Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews | Consumer Ratings - Tempstar offers air conditioners with efficiency ratings from 13 SEER to 19 SEER. Their air conditioners are mainly used for residential and light commercial applications and Tempstar air conditioners offer split system air conditioners, Tempstar package unit air conditioners, and gas packs, and mini-split air conditioners. Select Tempstar central air conditioners qualify for the Energy Star label and offer you savings through energy efficiency. Various features of selected Tempstar air conditioners are:
Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews | Consumer Ratings | Select Features
- Two-stage cooling in selected Tempstar air conditioners
- Variable speed and capacity options are available in top-tier models.
- R-410A ozone-friendly refrigerant in selected Tempstar air conditioners
- Rugged corrosion-resistant condenser cabinets offer durability in Tempstar air conditioners
- Scroll compressors in selected Tempstar air conditioners
- Engineered for quiet operation
- Energy Star rated air conditioner models available - check for energy efficiency rebates and tax credits for all energy star rated appliances in your home.
- Lastly, a 10-year limited warranty on parts
Top Model SEER Rating
- Tempstar Warranties as Compared to Other Brands 90%
- Tempstar Quality as Compared to Other Brands 90%
- Consumer Opinion based on Field Experience 81%
- Tempstar Efficiency Compared to Other Brands 88%
- Overall Tempstar Opinion from a Technical Perspective 91%
Tempstar Air Conditioner Model Comparisons.csv
| Carrier Air Conditioner Model Comparison | |
|---|---|
| QuietComfort® Series (Premium Model) | Performance Series (Mid-Range Model) |
| 13 SEER and up to 19 SEER Performance | 13 SEER AND up to 17 SEER Performance |
| 10-Year Unit Replacement Limited Warranty with 10-Year No Hassle Replacement Limited Warranty | 10-Year Unit Replacement Limited Warranty with 10-Year No Hassle Replacement Limited Warranty |
| High-efficiency ECM condenser fan motor in select systems | Two-speed fan motor in select systems (Recommend ECM Variable speed for indoor fan motor) |
| Variable-speed compressor operation (top model) | Two-Stage scroll compressor in select models/single-stage in other Performance series models |
| Heavy-gauge galvanized-steel cabinet with baked-on, durable powder coat paint and protective tight wire grille panels | Heavy-gauge galvanized-steel cabinet with baked-on, durable powder coat paint and protective tight wire grille panels |
| Ion System Control (Optional) | Conventional Thermostat Control |
| 56 decibels | 71 decibels |
| Select sizes meet ENERGY STAR Air Conditioner qualifications | Meets ENERGY STAR Air Conditioner qualifications for select models |
| High and Low-pressure refrigeration switches | Not indicated (ask sales person) |
Air Conditioners | The Bells and Whistles | Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews | Consumer Ratings
The top of the line Observer TXT has the ability to communicate with other parts of the split system using Tempstar’s SmartComfort TXT communicating system. This is only available if paired with an indoor air-handling unit with the same capabilities. In other words, you need to match the indoor unit with the outdoor for optimal efficiency and the ability for the system to communicate. Lastly, Tempstar says it allows for more efficiency and fine-tuning of comfort when the various components of the split system communicate with each other.
Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews: Questions
My question for the salesman who wants me to buy this unit:
- Please explain to me how this communicating system works? Maybe it’s a good thing but from what I’m seeing is that you will have to buy a Tempstar thermostat from Tempstar. If you have problems with the thermostat, you don’t have the option of purchasing an off-the-shelf thermostat to get you by until the repairman can come and look at it. It’s not a conventional thermostat that you can order online or buy at your local hardware store. I know some things have to be proprietary but a thermostat and a system that will lock you into calling that HVAC contractor for any problems. That whittles down the competition and makes things cost more. I would want to see proof that this communication system adds more efficiency and features over the conventional system.
- Does the system have a diagnostic feature? This helps make the air conditioner troubleshooting process much easier for technicians. That means it will presumably save you money in the long run because the service technician who troubleshoots the system can possibly do his job quicker with this feature.
- Do you offer an extended warranty? Furthermore, if you are buying anything with bells and whistles you will want to purchase the extended warranty that hopefully covers parts and labor. Parts AND Labor!
