sits outside.

Portable units are the noisiest because the entire unit is inside with you.

The 16 Quietest Air Conditioning Systems on the Market

Now you’re up to date with noise reduction technology. Here are the quietest air conditioning systems on the market:

1. Goodman GSXS6

Goodman is part of the same family as Daikin and Amana, but it’s a more economical brand than some of the higher-end names out there. This is currently one of the quietest air conditioners on the market.

Efficiency: 17.2 SEER2

Noise range: 45 – 74 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certified: No

Pros:

• Great warranty
• Variable-speed swing compressor
• High-density compressor sound blanket
• Communicating capabilities
• Meets current SEER2 regulations

Cons:

• Will be one of Goodman’s pricier models

Best For: The variable-speed compressor will work in any climate and is powerful enough to deal with heat waves and humidity.

2. Carrier Infinity 26 24VNA6

This is Carrier’s top-of-the-line unit, with the most technologies/features, most power, highest efficiency rating, and highest price.

Efficiency: 24 SEER2

Noise range: 51 – 68 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes

Pros:

• Variable-speed compressor
• Greenspeed Intelligence
• Humidity control
• Special fan blade and motor design
• Special top that muffles noise

Cons:

• Model is much more powerful than any Canadian home would likely need
• Very expensive system

Best For: Large homes and climates with long, hot summers or high humidity.

3. Bryant Evolution Extreme 26 186CNV

Bryant and Carrier are sister companies, and this is their equivalent top-of-the-line unit, with most of the same bells and whistles that Carrier’s premium system offers.

Efficiency: 24 SEER2

Noise range: 51 – 68 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes

Pros:

• ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023
• Variable-speed operation
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Wi-Fi software updates
• Excellent humidity control
• AeroQuiet™ System II design for quiet operation

Cons:

• Model is much more powerful than any Canadian home would likely need
• Very expensive system

Best For: Large homes and climates with long, hot summers or high humidity.

4. Coleman Echelon™ Split System Air Conditioner – AC21

The Coleman Echelon™ is a premium system that will work like a dream and is extremely quiet and efficient.

Efficiency – 20 SEER

Noise range – 53 to 74 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certified – Yes

Pros:

• Quiet
• Climate Connect technology
• Charge View technology
• Easy to use
• Energy efficient
• Durable
• Variable-speed model

Cons:

• It costs between $4000- $5400 to install

Best For: Its new Climate Connect technology can optimize the system to work in any climate.

5. Luxaire Acclimate™ Acclimate™ Series AL21

You can condition Luxaire Acclimate systems to service any room in any climate. It’s called Climate Sync, and it’s here to take over the industry.

Efficiency –21 SEER

Noise range – 53 to 74 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certification – Yes

Pros:

• Quiet
• Climate Sync technology
• Charge Smart technology
• Silent drive technology
• Energy efficient
• Even cooling throughout the building
• Durable
• Competitive price

Cons:

• It needs more innovative features

Best For: Any climate, environment and space.

6. York Affinity Series – YXV

York is owned by Johnson Controls, which also owns Luxaire and Coleman. That’s why these three brands sell the same air conditioning systems. However, each brand has different pricing.

Efficiency – 21 SEER

Noise range – 53 to 74 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certification – Yes

Pros:

• Quiet thanks to the QuietDrive™ feature
• Energy efficient
• Variable-speed compressor
• Long-lasting
• Faster installation with its Charge Assurance™ feature
• It has a Climate Set feature to customise cooling

Cons:

• Costs between $4500 – $5500+ to install

Best For: Great for all climates thanks to its Climate Set feature.

7. Ruud UA20

Ruud is known for its high-efficient central air conditioners. They have been in business for over 100 years, so they know what they are doing.

Efficiency – 20.5 SEER

Noise range – 54 to 76 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certification – Yes

Pros:

• Quiet
• Energy efficient
• Durable
• Variable-speed compressor
• Can pair with your smart home
• Econet™

Cons:

• It costs between $3500-$7500 to install

Best For: Due to its innovative features, this system is perfect for any climate.

8. Rheem Prestige Series: Variable Speed (RA20)

The Rheem Prestige Series (RA20) is an energy-efficient system that will help you keep your electric bills low.

The system boasts PlusOne™ features with a minimum of 20 SEER, making it an economical choice.

Efficiency – Up to 20.5 SEER

Noise range – 54 to 76 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certification – Yes

Pros:

• Ultra-quiet
• Variable-speed compressor
• PlusOne™ technologies for easy maintenance
• Modulating technology for better temperature control
• Fan orifice stimulates airflow efficiency while reducing noise

Cons:

• It costs between $5000 – $7500+ to install

Best For: Thanks to innovative features, this unit will suit any climate but is best suited for very hot temperatures.

9. American Standard Platinum 18

A sophisticated and efficient air conditioner that’s built to last and that will reduce energy costs, operate quietly, reduce excess humidity in the home, and maintain a consistent temperature.

