Since its inception in 1874, York has strived to build its name as an industry leader. Today, the brand offers a variety of HVAC equipment, including air conditioners. York’s AC models are on the cheaper end of the spectrum, making them a budget-friendly alternative to pricier competitors.
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Our Review of York Air Conditioners
York is a strong contender in the HVAC industry, offering quality air conditioners, heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, and furnaces at an affordable cost. While its AC units can be tricky to install, they’re fairly easy to maintain afterward, making York the best low-maintenance brand.
As we pored over each aspect of the brand’s offerings, we rated its reputation, warranties, affordability, energy efficiency, and product lineup. After considering these aspects, we settled on a final score of 4.7 out of 5 stars, or 94/100. Compared to other top air conditioner brands, York scores around the middle of the lineup – not the best, but far from the worst.
In our quest to evaluate York’s air conditioners, we considered the offerings of each model. Out of the lineup, our favorites are the YC2F, which offers the best mix of features and value, and the YXV 20, which offers the best features and efficiency.
Pros and Cons of York Air Conditioner Units
Pros
- Budget-friendly models available
- Low maintenance and repair costs to offset potentially higher installation costs
- Smart thermostats for remote control are available on select models, enhancing convenience and efficiency
- Solid standard warranties on par with industry standards
Cons
- Complex installation could increase up-front costs
- Less efficient units than competitors, meaning fewer energy savings over the life of the system
What Is York Air Conditioner Pricing?
York’s air conditioners come in a wide price range, with budget-friendly options on one hand and high-end options on the other. For the units themselves, most homeowners pay between $1,500 and $3,000. Of course, budget units fall on the low end of the spectrum, while premium units lean the opposite way.
Most homeowners decide to have a professional install an HVAC system in their home, which is usually the better option — especially with York units. The cost of installation can tack on an additional $1,000 or more, although the cost hinges on various factors like the installation difficulty, model size, and ductwork quality. The chart below offers a quick overview of York’s installed AC unit cost ranges.
| Low-End Models | Mid-Range Models | Premium Models |
| $2,500–$3,000 | $3,200-$4,500 | $5,000 to $6,000 |
York Air Conditioner Models Comparison
York offers its air conditioners in 11 models, each with different features to accommodate varying preferences. As we reviewed all of York’s offerings, we were particularly impressed with its most efficient unit, the YXV 20, which has several perks we detail below.
In addition, the YC2F is another strong central air conditioner contender, as it offers an ideal mix of comfort, efficiency, convenience, and value.
YXV 20 SEER2 Variable Capacity Air Conditioner
As York’s priciest air conditioner, this model features all of the bells and whistles you’ll find in its lineup. The model features the highest efficiency rating of York’s options, boasting a solid rating of 20 SEER2.
In addition, this model is compatible with York’s touch-screen thermostats for elevated comfort and remote control. Homeowners can integrate the system with the Hx3 Communicating Zoning System for isolated control throughout the house. This video below details the basics of the system.
The QuietDrive system, complete with swept wing fans and a composite base, offers ultra-quiet operating noise levels for optimal comfort. The unit’s Climate Set feature offers fine-tuned temperature control by adjusting the system to accommodate changes in the indoor and outdoor environments, working in tandem with the variable-speed design to maximize energy efficiency.
- Efficiency rating: 20 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Certified
- Blower type: Variable speed
- Warranty: Lifetime compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
TCHD 13 SEER Single-Stage Air Conditioner
This compact air conditioner is ideal for homeowners without much space for a bulky AC unit. The unit features a unique microchannel coil technology that provides better heat exchange for ultimate comfort in a smaller footprint.
The system features York’s QuietDrive technology to dampen the sounds it produces, dropping sound levels to no louder than a typical dishwasher.
- Efficiency rating: 16 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Not certified
- Blower type: Single-stage
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
YC2D 13.4 SEER2 Single-Stage Air Conditioner
As one of York’s LX Series models, the YC2D is a budget-friendly pick. While the unit doesn’t feature fancy bells and whistles, it comes with the essentials to ensure you remain cool and comfortable throughout the summer. Its compact design allows it to fit in smaller spaces, ensuring it won’t consume precious space around your home.
