PROFESSIONAL HVAC TECHNICIANSAir Conditioning Installation

The Infinity Series is Carrier’s top-of-the-line AC.

When I install an Infinity central AC or mini-split, I know I’m putting in the best Carrier has to offer in terms of comfort and tech.

These are the most efficient and quietest units Carrier makes.

Here’s my take on Infinity series benefits:

• Exceptional Energy Efficiency: Infinity systems deliver extremely high SEER2 ratings – up to about 24 SEER2 on the latest Infinity central AC units​. (That’s roughly equivalent to 26 SEER in older terms​) In real life, that means they sip electricity. The Infinity variable-speed compressor can modulate anywhere from 25% to 100% capacity to give just the right amount of cooling​. It’s like your car’s cruise control for cooling – no wasted energy, just steady operation. The ductless Infinity mini-splits take efficiency even further: one model is rated up to 28.5 SEER2 (around 42 SEER!)​\, which is pretty astounding. As a tech, I love this because homeowners see noticeably lower bills and consistent comfort.

• Smart Controls & Advanced Features: Infinity is all about high-tech comfort. The Infinity central AC communicates with the Infinity System Control thermostat – a smart touchscreen thermostat that optimizes the system’s performance. You get features like zoning, advanced scheduling, and even remote access via Wi‑Fi or apps. Carrier specifically designed the Infinity line to integrate with smart home setups​. On the ductless side, Infinity series mini-split indoor units come with built-in Wi-Fi for app control, so you can tweak the temperature from your phone anywhere​. They even have an occupancy sensor that detects people in the room and directs airflow away from them to avoid drafts – a very cool feature that impresses both me and homeowners. It’s clear the Infinity line is cutting-edge in convenience.

• Whisper-Quiet Operation: One of the first things I notice (and homeowners appreciate) about Infinity units is how quiet they are. The top-tier Infinity central ACs are engineered with sound-dampening measures (like insulated compressors and a fully louvered cabinet) to run extremely quietly​ – often much quieter than older standard units. Instead of the loud “clunk” and constant buzz of a traditional AC, an Infinity unit often hums along so softly you might not realize it’s running. The variable-speed compressor usually runs on lower speeds most of the time, which keeps sound levels low. Infinity ductless systems are also amazingly silent. The indoor unit can be whisper quiet (on the order of 25–30 dB, about library noise level), and the outdoor mini-split unit operates around 55 dB at low speed​ – that’s quieter than a normal conversation. As a technician who has stood next to these running, I can vouch that they’re one of the quietest cooling options you can get.

• Superior Comfort (Temperature & Humidity Control): Because of the variable-speed (inverter) compressor and sophisticated controls, Infinity systems excel at maintaining steady temperatures and proper humidity. They can run longer, slower cooling cycles, which pulls more humidity out and prevents the big temperature swings you might get with simpler units. Carrier’s marketing aside, I see this in the field: an Infinity AC with Greenspeed® Intelligence will keep the home within a very tight temperature range and comfortable humidity level by automatically adjusting its output in tiny increments​. Homeowners often comment how the air feels “just right” all the time – no hot or cold spikes. It’s the kind of comfort you notice especially if you’re picky about climate control (I admit, I am!). For ductless Infinity, you also get premium comfort features; for example, the system can ramp up or down quickly to meet changing conditions, and it’s designed to handle extreme outside temperatures while still keeping indoors comfy.

• Installation & Setup: Installing an Infinity system is a bit like working on a luxury car – it’s high-end equipment that needs careful setup, but the results are worth it. The central Infinity AC is a communicating system, meaning the outdoor unit, indoor unit (coil or fan coil), and thermostat all “talk” to each other. As a tech, I make sure the Infinity control is wired properly (usually a special communication wire) and configure the system so everything is optimized. It’s not hard for a pro, but it’s more involved than a basic on/off unit. The nice thing is, once set up, the system often self-adjusts settings and can even alert you or the dealer of any issues – very smart. Ductless Infinity mini-splits are actually straightforward to install; they mount like any other mini-split (no ductwork needed, just a small hole for refrigerant lines). In fact, Carrier emphasizes that these inverter mini-splits use flexible tubing and simple connections, making them easy to fit in places traditional ducted systems can’. I’ve put Infinity ductless units in home additions and older houses with zero existing ductwork – installation is quick and minimally invasive. The only “extra” with Infinity ductless might be setting up the Wi-Fi control, but that’s usually just connecting the unit to the home’s network via an app.