Efficiency: 18 SEER2

Noise range: 55 – 75 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certified: No

Pros:

• Variable-speed operation
• Communicating technology
• Quality materials and sturdy construction
• Good humidity control

Cons:

• One of the brand’s most powerful and sophisticated models, so it will come at a higher cost

Best For: Any climate, including ones with heat waves, long summers, and high humidity.

10. Daikin Fit DX17VS

Daikin is one of the leading brands in the air conditioning world and has just bought Goodman with the idea of revamping the brand.

This system works on an inverter-type compressor instead of a rotary one, which gives it the edge over competitors.

Efficiency: Up to 18 SEER

Noise range: 55-74 decibel rating

ENERGY STAR® Certification – Yes

Pros:

• Quiet
• Inverter technology
• Reliable
• Durable
• Wifi thermostat

Cons:

• Hard to find contractors who install the system
• Low efficiency for warmer climates

However, this should not be a factor for Canadians, as the efficiency is perfect for the summer climate.

Best For: Smaller spaces, as the unit is very compact. Also, it is a good choice if you want a long-lasting unit that won’t need many repairs.

11. Trane XV20i TruComfort™

Trane and American Standard are sister companies, so their models are going to be similar in terms of efficiency ratings, features, and noise levels. This model is the most sophisticated air conditioner in Trane’s product lineup, so it has all the bells and whistles, the highest SEER, and the highest price.

Efficiency: 21.5 SEER2

Noise range: 55 – 75 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes

Pros:

• Variable-speed compressor and fan
• Communicating capabilities
• Durable construction
• Will eliminate excess moisture

Cons:

• High cost
• Efficiency rating is more powerful than you need in Canada
• Won’t see additional energy savings compared to a 16 to 18 SEER air conditioner

Best For: Hot climates with long summers or high humidity, especially if you live in a larger space.

12. Lennox SL28XCV

This is one of the most powerful and efficient air conditioners on the market, and because it’s a Lennox, it will also be one of the most expensive.

Efficiency: 28 SEER

Noise range: 56 – 73 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes

Pros:

• Meets rigorous efficiency and energy performance standards
• Variable-speed compressor
• Special sound-dampening system
• Equipped with a proprietary Quantum Coil to withstand extreme conditions

Cons:

• Very expensive model
• Too powerful for Canadian summers
• Warranty is only standard

Best For: The largest spaces and warmest climates, including ones with long, hot summers and high humidity.

13. Heil QuietComfort Deluxe 19 HVA9 Air Conditioner

If you are looking for a quiet, efficient, and trustworthy air conditioner, then you can’t go wrong with the Heil QuietComfort Deluxe.

Heil is the parent company of Bryant and Carrier, so you know you are in good hands, and it will be affordable.

Efficiency: 19 SEER

Noise range: 56 – 72 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certification – Yes

Pros:

• Quiet
• Energy Efficient
• Wifi thermostat and app
• 10-year warranty on the compressor or coil
• Value for money
• Corrosion-resistant

Cons:

• Costs between $5000-$7500+ to install
• No exclusive features

Best For: As it has a variable-speed compressor, it is suitable for any climate.

14. KeepRite CVA9

KeepRite has come out with one of Canada’s quietest air conditioner systems, the CVA9. They have been a trusted brand for over 50 years, and their history speaks for itself.

Efficiency – 19 SEER

Noise range – 56 to 74 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certification – Yes

Pros:

• Quiet
• Affordable
• SmartSense technology
• It comes in single-stage, dual-stage, and variable-speed
• Long-lasting
• Economical

Cons:

• A limited selection of features

Best For: Climates that are extremely hot and humid.

15. TempStar TVA9

This premium system is a good choice. It is budget-friendly, quiet, trustworthy, and has many excellent features.

If you want a long-lasting and reliable air condition unit, the TempStar TVA9 won’t disappoint.

Efficiency – 19 SEER

Noise range – 56 to 74 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certification – Yes

Pros:

• Quiet
• Variable-speed compressor with five stages
• Corrosion and weather resistant
• Energy efficient
• You can pair it with a communication system

Cons:

• Cost

Best For: Great for any climate due to its variable-speed compressor.

16. Amana AVXC20

Amana is in the same family as Daikin and Goodman, so you may notice some similarities between the models and features. This air conditioner is highly efficient, probably more so than you’ll need in Canada.

Efficiency: 24.5 SEER

Noise range: 57 – 75 decibels

ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes

Pros:

• Communicating ComfortBridge™ technology
• Inverter technology
• Variable-speed compressor
• Great warranty
• ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023
• Self-diagnostic control board

Cons:

• High SEER means even higher price
• High cost may not translate to additional energy savings in Canada

Best For: Larger homes, hot climates, and places with humidity.

Get a Quiet Central Air Conditioner System This Summer

With all the fantastic brands available, it will be hard to pick a favourite. But we are here to help.

Browse through our helpful central air conditioner guide to find everything you need to make an informed decision.

So, remove those noise-cancelling headphones; you won’t need them after purchasing one of the quietest air conditioning systems.