2025 Air Conditioner Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Cooling System for Your Home
Looking for an air conditioner buying guide to help you choose the perfect AC? We’ve got your back. Our AC buying guide includes all the AC buying tips and information you need to pick the right air conditioner for your Edmonton home.
When buying a new AC, air conditioner installation is just as important to consider as efficiency, size and brand. Guaranteeing your air conditioner is installed properly will ensure the unit runs efficiently and that you don’t face costly repairs down the road. To help you find the best AC installer in Edmonton, our air conditioner buying guide also includes tips for choosing an HVAC contractor.
Ready to jump into the best AC guide for Edmonton homeowners? Here’s what you need to know when buying a new air conditioner.
Essential AC Buying Tips for 2025
- Purchase an air conditioner with the highest SEER rating you can afford. This will improve energy efficiency and minimize your monthly cooling bill.
- Consider a central AC unit with smart home capabilities. These features offer added convenience, enhanced efficiency, and easier troubleshooting.
- Choose the right size air conditioner for your Edmonton home (see our sizing guide below).
- Select a top-rated AC brand like Ameristar or Trane.
- Before buying a new central AC, consider whether a portable air conditioner, ductless mini split AC, or heat pump is sufficient for your cooling needs.
- Do some research to find the best Edmonton AC installation contractor. This will guarantee you choose the right air conditioner for your home and that it is installed properly – the first time.
How Do I Know If My Air Conditioner Needs to Be Replaced?
Not sure if it’s time to buy a new AC? Our 2025 Air Conditioner Buying Guide is here to help.
Here are 6 tell-tale signs that you need to replace your air conditioner.
1. Your AC is 10+ Years Old
The typical lifespan of a home air conditioner in Edmonton is around 10 to 15 years. If your AC is older than this, it may be time to purchase a new one.
Keep in mind – how long your AC lasts depends on several factors, including brand, model, maintenance, and usage. Thus, with proper care and regular maintenance, you can help prolong the life of your air conditioner.
2. Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs
If your air conditioner is constantly breaking down or requiring repairs, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace it. Newer models are often more reliable and energy-efficient while also being more cost effective than frequent repairs. Plus, the new refrigerant switch also means that old AC units using R-410A refrigerant may become expensive to repair as the new refrigerants become more readily available.
3. Increased Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed that your energy bill has increased even though you haven’t changed your cooling habits, it could mean your air conditioner is not running as efficiently as it once was. In this case, upgrading to a newer, high-efficiency model can help lower your monthly costs. New models are utilizing more eco-friendly refrigerants like R-454B or R-32, which are more efficient than the old R-410A. Better efficiency means better cooling for lower utility costs!
4. Limited Airflow and a Lack of Cool Air
One of the most obvious signs that it’s time to buy a new air conditioner is a lack of cool air or limited airflow. If your air conditioner isn’t blowing cold air as strongly as it used to or not cooling your home evenly, it’s likely the unit is not working properly. Therefore, a new AC may be necessary.
Be sure to call a professional Edmonton AC company before you purchase a new air conditioner. They will be able to tell you whether the issue can be repaired or if your AC needs to be replaced.
5. Strange Noises
If your AC is making unusual noises, such as grinding, squeaking, or rattling, it may be a sign that there are issues with its internal components. In this case, consult an AC professional as soon as possible to determine if you need to replace the unit.
6. Strange Smells
Like strange noises, strange smells can be an indication that your air conditioner needs to be replaced. Your AC should output clean, fresh air. So, if you smell something unusual (e.g. burning, smokey, musty smells, etc.), be sure to contact an HVAC expert right away!
Need help deciding?
The experts at ProSolutions Inc. can assess your current AC’s age, condition, and efficiency. If a replacement is needed, we’ll help you find the ideal cooling solution for your Edmonton home.
AC Buying Guide Basics – What to Look for When Buying an Air Conditioner in Edmonton
Wondering, “How do I choose the right air conditioner for my Edmonton home?” Have no fear—we’re here to walk you through it! Our air conditioner buying guide will cover the three most important factors to consider when buying a new AC:
- Efficiency
- Technology
- Noise
Learn more about these factors below, including AC buying tips for each.
Efficiency (SEER Rating)
When purchasing a new AC unit, it’s essential to consider the system’s efficiency ratings: SEER and the newer SEER2.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures how efficiently an air conditioner operates over a typical cooling season. It’s calculated by dividing the total cooling output (in BTUs) by the total electrical energy input (in watt-hours). A higher SEER rating indicates greater efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.