• Maintenance & Reliability: Despite all the tech, Infinity series units are built to last. Carrier uses high-grade components in these. The outdoor AC cabinets are robust – steel with that louvered grill all around (as you see in the image above) which protects the coils from impacts and debris. (Higher-tier units like Infinity and Performance have these louvered coil guards, whereas the Comfort series often has a simpler wire grille – the louvered design definitely offers more protection for long-term durability.) In our Florida climate, that matters to keep the fins from getting damaged by lawn equipment, kids, or hail. Maintenance for an Infinity central AC isn’t much different than others – you still need to change filters, keep the outdoor coil clean, and have it serviced annually. The nice part is the Infinity thermostat can give reminders for things like filter changes or tune-ups. Ductless Infinity units have washable filters in each indoor unit that should be cleaned periodically (I usually show homeowners how to do this – it’s easy). Their inverter-driven compressors ramp up gently, so there’s less on/off stress, which can mean less wear and tear over time. In my experience, if you take care of an Infinity system, it will provide many years of trouble-free service – and Carrier backs it with a 10-year parts warranty, just like the other series​.

  Ideal For: Those who want the best and are willing to invest in a premium system. If you crave top-notch efficiency, ultra-quiet operation, smart home integration, and precise comfort, the Infinity series (central AC or mini-split) is ideal. I often recommend it to homeowners who plan to stay long-term and really value a comfortable home environment – the energy savings and comfort payoff over the years make it worthwhile. It’s not the cheapest upfront, but as I like to say, “Infinity is the Cadillac of Carrier ACs” – it’s loaded with features.

Next up is the Carrier Performance Series, which I consider the mid-range sweet spot.

These units strike a nice balance between the high-end bells and whistles of Infinity and the simplicity of the Comfort line.

Whether it’s a central AC or a ductless system, Performance series gives you solid efficiency, some advanced features, and a more moderate price point.

Here’s what stands out to me about Performance series units:

• Strong Energy Efficiency (but not ultra-high): Performance series central air conditioners still offer high efficiency – many are ENERGY STAR® certified and reach up to around 17 SEER2 (which was about 18–19 SEER in old rating)​. That’s a big jump in efficiency if you’re upgrading from an older 10 SEER unit, for example, and it means noticeable savings on your cooling bills, just not quite as low as Infinity’s top models. The Performance 17 two-stage AC is a popular one: up to 17 SEER2 and it has a two-stage compressor​. Two-stage means it can run at a lower stage most of the time for efficiency and kick into high only on really hot days – giving you some of the energy benefit of variable speed at a lower cost. In the ductless realm, Performance series mini-splits actually have a wide range of efficiencies depending on the model. Some Performance outdoor units are rated in the mid-20s for SEER (I’ve seen models around 25–28 SEER)​, while some of the more economy Performance models are around 16–17 SEER​. This line has the broadest selection, so you can pick a unit that fits your efficiency goals and budget. The key point: you can get very efficient cooling without going all-in on the premium Infinity price – a nice middle ground.

• Comfort Features – Two-Stage and Inverter Options: One thing I like about the Performance series is that it includes units with more advanced compressors than just single-stage. For central ACs, the top Performance models use two-stage compressors, which provides better comfort and humidity control than a single-stage. At low speed, they run longer, steadier cycles – keeping you cool and dry in the summer without frequent on-off cycling​. It’s a noticeable comfort upgrade in muggy weather (and as a Floridian, I can attest to the difference in humidity control). Some newer Performance units might even have variable-speed/inverter technology in select models (Carrier had a Performance 19VS a while back). It’s not as common as in Infinity, but the fact that the Performance line has options for more advanced compressors and even a compact unit for tight spaces​ gives you flexibility. Ductless Performance mini-splits similarly offer comfort-enhancing tech: they’re all inverter-driven (so they modulate like Infinity, just usually not as hyper-refined). They also come in many indoor unit styles – high wall, ceiling cassettes, floor consoles, etc., to fit your decor and comfort needs. This flexibility lets you customize comfort room by room, which is a big benefit of Performance series ductless – you can do a multi-zone setup with a single outdoor unit supporting multiple indoor units of various types​. In summary, Performance series gives you reliable, even cooling and some nice extras, without going fully high-end.

