Carrier Air Conditioner Data Guide

SEER Rating

• In the United States, central air conditioners must meet a minimum Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio rating of 13, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The SEER assessment measures how effectively an air conditioner converts energy to cold air. Carrier models have a SEER rating between 15 and 21. The Infinity Series line offers the highest SEER assessment and is a Consumer's Digest Best Buy.

EER Rating

• An Energy Efficiency Rating compares how effectively an air conditioner uses wattage and British Thermal Unit energy. Air conditioners with an EER of 11.6 or higher have a high energy rating, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Carrier air conditioners have an EER of 13.5 to 15. The Infinity Series line offers the highest EER, while the Performance Series has the lowest.

Quiet Rating

• Carrier air conditioners emit sound in the 65 to 72 decibel range, or the equivalent of a running dishwasher. Air conditioners in the Infinity and Performance Series operate with Carrier-patented Silencer System II technology, which minimizes noise with compressor sound blankets and silencer airflow baffles. The quietest air conditioners belong to the Infinity Series line.

Tax Credit

• With the exception of a few models, most Carrier air conditioners come with a stimulus tax credit. The stimulus program provides a federal income tax deduction if you purchase an energy efficient air conditioner for your home. As of 2011, the tax deduction for air conditioners is $300. Carrier's exceptions include models 38DHR, 24ACC6 and 24ABC6.