SEER2 is the updated version of this rating system. It uses more rigorous testing procedures that better reflect real-world conditions, like how your AC actually performs with ductwork and airflow resistance in a typical Edmonton home. Because of this, SEER2 ratings are slightly lower than SEER, even though the equipment performance hasn’t changed. For example, a unit with a 15.2 SEER2 rating is roughly equivalent to a 16 SEER under the old scale.
SEER vs. SEER2
- SEER is based on lab testing under ideal conditions
- SEER2 includes more realistic factors like static pressure from ducts, so it gives a clearer picture of real-life performance.
What’s a Good SEER or SEER2 Rating in Edmonton?
In Alberta, where summers can get hot and dry, a SEER2 rating of 14.3 or higher is generally recommended for energy efficiency and comfort. Some systems go as high as 18+ SEER2. While higher-rated systems cost more upfront, they offer better long-term savings.
Is It Worth Upgrading to a Higher SEER2 Unit?
Yes—especially if you want to reduce your energy bills, lower your carbon footprint, and get the most comfort from your system. Higher-efficiency ACs can also help increase the value of your home and extend the life of your system with fewer breakdowns.
Pro Tip: SEER2 is now becoming the new standard across Canada. Many newer AC models are already listed using only SEER2 rating—so if you’re comparing older and newer systems, make sure you’re looking at the same standard!
Need Assistance?
If you’re uncertain about which SEER or SEER2 rating is best for your home, our team of professional AC installers is here to help. Contact us today for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs.
Technology (Smart Home Integration)
Do you have a smart home? If so, or if you’re considering integrating smart home capabilities, you may want to consider a central AC unit that offers smart features. For instance, many smart AC systems can connect to a smart thermostat
There are many benefits to having a smart AC unit, including:
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Convenience – with a smart air conditioner, you can control your home’s temperature from your mobile device.
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Energy efficiency – with the ability to monitor performance and adjust the temperature automatically, smart AC units can help optimize efficiency. As a result, you’ll use less energy and have lower utility bills.
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Troubleshooting – many smart ACs also have built-in troubleshooting capabilities. This can help you cut down on maintenance and air conditioning repair costs.
Noise (Decibel Rating)
Noise is another important factor to consider in an air conditioner buying guide.
Every AC unit will make some noise when it runs. However, how loud your AC is will depend on:
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The unit (e.g. brand, model)
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How old it is
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What type of AC system
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Condition the AC unit
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Your furnace blowers (as they are responsible for blowing the cool air through your home’s ducts)
In most cases, older ACs will be significantly louder than new air conditioners, as innovative designs have helped to reduce noise.When shopping for a new AC, take a look at its decibel (dB) rating. This rating will tell you how loud or quiet a system will be – the lower the decibel rating, the quieter the system will be.When comparing the decibel ratings of different systems, keep these common noise levels in mind.
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Whisper – 30 dB
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Common noise levels in a home – 40 dB
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Typical conversation or background music – 60 dB
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Portable AC or a noisy restaurant – 80 to 89 dB
*Noise levels above 85 dB can be harmful to your hearing.You can expect a quiet AC system to range from 50 to 60 decibels. Most people prefer an HVAC system with a decibel rating that is below 60 dB, which is about the same as background music.
How Do I Determine What Size Air Conditioner I Need?
Our air conditioner selection guide wouldn’t be complete without discussing AC buying tips related to unit size. That’s because AC sizing is extremely important. Not only will the right size AC provide the most efficient and consistent cooling, but it will also guarantee maximum home comfort.
The right size air conditioner for your home depends on many factors, including:
- Size of your home
- Age and insulation quality of your home
- Edmonton’s local climate
- The number and type of heat-generating appliances in your home
To help you get a rough idea of what size air conditioner you need, here is a sizing chart.
Please keep in mind that these are rough estimates only. As mentioned above, there are many other factors that determine what size air conditioner you need. For example, your home design, including whether you have south-facing windows, vaulted ceilings, etc., will play a role. In addition, the ductwork in your home and the original furnace size will also impact what size air conditioner you need. Therefore, it is best to have a licensed AC technician come to your home and complete a heat load calculation to ensure you buy the right size AC!
Good AC installation contractors, like ProSolutions Inc., will help you determine what size air conditioner you need. To determine the tonnage, they will complete a load calculation that incorporates the factors above, as well as other considerations. So, when you’re shopping for a new AC, be sure to ask your AC installer to help you determine what size air conditioner you need.
Best ACs for Edmonton – Our Top AC Buying Guide Recommendations for 2025
Any good AC buyer’s guide will tell you – not all AC brands are created equal, and you’ll want to look for a unit that is efficient, reliable, and affordable. With so many brands and models available, it can be difficult to decide what’s right for your home. At ProSolutions Inc., we recommend the Ameristar AC brand.