• Noise Levels: Performance series units are generally quiet, though not as whisper-quiet as Infinity. For example, the Performance 17 central AC I mentioned has a sound level down to about 71 dB​. In practical terms, that’s the sound of a conversation or background music – you’ll hear it when you’re outside near the unit, but it’s not offensive or overly loud. On low stage, the two-stage models are quieter than when they ramp up to full. They typically lack the extra sound blanket or ultra-silent fan designs of Infinity, but Carrier still builds them with noise in mind (the fans are balanced, the compressors are quality). Indoors, you’ll find it easy to live with – the blower noise will depend on your indoor furnace or air handler, which if paired properly can be two-speed or variable to keep air noise down. For ductless Performance mini-splits, many of the single-zone outdoor units operate in the low-to-mid 50 dB range at low speed​, which is quite quiet (roughly akin to a quiet refrigerator hum). Some of the more powerful multi-zone ones can be in the 60s dB at full tilt​– a bit louder, but since they’re outside it’s usually fine. The indoor units for Performance line are typically around mid-20s to 30 dB on their quiet settings (just a gentle whoosh of air). So overall, noise isn’t much of an issue with the Performance series – they’re designed to be pretty discreet. I often tell customers it’s “quiet comfort” – not silent, but you won’t be shouting over the AC.

• Controls & Smart Features: Unlike the Infinity line, the Performance series doesn’t require a proprietary controller – which some folks actually prefer for simplicity. A Performance central AC will work just fine with a standard thermostat (Programmable, Wi-Fi thermostat, Alexa-enabled, you name it). So you can still have smart controls, they’re just not built into the unit – you’d add, say, a Carrier Wi-Fi thermostat or an Ecobee/Nest to get remote control and scheduling. (Carrier’s own mid-range thermostats or the newer Carrier Côr thermostats can handle two-stage systems and offer Wi-Fi app control.) This means you have flexibility in how “smart” you want to get. On the ductless side, Performance series mini-splits usually come with a handheld remote for each indoor unit, and many models offer an optional Wi-Fi adapter if you want to control them through an app. The Performance indoor units don’t typically have the motion sensing or built-in Wi-Fi of Infinity, but you can still set temperatures, fan speeds, timers, etc., easily. Essentially, you get moderate tech features – enough for convenience (and certainly an upgrade over old school systems), but not the full automation or integration the Infinity boasts.

• Installation & Flexibility: From an install perspective, I find the Performance series to be straightforward. A Performance central AC is usually a more standard install – wiring up the two-stage or single-stage thermostat, connecting the outdoor unit to the indoor coil or air handler, and so on. There’s no special communicating protocol to worry about in most cases, which can make it a bit quicker to set up than Infinity. Performance units also often use the same footprint or similar connections as older Carrier/Bryant models, so retrofits can be smooth. One neat thing: Carrier’s Performance line includes a compact central AC unit (a smaller, cube-shaped unit) that’s great for tight spaces or zero-lot-line homes​. I’ve installed a couple of those in places where a normal tall unit wouldn’t fit – so that flexibility is a plus if your home has space constraints. Ductless Performance systems, as mentioned, are highly flexible for installation: you can mix and match indoor unit types and even do multi-zone setups. If you’re adding cooling to, say, three bedrooms, a Performance multi-zone mini-split can be installed with one outdoor unit feeding three indoor units – much cleaner than putting a window AC in each room and more efficient too. Overall, the Performance series shines in versatility – it’s a bit of a toolkit that we can configure to your home’s needs without a lot of fuss.

• Maintenance & Durability: Performance series equipment, in my experience, is reliable and solidly built. You’re getting a lot of Carrier’s quality here. Many Performance outdoor units come with durable galvanized steel cabinets and louvered coil guards (similar to Infinity) to protect against weather and impacts. They might not have all the corrosion-resistant coating extras of Infinity, but in practice I’ve seen Performance units last 15+ years easily with routine maintenance. Upkeep is pretty standard: change filters (for central systems, the filter in your return grille or furnace; for mini-splits, wash out the indoor unit filters every month or two), keep the outdoor condenser clean, and have a yearly check-up. One difference from Infinity is that Performance units don’t have as advanced self-diagnostics, so it’s on the homeowner or tech to catch issues early – but since the tech is simpler, there’s a bit less that can glitch out too. For example, a two-stage compressor unit has fewer electronics than a fully variable one. I also advise customers that since Performance ACs cycle on/off more than Infinity, components like contactors and capacitors may need replacing a bit sooner (those are minor electrical parts that wear with each start/stop). However, that’s normal AC wear and tear – nothing alarming. Carrier gives the same 10-year parts warranty on the Performance series, which shows they stand behind the durability. I’ve seen plenty of older Carrier Performance (or its sister brand Bryant “Preferred” series) units chug along well past a decade without major issues.

