Queens, New York, experiences some of the most intense seasonal shifts in the city, especially during the summer. High humidity, blazing heat waves, and skyrocketing energy bills make having the best air conditioner more than a luxury, it’s a necessity. That’s why knowing the best AC brands can make all the difference for both homeowners and commercial property managers.
Choosing the right AC system in Queens isn’t just about cooling power. You need energy-efficient AC brands that perform reliably in older housing stock, pre-war buildings, and coastal neighborhoods like Rockaway, where corrosion resistance is key. Ductless mini-splits are especially popular for retrofits in places like Astoria and Flushing.
At Continental HVAC, among all the best AC brands, we install many TOSOT and Mitsubishi units due to their performance and value in the Queens market, especially their hyper heat systems, which maintain efficiency even in sub-zero temperatures. This guide ranks the top 10 air conditioner brands based on SEER ratings, user reviews, pricing, and compatibility with Queens-specific needs.
Top 10 Air Conditioner Brands for Queens in 2024
1. Mitsubishi Electric
Best for: Multi-zone ductless solutions, year-round heating and cooling
Why It Ranks: Mitsubishi’s ductless mini-split systems are incredibly popular in Queens, especially in older homes that lack central ductwork. Their Hyper-Heating INVERTER® (H2i®) technology performs even at -13°F.
Pros:
• SEER rating above 33.1
• Ultra-quiet operation (<20 dB)
• Excellent for multi-zone configurations
• Strong performance in coastal climates
Cons:
• Premium price
• Requires a licensed HVAC installer
Model Recommendation: Mitsubishi MSZ-FH or MXZ Series for multi-zone homes
Queens Fit: Ideal for homes in Flushing and Astoria with tight spaces and aging ductwork
User Review: “Had Mitsubishi units installed last winter. The hyper heat keeps us warm even in Rockaway cold snaps. Worth every penny.” – r/HVAC Reddit
Price Range: $3,000–$10,000 installed
2. TOSOT
Best for: TOSOT is one of the best AC brands, too. Budget-friendly cooling with premium features
Why It Ranks: TOSOT offers excellent SEER ratings and whisper-quiet operation at affordable prices. We’ve installed hundreds of these across Queens, especially in apartments and compact retail spaces.
Pros:
• Up to 22 SEER
• Whisper-quiet inverter tech
• Slim, sleek units
• Hyper heat systems available
Cons:
• Fewer smart features
• Limited model range
Model Recommendation: TOSOT Muse Series or Apex Mini-Split
Queens Fit: Perfect for Sunnyside and Jackson Heights apartments
User Review: “Installed by a Queens HVAC team. Super quiet, works great even on 90+ days.” – Google Review
Price Range: $1,800–$5,000 installed
3. Daikin
Best for: Smart control and hybrid heating/cooling
Pros:
• SEER up to 24.5
• Excellent smart thermostat integration
• Low noise operation
Cons:
• Installation can be complex
• Higher price point
Model Recommendation: Daikin Fit or VRV Life
Queens Fit: Ideal for new builds in Long Island City
Price Range: $1,500–$8,000
Learn more about Daikin VRV systems →
4. LG
Best for: Urban apartments with style needs
Pros:
• Stylish, slim indoor units
• Great inverter cooling efficiency
• SEER up to 21.5
Cons:
• Not great for frigid winters
• Less advanced heating tech
Model Recommendation: LG Art Cool Gallery
Queens Fit: Great for upscale apartments in Forest Hills and Kew Gardens
Price Range: $2,000–$6,000
5. Fujitsu
Best for: Eco-conscious multi-room cooling
Pros:
• ENERGY STAR® certified
• Long warranties
• Excellent multi-zone capability
Cons:
• Somewhat complex remotes
• Slight learning curve
Model Recommendation: Fujitsu Halcyon Series
Queens Fit: Excellent for multi-family homes in Corona and Bayside
Price Range: $2,500–$7,500
6. Carrier
Best for: Central AC with traditional ductwork
Pros:
• Excellent SEER up to 26
• Strong reliability and dealer network
• Quiet and efficient compressors
Cons:
• Less ideal for ductless needs
• Higher upfront cost
Model Recommendation: Carrier Infinity 26
Queens Fit: Great for ducted homes in Douglaston and Whitestone
Price Range: $3,000–$10,000
7. Trane
Best for: Long-term durability in harsh climates
Pros:
• High-end performance in extreme weather
• Corrosion-resistant coils
• SEER up to 22
Cons:
• Expensive repairs
• Bulky for apartments
Model Recommendation: Trane XV20i
Queens Fit: Ideal for homes in Rockaway Beach and other coastal zones
Price Range: $4,000–$11,000
8. GREE
Best for: One of the best air conditioners in terms of price. DIY mini-split installation and budget shoppers
Pros:
• Low price
• Compact and quiet
• SEER up to 23
Cons:
• Limited U.S. service support
• Not always code-compliant in NYC
Model Recommendation: GREE Sapphire
Queens Fit: Great for Rego Park condos and rentals
Price Range: $1,500–$4,500
9. Rheem
Best for: Budget-conscious whole-home systems
Pros:
• SEER up to 20
• Great warranty options
• Reliable for single-zone homes
Cons:
• Louder operation
• Fewer high-tech features
Model Recommendation: Rheem Prestige Series
Queens Fit: Works well in Middle Village detached homes
Price Range: $2,500–$7,000
10. Bosch
Best for: Sleek design and smart inverter technology
Pros:
• WiFi-enabled systems
• Clean aesthetic
• Inverter-driven cooling
Cons:
• Limited local support
• Moderate SEER (21)
Model Recommendation: Bosch IDS 2.0
Queens Fit: Modern homes and townhouses in Ridgewood
Price Range: $3,000–$8,000
AC Buying Guide for Queens Residents
BTU Calculator for Queens Apartments
Use this guide to size your AC correctly:
• 150 sq ft = 5,000 BTU
• 300 sq ft = 7,000 BTU
• 500 sq ft = 10,000 BTU
• 1,000 sq ft = 18,000+ BTU
Tip: Avoid oversizing—this leads to short cycling and energy waste.
Queens HVAC Installation Tips
• Avoid window units in pre-war buildings—they often violate code
• Use ductless mini-splits in brownstones and older walk-ups
• Choose hyper heat models for freezing winters
• Work with licensed NYC contractors
AC Brand Comparison Table
| Brand | Max SEER | Noise Level (dB) | Warranty | Hyper Heat Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mitsubishi | 33.1 | 19 | 12 yrs | Yes |
| TOSOT | 22 | 23 | 5 yrs | Yes |
| Daikin | 24.5 | 22 | 12 yrs | Yes |
| LG | 21.5 | 26 | 10 yrs | No |
| Fujitsu | 26.5 | 21 | 12 yrs | Yes |
| Carrier | 26 | 25 | 10 yrs | No |
| Trane | 22 | 27 | 10 yrs | Yes |
| GREE | 23 | 22 | 5 yrs | Yes |
| Rheem | 20 | 30 | 10 yrs | No |
| Bosch | 21 | 24 | 10 yrs | Yes |
Conclusion
Choosing the best AC brands for your Queens property doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Focus on energy-efficient models, quiet operation, and durability in NYC climates.
Whether you’re cooling a cozy Astoria apartment or a multi-zone business in Long Island City, there’s a perfect system for you.
Ready to upgrade?
Need expert advice? Call our Queens HVAC team today at +1 (718) 288-2772 or schedule a free estimate.