Ameristar is our top AC brand recommendation for Edmonton homes. That’s because Ameristar ACs offer exceptional quality at a reasonable price point. Built by American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning, Ameristar air conditioners are quiet, efficient and built to last. This popular AC brand is also backed by a manufacturer’s warranty for up to 10 years.
To help you choose an air conditioner, our AC technicians have developed an Ameristar AC buying guide. Their top recommendations for the best ACs for Edmonton homes are below.
Looking for an Ameristar AC with a different tonnage or SEER rating? No problem – we can help! Contact our staff today, and we’ll order it directly from the manufacturer.
Ameristar Furnace Options Also Available
Looking for year-round comfort? We also carry Ameristar high-efficiency furnaces, including the:
- Ameristar A951X – Single-stage
- Ameristar A952V – Two-stage variable speed
These pair perfectly with Ameristar air conditioners to create an integrated HVAC system that’s built for Edmonton’s climate.
Other Brands to Consider
- AirEase by Lennox – Backed by more than a decade of research and development, AirEase AC units are known for their exceptional reliability. As a result, they are one of our top-rated AC brands for Edmonton homeowners.
- RunTru by Trane – RunTru offers high-end cooling systems at a reasonable price. Thoroughly tested and dependable, these AC units are built to last. Therefore, the RunTru brand also comes highly recommended by our AC technicians.
- Trane – Trane is a trusted AC brand that offers high-quality and energy-efficient air conditioners. In fact, Trane offers some of the most efficient and quietest AC units on the market.
- Ducane – owned by Lennox, the Ducane brand offers good quality, reliable air conditioners. This AC brand is more cost-effective than high-end brands like Trane, with options for all budgets. Therefore, Ducane is recommended for Edmonton homeowners looking for a dependable but more affordable home cooling solution.
- Comfort-Aire – Comfort-Aire is also a reliable AC brand with several options for different budgets. When installed by a professional AC installation team, Comfort-Aire ACs provide dependable, efficient cooling.
- Napoleon – Proudly Canadian, Napoleon has been manufacturing HVAC products since 1976. Their air conditioners are designed with durability and efficiency in mind, featuring advanced technologies. Napoleon’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned them recognition as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies.
To learn more about these AC brands and which models our air conditioning experts recommend, check out our guide to the
Best Air Conditioner Brands.
What Is a Mini Split Air Conditioner?
A mini split AC, also known as a ductless air conditioner, is a compact cooling system that doesn’t require ductwork. Ideal for cooling individual rooms or zones, mini splits offer energy efficiency, flexible installation, and precise temperature control—perfect for Edmonton homes without central AC or for additions like offices, basements, or garages.
Recommended Mini Split ACs for Edmonton Homes
Interested in a mini split (ductless) AC for your Edmonton home? Here are our top recommendations:
Tosot Mini Split ACs – Our Top Pick
Tosot units are reliable, energy-efficient, and whisper-quiet—perfect for targeted cooling with modern features like inverter tech and programmable settings. They’re a great fit for comfort and value. Now in stock at ProSolutions Inc. Ask us which models are available today!
Other Trusted Brands:
- Ameristar
- Runtru
- Trane
Important Note: To guarantee optimal efficiency and maximum home comfort, it is essential that a professional HVAC company completes your ductless AC install.
Types of Air Conditioners & Cooling Solutions – Central AC vs. Portable AC vs. Ductless Mini Split AC vs. Heat Pump
You might be wondering – is it worth buying a portable air conditioner, or should I invest in a central AC unit, ductless mini split or heat pump instead?
The truth is, it depends on your situation and needs.
Here are a few AC buying tips to keep in mind when choosing between a central AC, portable AC, ductless mini split, or heat pump.
Portable AC
In some cases, a portable AC may be all you need – don’t let any air conditioner buying guide tell you otherwise.
To help you decide if a portable AC will work for your needs, here are some pros and cons to keep in mind.
Advantages of Portable Air Conditioners
There are several advantages to portable air conditioners. These include:
- Cost – this option is much less expensive than buying and installing a central AC unit.
- Portability – a portable AC can be moved from room to room. As a result, you can cool only the areas you are using.
- Availability – portable air conditioners are easy to find. Check out your local home improvement stores.
- Ease of use – you can purchase a portable unit, bring it home, and have it up and running in a matter of minutes. This is a much quicker and easier process than buying and installing a central AC system.