  Ideal For: Homeowners looking for a balance of efficiency, comfort, and cost. I often recommend Performance series to folks who want a step up from basic – maybe you want lower energy bills and nicer features, but you don’t absolutely need the top-tier system. It’s great for families who plan to stay in the home a while and appreciate comfort, but also keep an eye on budget. For ductless, if you need a multi-room solution or have a unique install scenario, the Performance line’s flexibility is a big selling point (multiple styles and multi-zone options). In short, Performance = value and versatility. It’s like the reliable mid-range sedan of HVAC – comfortable, efficient, and worth the money without going into luxury pricing.

Last but not least is the Carrier Comfort Series.

This is Carrier’s most economical line of central ACs and mini-splits.

When I quote a Comfort series unit, I frame it as the “no-frills, just dependable cooling” option.

It’s perfect for those on a tighter budget or simply looking for straightforward, effective air conditioning.

Despite being the budget line, Comfort series units are still solid (it’s a Carrier, after all) and get the job done.

Let’s go through their benefits and key differences:

A Carrier Comfort series ductless mini-split outdoor unit (cooling-only model). It’s compact and easy to install, making it a great budget option for single-zone cooling needs.

• Good Efficiency for the Price: Comfort series central air conditioners offer moderate energy efficiency – typically up to around 16 SEER2 (which used to be ~16-17 SEER)​. They aren’t the highest SEER ratings in the market, but they do meet current standards and will be a huge improvement if you’re replacing an older AC that might be 10 SEER or less. Carrier describes the Comfort line as providing “simple, efficient and affordable cooling”, and that’s spot on. You can expect energy savings but maybe not qualifying for the biggest utility rebates (which often favor 18+ SEER units). For many average homes, up to 16 SEER2 is perfectly adequate and hits a sweet spot of cost vs. efficiency. On the mini-split side, the Comfort series actually delivers surprisingly high efficiency for a budget range: the Comfort AC-only mini-split unit (Cooling-only 37MHRAC) is rated up to 22.2 SEER2​! That’s “premium” cooling efficiency by Carrier’s own labeling​, and roughly equivalent to high teens SEER in old terms, which is very respectable. The Comfort heat pump mini-split (~38MHRBQ) is around 19.8 SEER​. What this means practically is that even if you go with the Comfort line, you’re still getting an efficient system – maybe not the ultra efficiency of Infinity, but you won’t be stuck with an energy hog either. It’s budget-friendly cooling that won’t break the bank on upfront cost or your electric bill.

• Basic Operation (Single-Stage Compressors): All Comfort series central AC units use a single-stage compressor​. In plain language, that means the AC is either ON at full blast or OFF – there’s no in-between modulation. This is standard for many budget units and it works just fine; however, you will notice a bit more temperature fluctuation compared to two-stage or variable systems. When it’s on, it’s pushing maximum cool air, then it shuts off completely until the thermostat calls again. From a comfort standpoint, you might feel a stronger rush of cold air when it kicks in, and there could be slight swings of a degree or two in room temp before it cycles on again. It also might not remove humidity quite as well as a longer-running variable system in extremely humid climates, but pairing it with the right indoor coil/furnace blower and running the fan a bit longer can help. As a tech, I set the systems up to mitigate this (for example, many thermostats have a setting to keep the fan running a couple minutes after the compressor shuts off, to drip out extra humidity). So, while Comfort series is more basic, it still keeps your home comfortable – millions of single-stage ACs out there keep folks cool every day. With ductless Comfort series mini-splits, you actually do get inverter-driven compressors (since virtually all mini-splits are inverter technology). They’ll modulate to maintain temperature, which is why even the budget Carrier ductless units have decent efficiency and steady cooling. In other words, the core cooling tech of ductless systems is inherently advanced even in Comfort line – a fun fact I share with homeowners who think “budget” means old tech. Really, the main difference is that Comfort mini-splits have fewer extras and slightly lower efficiency than the Performance/Infinity models, but they still benefit from the nature of ductless design (variable speed and zoning).