We list air handlers and condensing units separately below because you can purchase them separately if one or the other goes bad. The key is to get a matched set. The contractor should accommodate you with the matching for size and capabilities. For example, if you have two-stage air conditioner condensers, you’ll want a variable speed ECM blower in the air handler. Additionally, the indoor coil should be sized appropriately also to match the indoor unit.
Air Handlers | Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews
Tempstar air handlers are available in up-flow, down-flow, or horizontal flow configurations and Tempstar air handlers serve the residential and light commercial markets. Their air handlers have some options available to increase energy efficiency such as the variable speed motors. The variable-speed ECM blower motors come in two different configurations: Both are high energy efficiency however only one is fully variable speed. Additionally, check with the dealer for this option and ask questions before making the purchase.
Additionally, some Tempstar air handlers come with the TXV or the Thermostatic expansion valve that regulates the refrigerant flow in the evaporator. Units that use a TXV get better efficiency than units that use other methods or metering devices to meter the refrigerant for the evaporator coil. If it was my air handler I would want the TXV option. Unless the system was a variable refrigerant capacity system. Then you want an electronic expansion valve. Lastly, for more information on expansion devices see our articles on this subject.
Air Handler Features | Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews
Selected features of Tempstar air handlers include:
- Variable-speed blower motors available in select Tempstar air handlers - see above for available options for this feature
- Tempstar air handlers coils use R410A
- Heavy gauge galvanized, triple painted steel cabinets give Tempstar air handlers durability
- Lastly, an insulated cabinet keeps Tempstar air handlers quiet
The Tempstar warranties available for various air handlers mirror other warranties from other HVAC brands so the warranty is not really a matter of influence on the consideration to purchase the air handler. We recommend you always match systems as recommended by the manufacturer to get the best available efficiency for the system.
Condensing Units | Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews | Consumer Ratings
Tempstar condensing units are available for residential and light commercial applications and available in heat pump models and air conditioner models. The efficiency ratings for the heat pumps range from 19 SEER for the cooling mode. Top-tier model air conditioner tops out at 19 SEER. Both systems can be configured with a communicating ability where the condenser and air handler communicate via a special thermostat. Tempstar claims this increases efficiency and makes troubleshooting the system easier.
The economical Tempstar models range from 13 SEER and up with the higher SEER models using ECM condenser fan motors for energy efficiency and quiet operation of the condenser. Several factors come into play for making a decision on which system to purchase. Some people are absolutely sold on a particular brand however we always recommend making the decision based on the reputation and competency of the HVAC installation contractor. Furthermore, if you purchase the best system in the world but if it is not installed properly it will never meet expectations or promises.
Condensing Unit Features | Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews
Various features of selected Tempstar condensing units include:
- Condensing unit air conditioners and heat pumps come in two-stage models for better energy efficiency and humidity control in select systems
- Top tier model has a variable capacity
- Select Tempstar condensing units are Energy Star rated
- Tempstar condensing units come with a 10-year warranty on the compressor and functional parts
- Select Tempstar condensing units up to 19 SEER for better energy efficiency
- Lastly, homeowners extended labor warranty available for additional cost*
Air Conditioner Pricing, Efficiency, and Return On Investment Factors
| Pricing Versus Efficiency Return On Investment | ||
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | Pricing Range for Initial Purchase and Subsequent Repairs outside of Warranty | ROI (Return On Investment) |
| 19 SEER Plus | $$$$$ | 5 to 7 years depending on efficiency* |
| 15 to 18 SEER | $$$ | 7 to 10 years depending on efficiency* |
| 13 to 14 SEER | $ | Over 10 years* |
| *Many factors depend on ROI such as house insulation, personal usage preferences, duct work integrity, and other basic efficiency factors. SEER level efficiency is very important to ROI. The higher the SEER, the quicker the return. | ||
Matching Air Handler and Condensing Unit Versus Efficiency | Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews
In most cases, it is important to match the systems from the condensing unit to the air handler. By doing so, you should come close to or match the listed SEER rating on the unit. Don’t expect the efficiency rating listed if you do not match the air handler and condensing unit. Additionally, if you have a gas furnace for heat, provided the furnace has the proper controls, you may get by with only a condensing unit and a cased coil. Furthermore, for higher SEER condensing units, you will want a gas furnace that has an ECM Variable speed blower. Lastly, that and the proper controls with the cased coil and you should be good for efficiency.