Disadvantages of Portable Air Conditioners
While there are many advantages to portable ACs, namely cost and convenience, there are also several disadvantages. These disadvantages are often what push people to purchase and install central air conditioning.
- Noise – portable units are often very loud. This can be especially disturbing if you have one in your bedroom that runs during the night.
- Size – These ACs can be bulky and often require a window for installation, taking up space both inside and outside.
- Limited Cooling – A portable AC will only cool one area. If you want to cool another room, you’ll need to move the unit.
- Inefficiency – Portable ACs tend to be less efficient. Many draw air from the room they’re in, meaning they expend energy to cool air that’s already been cooled.
When to Buy a Portable AC
Still unsure whether a portable AC is right for your home? Here are some common situations where a portable unit may be your best option:
- You rent your home – in this case, central air conditioner installation may not be worth it.
- You have a small space – if your home is small and you’ll only need a couple of portable AC units to cool it then this will be the most cost-effective option.
Central AC
Many people opt for installing central air conditioning in their homes. But, before you commit to buying and installing a central AC unit, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.
Advantages of Central Air Conditioners
There are many advantages to central air conditioner installation. These include:
- Aesthetics – central AC units are typically installed in a location that is tucked away and out of sight. This makes for a much cleaner and tidier look in your home.
- Home comfort – a central AC will provide the best possible environment in your home. When installed by professionals like ProSolutions Inc., your system will be calibrated specifically for Edmonton’s climate, ensuring reliable, even cooling.
- Quiet – new and efficient central AC units are very quiet. So quiet that you’ll barely know they’re there.
- Energy efficient – purchasing and installing a central AC is much more efficient than running several portable units.
- Fast & effective cooling – While a portable AC can take up to an hour to cool one room, a central AC can cool your entire home in minutes.
- Increased home value – Central air conditioning is a long-term investment that can increase your home’s resale value.
Disadvantages of Central AC
As most air conditioner buying guides will note, the biggest drawback to central AC for many people is the initial cost. Buying a new AC can be expensive, especially for a new, high-efficiency model. On top of that, air conditioner installation is an added cost.
When to Install a Central Air Conditioner
Central AC units are best for people who own their own homes. If you own your home, plan to live in it for several years, and enjoy the added comfort and convenience that a central AC system provides, then central air conditioner installation is your best bet.
If you’ve decided to install a central AC in your home, keep in mind that you may need to apply for permits before the job can be done. For instance, any time an air conditioning unit is wired into the electrical system, you must apply for an electrical permit. As well, if the installation of a cooling unit requires a ducting design alteration, both an HVAC permit and an electrical permit are required. However, if the air conditioning unit is a portable, plug-in type, no electrical permit is required.
Zoning bylaws may also affect your options when it comes to installing a central AC. For instance, if you need an electrical or HVAC permit to install your new system but cannot get approved for the permit, you may not be able to install central AC in your home.
These factors should be considered before you commit to purchasing and installing a central air conditioner.
Ductless Mini Split AC
The last type of air conditioner our 2025 AC buyers guide will look at is ductless mini splits. If you want to add AC to a single room or area in your home, mini split systems offer a convenient and efficient option.
To help you decide if a ductless AC is right for you, here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Advantages of Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioners
Ductless air conditioners have several advantages, including the following.
- Size – a mini split air conditioner is much smaller than a central air conditioner and takes up less space than a portable AC.
- Fast, focused Cooling – Ductless systems can quickly cool a single room or designated area, making them ideal for targeted comfort.
- Smart features – Many models offer advanced tech like smart home integration, programmable timers, and customizable cooling modes.
- Zoned Flexibility – You can install mini splits in specific rooms to control temperatures independently and avoid cooling areas you’re not using.
- Lower Maintenance costs – Mini splits are easier to maintain than central ACs. Homeowners can handle basic upkeep themselves, such as filter cleaning.
Disadvantages of Ductless ACs
While ductless ACs are efficient and reliable, there are some potential drawbacks:
- Installation Costs – Ductless AC installation can be just as expensive as installing a central air system.
- Aesthetics – The indoor unit is mounted on the wall or ceiling, which some homeowners may find less visually appealing than a hidden central system.
- Maintenance Needs – similar to a central AC, a mini split system requires regular maintenance. For instance, the filter in the interior unit needs to be cleaned every few weeks.
- Risk of leaks – Without proper maintenance, leaks may occur—and because the unit is indoors, this could damage walls, flooring, or furnishings.
When to Buy a Mini Split AC
Installing a ductless mini split is a great option for many Edmonton homeowners—but it isn’t the best fit for everyone.