• Noise Level: Comfort series central AC units are a bit louder than Infinity or Performance, but they’re by no means unbearable. We’re talking roughly 72–73 dB at best for some models​. That’s like the sound of a vacuum cleaner in the next room or ambient city street noise. If the unit is right outside your bedroom window, you’ll probably hear when it cycles on – a noticeable fan buzz and compressor hum. Carrier does note these have “quiet operation” as a feature​, and indeed they do include basic noise-reducing measures (the compressors are mounted on rubber isolators to reduce vibration, etc.). They just lack the advanced sound envelopes or two-stage low-speed quiet periods that the higher lines have. I usually advise budget-conscious customers: expect a normal AC sound – not disruptive, but you’ll know it’s running when you’re outside. Inside the house, the noise mainly comes from the blower moving air through ducts. If you keep the ductwork and vents well-designed (which we ensure during install), even a single-stage system can be reasonably quiet indoors. For Comfort series mini-splits, they are actually very quiet. Looking at specs, the outdoor unit of the Comfort single-zone AC-only mini-split runs around 52 dB​ (quieter than the central AC unit, partly because it’s smaller capacity) and the indoor wall unit is whisper-quiet (~27 dB on low fan)​. So in a bedroom, a Comfort ductless unit will be peaceful – way quieter than a window AC unit, for example. Noise isn’t a big worry with the ductless even in Comfort trim. So overall, the central Comfort units are audible but tolerable, and the ductless Comfort units are very quiet.

• Simplicity in Controls: With the Comfort series, “simple” is the theme. For central ACs, that means no communicating thermostat or complex algorithms – just a straightforward on/off control. You can use any standard thermostat (digital, programmable, smart, your choice) to control it. In fact, adding a smart thermostat to a Comfort series AC is a popular move – it gives you modern scheduling and remote access without the unit itself needing fancy electronics. As a technician, I often install Comfort series condensers with a Wi-Fi thermostat so the homeowner can still have app control and voice control over their “basic” AC. It works great because a single-stage AC is easy for any thermostat to control (just cooling on/off). For ductless Comfort mini-splits, each indoor unit comes with a simple IR remote – you point and set your temperature and fan speed. They generally don’t come with built-in Wi-Fi (that’s reserved for Infinity), but if a customer wants, there may be optional plug-in modules to add Wi-Fi control on some models. Most budget mini-split users stick with the handheld remote though. The Comfort ductless units have the standard modes (cool, fan, dry, heat if it’s a heat pump model) and that’s about it. No fancy sensors or automation – just set it and enjoy. From a tech perspective, I appreciate the straightforward electronics – fewer things to program or troubleshoot. The simplicity also means if Grandma or a tenant is using the system, there’s no confusing interface – just a basic control that anyone can figure out.

• Ease of Installation: I’ve found Comfort series units to be the easiest to install. For central AC, these units are typically lighter and have a bit less complexity, so the install process is efficient. No need to configure staging or inverter profiles – we just evacuate the lines, charge the refrigerant (often they come pre-charged for a standard line length), wire it to a basic thermostat, and off we go. Less time installing often translates to a bit lower labor cost, which helps keep the overall price down for the homeowner. Comfort units often use proven tech that every HVAC tech is familiar with, so there’s nothing exotic to account for. Ductless Comfort installs are similarly quick. The Comfort series mini-split outdoor unit (like the one pictured above) is usually compact and lightweight​, which makes handling and mounting easy. Running the line set and drilling the hole for a single-zone system is a routine job – typically we can finish a single-zone ductless Comfort install in a day or less. These units are quite “plug and play” for a professional, and because they are single-zone, there’s no complex branching of refrigerant lines or anything (multi-zone setups are more in the Performance line). If you only need to cool one area – say a sunroom or workshop – a Comfort mini-split is a very straightforward installation. From a homeowner’s viewpoint, that means less installation hassle and disruption.