However, given its lower SEER rating, it’s only suitable for installation in the Northern U.S. under new air conditioner efficiency standards that became effective in 2023 (SEER2).
- Efficiency rating: 13.4 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Not certified
- Blower type: Single-stage
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
YCS 14 SEER Single-Stage Air Conditioner
Created with residents of Southwestern climates in mind, the YCS air conditioner features an optimized design to ensure it performs well in extreme temperatures. The system offers a solid SEER rating that offers plenty of energy efficiency for residents of Arizona, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and surrounding states.
In addition to its optimized design, this air conditioner features a compact build, enabling it to fit in smaller spaces.
- Efficiency rating: 16.75 SEER/16 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Not certified
- Blower type: Single-stage
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
YCE 14 SEER Single-Stage Air Conditioner
Designed specifically for Southeast U.S. climates, the YCE air conditioner is the perfect fit for residents of Florida, Arkansas, Louisiana, and other surrounding states. York tested the system in its extreme, five-year accelerated-wear test facility to ensure it would withstand high temperatures.
In addition, the unit features ball-bearing fan motors that offer top-tier performance in scorching temperatures, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the hottest summers.
- Efficiency rating: 16 SEER/15.3 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Not certified
- Blower type: Single-stage
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
YC2E 14.3 SEER2 Single-Stage Air Conditioner
Optimized for Southern U.S. climates, the YC2E air conditioner is a perfect fit for residents across the southern band of the nation. The unit features an improved design intended to provide efficient cooling in more extreme climates.
In addition, the unit offers better service access via diagonal base valves with open access. The improved alloy microchannel coil design creates a smaller overall footprint, enabling the unit to offer more performance in less space.
- Efficiency rating: 16.5 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Not certified
- Blower type: Single-stage
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
YC2F 15.2 SEER2 Air Conditioner
York’s YC2F air conditioner is the complete package, balancing greater efficiency, performance, and value into a compact design. The unit features a single-stage blower on its smaller tonnages, but for larger units, it upgrades to a two-stage system.
The model features an innovative fan design for quieter operation and a powder-coat paint finish that offers longer-lasting durability.
- Efficiency rating: Up to 17.5 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Certified
- Blower type: Single-stage (two-stage on larger tonnages)
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
HMCG2 16.5 SEER2 Modulating Side-Discharge AC
York’s HMCG2 side-discharge air conditioner is one of its premium models, offering high-end perks in a compact design. The unit is approximately 40% smaller than traditional units, and given its side-discharge fan design, it can fit in compact places most units won’t.
The streamlined fan design ensures the system operates quietly while its inverter drive technology modulates its cooling capacity to keep your home comfortably cool under the heat of the sun.
- Efficiency rating: 18.5 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Not certified
- Blower type: Twin rotary
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 2 to 5 tons
YFK 17 SEER Two-Stage Air Conditioner
Fitted with a two-stage scroll compressor, this York air conditioner offers even better efficiency and quieter operation. On top of that, it provides better humidity control, ensuring your home remains dry and comfortable. It features a compact footprint, enabling it to fit in snug spaces without inhibiting its performance.
This unit is compatible with York’s Hx and Hx3 touch-screen thermostats, so homeowners seeking added comfort and control may benefit from incorporating them. These thermostats are convenient, as they allow you to control the system remotely with a simple tap of your finger.
- Efficiency rating: 17.5 SEER/16.7 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Certified
- Blower type: Two-stage
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
YCG 17 Single-Stage Air Conditioner
York’s YCG 17 single-stage air conditioner, one of its LX series models, offers impressive features in a compact package. The unit offers an impressive efficiency rating of up to 18.5SEER/17.5 SEER2, providing comfort for many cooling seasons.
It features a direct-drive fan design that limits its sound production to ensure it doesn’t disrupt your day as it cycles. The compact cabinet design allows the unit to fit in more compact spaces, working well in situations with limited installation space.
- Efficiency rating: 18.5 SEER/17.6 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Certified
- Blower type: Single-stage
- Warranty: 10-year compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
YXT 18 SEER2 Two-Stage Air Conditioner
This two-stage air conditioner offers an even higher efficiency rating, complete with smart control and noise-dampening features.