Here’s when a mini split might be the right choice:
- You want high efficiency and lower energy bills
- You live in a condo or apartment
- You’re cooling a home addition (e.g., a suite, bonus room, sunroom)
- You want to set different temperatures in different rooms
- You have a room with temperature issues or inconsistent airflow
- Your home has no existing ductwork
Mini splits offer the perfect balance between control, efficiency, and comfort—especially for homes where installing ductwork isn’t practical.
Heat Pumps
A heat pump is another excellent cooling solution for Edmonton homes. This AC alternative will not only cool your home in the summer but also help heat it during the winter! Best of all, a heat pump is energy-efficient and affordable to run.
Here are some important things to consider when deciding between a heat pump vs. traditional air conditioner.
Advantages of Heat Pumps for Cooling
Heat pumps offer several advantages over air conditioners, including the following.
- High efficiency – heat pumps are an extremely energy-efficient cooling solution and use only electricity.
- Lower Operating Costs – since heat pumps are so efficient, they are much less costly to operate than other cooling solutions.
- Dual Use – a heat pump will also work with your furnace to help increase efficiency and decrease heating costs in the winter!
- Enhanced Home Comfort – heat pumps help manage humidity and improve indoor air quality, offering more than just temperature control
Disadvantages of Heat Pumps
The biggest drawback to buying and installing a heat pump is the high initial cost. Heat pumps are more costly to buy and install than other cooling options, like portable ACs. In fact, of all the air conditioning options discussed above, a heat pump is the most costly.
Want to know how much it will cost to install a heat pump in your Edmonton home? Give our team a call, and we’ll provide you with a free personalized quote!
When to Buy a Heat Pump vs Air Conditioner
Not sure whether a heat pump is right for your Edmonton home? A heat pump is ideal if you want to:
- Reduce your carbon footprint with the help of highly efficient appliances.
- Minimize cooling costs and need a whole-home cooling solution.
- Reduce your heating bill in the winter.
Our Simple Air Conditioner Selection Guide
At ProSolutions, we want to make buying an AC as simple and stress-free as possible. To help you choose the best cooling solution, here’s a quick AC buying guide chart that compares the options above.
AC Maintenance Requirements
When buying a new air conditioner, it’s important to do your homework. Read air conditioner buying guides, check out online reviews, and talk to trusted Edmonton AC specialists to ensure the brand and model you choose won’t cause headaches down the road.
If you go with a reputable brand and have your unit professionally installed, you likely won’t run into any issues right away. That said, regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC running smoothly for years to come.
Regular maintenance will ensure your AC is in top working condition, extend the unit’s lifetime and help it to run at maximum efficiency. A yearly AC tune-up will inspect the following:
- Evaporator coils
- Refrigerant lines
- Condenser
- Compressor
- Blower motor
- Thermostat calibration
- Air ducts
- Filters
Before buying an AC, chat with an experienced Edmonton AC installation team to understand what kind of maintenance is involved. Top local contractors will also offer AC maintenance plans—which can help save time and money in the long run.
Pro Tip: Choosing a reliable AC installer is one of the best ways to prevent costly repairs. A properly installed system will work better, last longer, and require fewer fixes.
How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?
If you’ve made it to the end of our air conditioner buying guide and you’re ready to buy a new AC, you’re probably wondering – how much does an AC cost in Edmonton?
The cost to buy a new air conditioner depends on:
- AC brand and model
- Unit size and efficiency rating
- Condition of your home’s ductwork and electrical system
- AC install professional you hire
On average, Edmonton homeowners can expect to pay between $3,400 and $10,000+ for a new air conditioner, including professional installation.
Keep in mind that while it may cost more to hire a professional to install your new AC, proper installation is essential. Professional AC technicians will ensure your new air conditioner is properly installed and calibrated for the local conditions. They will also guarantee that your new system is safely installed. Thus, hiring a top-quality AC install contractor is critical.
How to Find the Best AC Install Contractor in Edmonton
Not all AC contractors are created equal-and picking the right one can make a big difference. When choosing a company to install your new AC make sure to:
- Check online review and ask for recommendations
- Get multiple quotes to compare pricing and services
- Ask detailed questions about their warranty, experience, and system recommendations
Above all, make sure the contractor is:
- Local and licensed
- Accredited to pull permits and work in Edmonton
- Trusted by other homeowners and businesses
No matter which type of air conditioner you choose, ensuring it’s the right fit for your home and needs is key to enjoying a cool, comfortable summer. At ProSolutions, we’re here to guide you through the process from selection to installation, and even maintenance, so you can enjoy peace of mind all year round. Contact us today and let us help you find the perfect solution for your home!