• Maintenance & Durability: Despite being the budget line, Carrier’s Comfort series holds up well. Durability is respectable – the design is simpler (fewer electronics, one-speed compressor) which actually can be an advantage, as there are fewer sensitive components that could fail. The trade-off is you don’t get some protective features that pricier models have. For example, as I mentioned, Comfort condensers might use an open wire coil guard instead of a full metal louvered cabinet. This means you want to be a bit careful around it (don’t whack it with the weed trimmer or let kids poke sticks through the grille). But structurally, it’s still a galvanized steel unit built to withstand outdoor conditions. In terms of maintenance: a Comfort central AC is as standard as it gets – replace the air filter monthly or bi-monthly, keep the outdoor unit’s coil clean (rinse it gently with a hose each season), and have a pro check the refrigerant level and components annually. Do that, and it will run reliably. A lot of landlords choose Comfort series for rental properties for this reason – they’re workhorses with minimal fuss. The Comfort mini-splits similarly just need their little filters cleaned and an occasional professional servicing. One thing to note: all Carrier mini-splits, including Comfort, use newer refrigerants and inverter tech, so even the budget ones have printed circuit boards and such. Power surges can potentially affect those, so I always recommend a surge protector or at least proper grounding – a small thing to ensure durability of the electronics. Overall, I’ve been pleased with the longevity of Comfort units; with care, they can last a long time. And just like the others, Carrier gives a 10-year parts warranty on Comfort series units​, which gives peace of mind that you’re covered if something unexpected happens early on.

  Ideal For: Budget-conscious buyers and those who need a basic, reliable cooling solution. If you’re looking for the most affordable way to get a quality central AC installed, the Comfort series is usually my go-to recommendation. It’s great for starter homes, rentals, or if you just don’t require the advanced features. For example, if you tend to set one temperature and leave it, and your home’s cooling needs are straightforward, Comfort will serve you well. It’s also the only line that offers a cooling-only ductless mini-split​– perfect if you live in a hot climate and have separate heating (or no need for heating). In fact, if a customer says, “I only need AC in that addition during summers,” the Comfort AC-only mini-split is a perfect fit​. Essentially, choose Comfort if you want dependable cooling on a tight budget – you’ll get Carrier’s reliability and a comfortable home, just without the extras.

To wrap up, here’s a quick summary from my technician’s point of view on how Carrier’s Infinity, Performance, and Comfort series stack up – for both central AC and ductless mini-split systems:

• Energy Efficiency: Infinity is the highest (think top SEER2 ratings and Greenspeed variable-speed tech – maximum energy savings)​ Performance offers high efficiency, but a step below Infinity (still Energy Star in many cases, with two-stage or inverter units for better efficiency)​. Comfort gives you moderate-to-good efficiency for the lowest cost (meets standard efficiency requirements up to ~16 SEER2 for central, and ~20+ SEER2 in ductless).

• Comfort and Technology: Infinity is loaded with advanced tech – fully variable-speed compressors, smart Infinity Controller, humidity control, and even sensing features in mini-splits​. It maintains the steadiest temps and lowest humidity swings, providing a premium comfort experience. Performance series provides a comfort upgrade over basic systems – e.g. two-stage cooling for more even temperatures​ – and has a range of indoor unit options for ductless, but it doesn’t have all the fancy sensors or as tight control as Infinity. Comfort series is basic but effective – single-stage cooling that will keep you comfortable, albeit with a bit more temperature variation and manual control. Ductless Comfort units still benefit from inverter tech for steady cooling, just without extras.

• Smart Controls: Infinity works with the Infinity Touch smart thermostat and has built-in Wi-Fi on ductless models, enabling full integration with smart homes and remote control​. Performance central AC can be paired with third-party or Carrier smart thermostats (you can still have app control, Alexa, etc., it’s just not proprietary), and Performance ductless units often have optional Wi-Fi add-ons – so you can make it “smart” if you want. Comfort series is simple – no out-of-the-box Wi-Fi on equipment, but easily upgraded externally (e.g. add a Wi-Fi thermostat). Most Comfort users will just set the thermostat or use the handheld remote the old-fashioned way, which works fine.

• Noise Levels: Infinity is the quietest – truly whisper-quiet operation, especially at low speeds​. The outdoor unit and indoor fan are so quiet you’ll hardly notice them (great for light sleepers or if outdoor unit is near a patio). Performance units are quiet too, but in absolute terms Infinity has the edge. Expect a gentle hum from Performance outdoor units, noticeable but not disruptive​. Comfort central AC units are a bit louder when running (full blast all the time can be around 73 dB) – audible outside, though usually fine indoors. Comfort mini-splits, on the other hand, remain very quiet (inverter advantage). If noise is a big concern, I nudge folks toward Performance or Infinity, but I also reassure that Comfort series noise is comparable to most standard ACs and usually not a deal-breaker.