This model features York’s QuietDrive system, complete with a composite base and swept wing fans, to lower operating sounds and ensure you remain undisturbed as the system cycles. It has a 1,000-hour, salt-spray-rated, powder-paint finish that offers an extra layer of protection and durability against the elements.
Homeowners can pair this model with York’s Affinity Hx3 touch-screen thermostat for added comfort and control. This thermostat offers communication capabilities and enables users to control their AC system remotely.
- Efficiency rating: 18 SEER2
- ENERGY STAR rating: Certified
- Blower type: Two-stage
- Warranty: Lifetime compressor, 10-year parts
- Capacity: 1.5 to 5 tons
How Does York Air Conditioner Compare to Top Competitors?
York isn’t your only AC brand option, so before you commit to one of its cooling systems, comparing it to its competitors doesn’t hurt. The chart below places York in a head-to-head comparison against Carrier and Trane to help you decide which option best suits your home.
| Features | York | Carrier | Trane |
| Premium Unit Cost | $5,000 to $6,000 | $6,400 to $8,000 | $7,500 to $10,000 |
| Low-End Unit Cost | $2,500 to $3,300 | $2,900 to $4,800 | $3,500 to $5,000 |
| Top Efficiency Rating | 20 SEER2 | 24 SEER2 | 21.5 SEER2 |
| Lowest Sound Rating | 53 decibels | 51 decibels | 55 decibels |
| Warranty | 10-year parts, 10-year or lifetime compressor | 10-year parts, 10-year unit replacement, 20-year with extension | 10-year parts, 12-year compressor, 20-year heat exchanger |
What Are York Air Conditioner’s Warranty Options?
York’s air conditioners come with solid warranty coverage. As with many brands, York’s warranty offerings vary based on the unit you choose, as the higher-end units feature longer warranties than the budget models.
York’s basic warranty, which is standard on most products, is a 10-year parts limited warranty combined with 10-year compressor coverage. York’s more pricey and efficient models, like the YXT 18 and the YXV 20, come with lifetime compressor warranties for even better coverage.
Aside from York’s standard warranty, customers can add an extension to their warranties. The company’s YORKCare Protection Plan offers ten years of complete system protection, requiring no deductibles or repair limitations.
- YORKCare Protection Plan: 10 years of total system protection
- Basic Warranty: 10-year parts, 10-year or lifetime compressor
What Are York Air Conditioner Reviews From Homeowners?
We fully assess every HVAC company we review to determine how its equipment looks on paper. But besides the facts and specifications about the brand, we want to bring you the most helpful and realistic information about the AC manufacturer. This is why we sifted through thousands of customer reviews on sites like BBB, TrustPilot, and similar sites.
Even though York is positively ranked with the BBB, it has mixed feedback from its customers. While this is fairly typical of any HVAC brand, York appeared to have a disproportionate number of negative reviews.
However, most negative feedback appears to be frustration with the local dealer and installation – not with York itself. Additionally, some reviewers mention issues with the warranty coverage. That said, it looks like most customers are misunderstanding part of York’s warranty policy (i.e. they pay for replacements but not labor).
Despite the fact that most people leave reviews only when they are dissatisfied (and people with positive experiences rarely do), York still has plenty of positive reviews too. Satisfied customers mentioned their units’ longevity, reliability, and high quality.
Features To Consider for York Air Conditioners
As you comb through your options, don’t forget to consider your home’s cooling needs. York provides an array of features to accommodate varying needs, but it’s essential to weigh the needs of your home before selecting a new air conditioner. Here are a few aspects to remember as you sort through your options:
- SEER2 rating: York offers AC units with efficiency ratings between 13.4 SEER2 and 20 SEER2, so there’s something to accommodate a range of needs.
- Capacity: Like most brands, York offers AC units in varying sizes, ranging from 1.5 tons to 5 tons. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends 20 BTUs (British thermal units) of cooling output per square foot of living space, so choose the size that matches your home’s cooling needs.
- Physical size: While most of the models in York’s lineup feature small footprints, don’t forget to double-check the size requirements or constraints before purchasing one to ensure it fits where you want to place it.
