If you reside in the United States and are looking for a new central air conditioner unit, you’ve probably heard of American Standard. This popular HVAC brand had been around since the 1920s and is still going strong today. In our American Standard air conditioner review, we are going to take a closer look at the brand and their line of central air conditioning systems, some of which may look extremely familiar.
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The History of American Standard
Andersen Standard first sprang into existence in 1929 when the American Radiator Company merged with Standard Sanitary Manufacturing. In 1967, the American Standard brand brought both divisions together under one name. The company continued to grow and expand, eventually acquiring TRANE before being broken down into multiple divisions. At this time, the American Standard brand along with Trane, is owned by Ingersoll Rand.
Unique Features from American Standard
Every HVAC manufacturer has certain technologies they advertise to help push their products. American Standard is no different, although all of their tech is the same as what you'll get from Trane.
While some features may have different names, you can look forward to features like an all-aluminum Spine Fin coil, variable speed compressors, and a smart control board in three AccuLink systems. Their AC units also have an appliance grade finish and rust-resistant screws coated in zinc.
American Standard Central Air Conditioning Systems
As mentioned, Trane and American Standard are essentially the same brands, so there is not much variance between their AC systems. In other words, features aren't the only similarities shared between these two brands.
| Unit Model | Efficiency Rating | Capacity(Tons) | Sound(dB) | Compressor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Standard AccuComfort Platinum 20 | 22 | 2-5 | 57-75 | Variable-Speed |
| American Standard AccuComfort Platinum 18 | 18 | 2-5 | 57-75 | Variable-Speed |
| American Standard Gold 17 | 18 | 2-5 | 72-74 | Two-Stage |
| American Standard Silver 16 | 17 | 1.5-5 | 71-74 | Single-Stage |
| American Standard Silver 16 Low Profile Air Conditioner | 14.5 | 1.5-5 | 70-73 | Single-Stage |
| American Standard Silver 14 | 16 | 1.5-5 | 72-73 | Single-Stage |
| American Standard Silver 13 | 14.75 | 1.5-5 | 71-75 | Single-Stage |
American Standard Platinum Variable Speed Systems
The top-level AC units from American Standard are the exact same units you'll find from Trane. They don't have WeatherGuard protection, but the Platinum 20 and Platinum 18 are both very capable high-efficiency systems. They have a variable speed Duration inverter compressor along with a swept fan blade and a variable-speed fan motor.
They are quieter than other systems as well, and your HVAC contractor will appreciate the two-wire connection. The American Standard Platinum 20 is tested at 20 SEER, while the Platinum 18 is listed at 18 SEER. Both are available in 2, 3, 4, and 5-ton capacities. There are also comparable to the XV20i and XV18 from Trane.
American Standard Gold 2-stage Central Air Conditioners
The next step down from American Standard is their 2-stage lineup. There is only one unit in this series with the Gold 17, although it has a 3-phase variant. It still has the all-aluminum Spine Fin coil and a Duration compressor.
It isn't as expensive or powerful as their flagship systems with AccuComfort and AccuLink. The Gold 17 has a maximum SEER rating of 18 while the 3-phase unit clocks in at 17.5 SEER. The biggest difference between this line and Trane's is WeatherGuard and swept fan blade find in the Trane XL18i.
American Standard Silver Single-stage Central Air Conditioners
There are three SEER levels to choose from in the Silver tier from American Standard with the Silver 16, Silver 14, and Silver 13. Each of those units has a slightly higher SEER rating than their names imply, so the 13 SEER system is actually listed at a little over 14 SEER officially. They all have the company’s Duration compressor along with a Spine Fin coil and are available in 1.5 to 5-ton capacities.
In addition to those systems, there is a variant of each model. The Silver 16 Low Profile is the doppelganger for the Trane XR16 and designed for high efficiency in cramped quarters. It’s has a copper tube aluminum fin coil and is a 3-phase machine like the Silver 14 4A7C4 and Silver 4A7C3 from American Standard.
Which American Standard model offers the best ROI for your home?
After you’ve looked over a brand’s air conditioners and have settled on a line, your next step is to think about the SEER rating along with the ROI. While you can handle both calculations yourself with enough data, they are tricky to understand due to the number of factors involved. If you can come up with a few simple figures, including your yearly cooling hours and square footage, our tool will help you calculate the ROI.
American Standard AC Models Savings Calculator
American Standard Air Conditioner Pricing
| Unit Model | Unit Only Cost | Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| American Standard AccuComfort Platinum 20 | $3,410 | $5,420 |
| American Standard AccuComfort Platinum 18 | $2,650 | $4,230 |
| American Standard Gold 17 | $2,530 | $4,020 |
| American Standard Silver 16 | $2,470 | $3,900 |
| American Standard Silver 16 Low Profile Air Conditioner | $2,000 | $3,180 |
| American Standard Silver 14 | $2,280 | $3,600 |
| American Standard Silver 13 | $2,040 | $3,260 |
| Note: The cost is based on a 2.5 ton outdoor condenser, with a matching evaporator coils. The cost doesn't include an air handler, heating system, or installation of the ductwork. | ||
As with most HVAC companies, you’ll pay a premium for American Standards top-tier systems in the Platinum line. Their Gold and Silver units are their most affordable options, and as you might suspect, have pricing in-line with Trane's AC systems. In fact, unlike companies like UTC, which have different pricing for similar brands under their umbrella, prices largely stay the same with American Standard and Trane.
American Standard AC Size & Cost Calculator
American Standard Customer Care Dealers
If you are interested in an American Standard AC unit, the best place to narrow down pricing and pick up a system is from one of the company's Customer Care Dealers. These HVAC specialists are handpicked by the company, and excel in key areas like customer service while ensuring your system achieves the highest efficiency. You can usually make an appointment online with one of these dealers, and they can also help you out with our next area.
American Standard Savings Programs & Tax Credits
American Standard will also help you find financing for your new air conditioning system. You will need to contact a dealer for that information, however, as they don't provide any details online like other HVAC companies.
They do have a section on their official website with promotion and rebate information. From here, you can find rebates for equipment based on your zip code or access sales events, which are held throughout the year. Tax credits are available as well, but only if you purchase a geothermal unit.
American Standard Air Conditioner Warranties
Each unit that ships from American Standard comes with a base warranty. That warranty offers a degree of protection, but as long as you register within 60-days, you'll get their full warranty. It will cover the compressor, coil, and internal parts for 10 years, which is par for the course. You can transfer your warranty as well or opt for an extended plan that covers labor. Considering the cost a new system, extended plans are well worth a look.
How to find the Installer for your American Standard Air Conditioning System
Finding an American Standard dealer can help you get a good deal on a unit, but you may need to turn to an outside source for the installation. As it’s not something on any sane homeowners' to-do list, you may need to call in a pro. If you'd like to check the rates with HVAC contractors in your area, check out our contractor quote tool.
Contractor Tool
Conclusion
If you like Trane's AC units, you’ll definitely love American Standard air conditioning systems. They are one and the same, aside from the name and a few minor differences. Which one you choose comes down to personal preference given the similarities in price although both brands are higher than units from Goodman and budget-friendly brands,