• Installation & Application: Infinity is best for whole-home systems where you want the ultimate setup – it often involves pairing with a high-end furnace or air handler and the Infinity control. It’s ideal in a permanent residence where you plan to optimize your HVAC fully. Ductless Infinity is mostly single-zone focused (great for a particular room or area with a dedicated high-end system). Performance is the most versatile – works for single or multi-zone ductless, and central Performance ACs come in various physical configurations (including compact models) to fit different homes. It’s a good choice for retrofit scenarios, moderately complex installations, or when you need a flexible solution (like cooling a couple of bedrooms and a den with one outdoor unit – Performance ductless can do that). Comfort is straightforward – best for standard installs where budget is key. Central Comfort units are typically installed in existing ducted systems or as basic upgrades. Comfort ductless units are usually single-zone, perfect for one room or open area that needs cooling. Also, if you specifically need cooling-only (no heating) in a mini-split, the Comfort line is your go-to, since it’s the only line that offers AC-only mini-splits.

• Maintenance & Durability: Across the board, all three series carry a 10-year parts warranty with registration​, so Carrier stands behind each one. Infinity has more advanced components, but they are engineered for longevity (just use a qualified installer to set it up right). It may require a bit more know-how to service (techs use diagnostic tools via the Infinity control), but it tends to proactively maintain itself well (e.g., better at avoiding big temperature swings that cause stress). Performance is in the middle – fewer parts than Infinity, still great build quality, easy for any tech to service. Comfort is simple and time-tested; fewer complex parts can mean fewer things to break, though maintenance (filter changes, coil cleaning) is equally important to keep it running efficiently​. From what I’ve seen, if you maintain them, Infinity and Performance can easily last well over a decade, and Comfort units often do as well (I frequently see 15-year-old Comfort models still cooling fine). Environmental factors and usage patterns matter too, of course.

In the end, Carrier gives you options for every priority. If you want top performance, smartest tech, and whisper-quiet comfort, I’d steer you toward the Infinity series – whether a whole-home Infinity central AC with Greenspeed® for ultimate climate control, or an Infinity mini-split for a specific space with maximum efficiency. If you’re looking for a great mix of efficiency, comfort, and value, the Performance series is a fantastic choice – it’s reliable and you get a lot of bang for your buck, plus flexibility in configurations. And if you just need affordable, dependable cooling without the frills, the Comfort series will keep you chill and save you money upfront.

As an HVAC tech, I enjoy working with all three lines because each has its niche. I always ask customers about their priorities (budget vs. long-term savings, any noise sensitivity, smart home interest, etc.).

With Carrier’s lineup, there’s no one-size-fits-all – it’s about matching the right solution to the homeowner.

Hopefully, this comparison helped clarify the key benefits of Carrier’s central AC and ductless mini-split units across Infinity, Performance, and Comfort. Whatever you choose, you’ll be getting a quality system – and if you were my customer, I’d make sure it’s installed and tuned so you get the most out of it. Stay cool! 😎

I’m Peter from PRO Electric + HVAC, and I always tell customers that Rheem’s Prestige Series is the top-of-the-line line. These units are inverter-driven and EcoNet®-enabled (Wi-Fi smart) for ultimate efficiency and control. In practice that means variable-speed compressors that finely tune output to your cooling needs, keeping temps and humidity rock-solid. The RA20 Prestige outdoor unit, for example, runs about 13–20 SEER, and it automatically adjusts to exactly meet load. Rheem even wraps the compressor in a sound blanket, so these machines barely make a peep – down around the low 70s dB. Builders and techs love their PlusOne® design, too: oversized service valves and removable panels make installation and future servicing a breeze​. In short, Prestige is for when you want max comfort, efficiency, and “smart” features, and you’re willing to invest a little more up front.