- Warranty: York offers 10-year parts warranties on all its air conditioners, but the compressor coverage varies by model. Some models feature ten years of coverage, while others receive a lifetime of warranty protection.
- Blower Type: York’s air conditioning units feature single-stage, two-stage, and variable capacity blowers.
- Location and climate: Certain climates, particularly those of the Southwest and Southeast, have more extreme temperatures, while others (the Northern U.S.) have milder temperatures. Choose a model that matches your area’s DOE energy efficiency requirements.
- Budget: While York’s models are known for their below-average prices, its premium models feature higher prices. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the brand’s LX lineup is likely your best bet.
So, Is a York Air Conditioner Worth It for Your Home?
After careful research and consideration, we think York air conditioners can be the ideal cooling solution for some homes.
However, although a York central air conditioner might be suitable for some homes, it might not be compatible with the expectations of all homeowners. For example, if you prefer cutting-edge technology and exceptionally high efficiency ratings, you likely won’t find them in York’s lineup.
For some folks, York AC units like the YC2F or YXV are the perfect fit. They offer solid efficiency ratings, decent reliability, and affordable value, making them an excellent choice for some homeowners. But ultimately, the choice is yours!
FAQs About York Air Conditioners
Is York AC a good brand?
York is a recognized name in the HVAC industry, known for affordable air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and ductless split systems. While the brand gets a bad rap in some areas, plenty of homeowners report satisfaction with York’s products.
How long will a York air conditioner last?
Like most ACs, York equipment usually lasts between 15 and 20 years. Of course, lifespan hinges on various factors, like use frequency, care, and routine AC maintenance. Without proper upkeep, the unit is unlikely to last 20 years, much less 10. However, if you care for the system properly, it might exceed the projected lifespan – it all depends on factors specific to your home and location.
How efficient is a York air conditioner?
The efficiency of York’s air conditioners hinges on the model you purchase. If you buy York’s least efficient model, with a rating of 13.4 SEER2, you’ll consume far more energy than its most efficient model, which has a rating of 20 SEER2. So, it all depends on the model you choose.
What is the best York AC unit?
The best York AC unit for your home hinges on your needs, preferences, and budget. For example, if you’re looking for a simple, decently efficient unit at an affordable cost, York’s YC2F 15.2 model is a strong choice. The unit balances value with efficiency, making it a good choice for this particular scenario.
Conversely, if you prefer the convenience and comfort of a more efficient and high-tech system, you’ll probably be better off with York’s YXV 20 SEER2 unit. This model features all of York’s bells and whistles, making it a suitable choice for this situation. Ultimately, though, it depends on you.
Methodology: How We Ranked York And Other Air Conditioner Brands
The experts at Today’s Homeowner provide only the most transparent and accurate information for all your home improvement needs. Our reviews of HVAC companies focus on what matters most to homeowners, including efficiency, sound ratings, cost, and more.
To gather our information, our experts review publicly available information, gather quotes, speak with HVAC contractors, and analyze consumer reviews.
A company can score a total of 100 points across five categories. This score is then converted into a five-star scale. We studied dozens of the best air conditioner brands to develop the following rating methodology:
- Affordability (20 points): Material and labor costs are the two most important factors in assessing affordability. However, we consider more than just these factors and evaluate how air conditioner brands accommodate a range of budgets.
- Efficiency (25 points): An air conditioner’s efficiency directly affects your monthly energy bills. We look to see if air conditioner brands offer high-efficiency units and ensure each unit passes the minimum SEER and EER requirements for each region.
- Sound Rating (20 points): The best air conditioners can cool your home with little to no sound. We rate air conditioner brands based on how quiet their systems are. Companies that offer air conditioners that produce fewer than 57 decibels do the best in this category.
- Products (25 points): We evaluate the company’s brands and whether they offer multiple equipment options and high-efficiency units. Companies that offer split-system, packaged systems, ductless systems, heat pumps, portable units, and window air conditioners score the best in this category.
- Warranty (10 points): The best air conditioner brands back up their products and services with extensive warranties. We research each company’s material and workmanship warranties and evaluate them based on comprehensiveness and length.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