• Efficiency: Up to ~20 SEER2 (13–20 SEER models). (Hot – even by today’s standards.)
• Compressor: Inverter-driven (variable-speed) for precise, multi-stage operation.
• Smart Controls: EcoNet® wireless connectivity (energy monitoring, remote control via app).
• Quietness: Ultra-quiet – sound-blanketed cabinets keep noise very low (as quiet as ~71 dB)​.
• Installation/Reliability: Heavy-duty cabinet with rust-resistant hardware​ plus Rheem’s PlusOne® service features (ample valve space, diagnostic ports) for easy servicing.
• Best For: High-end homes or anyone wanting the “Cadillac” of AC units – top SEER, finest humidity control, and long-term durability.

The Classic Series is Rheem’s workhorse line: solid, reliable units at a friendly price. Standard Classic units are single-stage (on/off) compressors, typically 13–16 SEER​, using a proven Copeland scroll compressor for quiet, reliable cooling. The upgrade Classic Plus line adds a 2-stage compressor (low/high) – giving better part-load efficiency and dehumidification – and is EcoNet®-ready if you want Wi-Fi contro. In person, I find these units run very quietly (scroll compressors + good cabinet design), and the composite base pan helps dampen vibration​. They may lack the all-variable trickery of Prestige, but they tick all the boxes for solid comfort and ease of service.

• Efficiency: Around 13–17 SEER. (Classic up to ~16 SEER; Classic Plus up to ~17 SEER​.)
• Compressor: Classic = single-stage. Classic Plus = two-stage (better at tight temp swings and humidity).
• Smart: Classic Plus models are EcoNet®-enabled for smart-home integration; basic Classic models are not.
• Quietness: Very quiet – scroll compressor and optimized airflow keep sound levels comparable to higher-end units​.
• Installation: Includes PlusOne® service features (easy-access panels and gauges)​. Standard warranty (10-year parts).
• Best For: Most typical homes – great balance of price vs performance. Classic fits a budget but still delivers reliable, efficient cooling.

For budget installs, Rheem’s Select/Value series (sometimes just called Value Series) is the entry-level option. These units use single-stage scroll compressors and are built with simplicity in mind. They typically run in the mid-teens SEER range – about 13–16 SEER (some Value models peak at ~16.5 SEER​). There are no frills like inverter drives or built-in Wi-Fi, but they use well-tested components. For example, Rheem paints the coil and uses corrosion-resistant screws (1000+ hour salt spray finish)​, so the cabinets hold up over time. They do come with a 10-year parts warranty, and service access is straightforward.

• Efficiency: Roughly 13–16 SEER (highest models ~16.5 SEER)​. Good for a baseline efficient replacement.
• Compressor: Single-speed Copeland Scroll – very reliable, if not variable-speed.
• Smart: Basic (no built-in Wi-Fi or advanced controls).
• Quietness: Decent – about mid-70’s dB sound level​. Not as whisper-quiet as Prestige, but still reasonable.
• Build: Sturdy cabinet, factory-run tested. Low-maintenance design (easy-access panels)​.
• Best For: Cost-sensitive installs, rentals or homes where “good and simple” is enough. It’ll keep you cool and last for years without breaking the bank.

Rheem’s mini-split (ductless) units, branded “Floating Air,” are ideal for zoned cooling or homes without ducts. The Prestige series wall-mounted heads are inverter-driven heat pumps with insane efficiency – up to about 33 SEER2 on the top models. In other words, they use very little power to cool a room. Thanks to the Precision Inverter® compressor, they ramp up and down smoothly (even using soft-start) to hold temperature exactly where you set it​. They’re whisper-quiet too (both indoor and outdoor units run almost silently). Rheem also offers Classic-series mini-split indoor units (ceiling cassettes, slim ducts, floor mounts) that tie into a single outdoor unit for multi-room zoning. These systems are ENERGY STAR® rated and built to work in cold climates (heating down to –22°F on some Prestige models​), so they’re very versatile.

• Energy Efficiency: Extremely high – up to ~33 SEER2 for single-zone Prestige units​, and all models meet ENERGY STAR®.
• Compressor Tech: Variable-speed inverter (Precision Inverter) – precise control and big energy savings.
• Quiet: Super quiet “whisper” operation indoors; outdoor units are also quieter than traditional central AC.
• Installation: Wall-mounted or ceiling/floor indoor units link to one outdoor heat pump. Great for adding A/C without new ducts.
• Best For: Room-by-room cooling or additions (basements, sunrooms, garages), and for custom multi-zone comfort. Also perfect if you need A/C but can’t run ducts.