Warranties | Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews | Consumer Ratings
Tempstar has competitive warranties that match or exceed most other HVAC manufacturers. They are pretty close to the middle of the road for warranty standards. What makes them stand out is their 10-Year No Hassle Replacement™ Limited Warranty. As with any warranty always read the fine print. Additionally, make sure to register within the specified time period after installation. Furthermore, always recognize that many HVAC manufacturers only offer a limited parts warranty. This means you will have to pay for labor. Lastly, if available, we always recommend purchasing an extended part and labor warranty if available. Lastly, especially if you purchase the higher SEER models.
About | Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews
There is not much history about Tempstar except the fact they are owned by United Technologies which is the parent company for Carrier.
See our other Tempstar Reviews: Tempstar Gas Furnace Reviews | Tempstar Heat Pump Reviews | Tempstar Package Unit Reviews
Tempstar Air Conditioner Reviews | Consumer Ratings
Just had Tempstar AC installed. Very quite and so far excellent cooling job.
To those wishing to buy a Tempstar… After one year you will incur frequent monthly service and parts costs. All seemingly have cheap faulty parts. This is obviously rigged so YOU will pay their dealers to have a wonderful living at your expense.
Have a Tempstar AC unit that was installed in the fall. It cools the house very well. However, our first summer use has revealed that it is a sleep-wrecker. It makes a very noisy surging sound anytime it is running. I would not recommend this unit to anyone who isn’t a super heavy sleeper.
we had a Tempstar tech come and check out our heat pump because it had been freezing up so bad the fan wouldn’t turn they told my husband this is normal and after my husband said that’s it’s not normal for them to freeze up that bad it’s suppose to defrost the Tempstar Tech which showed up 21/2 hours late called my husband a rude dirty SOB then after checking the unit said it’s need a defrost board my husband ask if they had one on the truck he said no and started to walk away. The tech had pulled a fuse out of the box for the unit and my husband said are you going to put the fuse back and the tech said FU and left. We are senior citizens and have NEVER Experienced such a bad Tech working for a company their truck say TEMPSTAR but the number we called was a Lancaster, Ohio number and the name on the add was Flannery. Never again will I or any of my family call TEMPSTAR!!!!!
Have a TempStar AC–19 years approximately and $1200 in repairs-cools well-I am satisfied.
air filter tempstar replace 23 1/4 x 23 1/4 5 incch find one model #BAYFTAHEXM2 media class 2
My Tempstar A/C is 20yrs old & I live in Florida where it is on every day. My husband cleaned the coils once & that is the only repairs we needed to do. It’s outlasted normal a/c life by 5 yrs. here in Florida. We don’t do the yrly a/c tech check-up that everyone promotes to do down here either.
We had a 12 Seer Tempstar HVAC unit installed in our all electric home.
It’s now 28 yrs old and still does a great job cooling our home.
In 2015, we had a fan motor replaced in the outside unit and in 2018 Freon added.
We’d replace it with another Tempstar but there are no dealers in our area.
I’d give our unit 5 STARS!!
I purchased a TempStar A/C unit in November, 2014. In early 2018, the compressor coil developed a leak. It was under warranty, but the manufacturer charged $350 freight to ship it to my repairman. Also, they charged an extra $80 because the repairman was not the same fellow who installed the unit. I think that was very unfair and a poor way of doing business. It wasn’t my fault that the original installer moved out of the area. And my repairman said that the company was very difficult to dela with during the process. So all-in-all, I’m not pleased with the warranty service. I’ll not buy this brand again.
I had a new A/C and a new furnace put in back in Jan. 2017. The dealer said he would come back and adjust the therom. on the Air conditioner in warmer weather. I have called and texted the dealer in Columbus, Indiana. Roth Heating in Hope, Indiana. This is a good unit but I need the adjustment. It runs to long and gets cold and then off for a long time and then is hot. I have told Mr. Roth and he says he will be there but nothing. Service I thought was going to be great from what I heard from Him. But please don’t use this company. Takes your money and is gone. Please help me find someone to adjust the problem. This would be a big help to us. The Bakers
It s easy to tell if the company you intend to deal with by staging a problem with a purchase prior to buying. If you have all the phone tag and switching to one person and another like tempt star you know you have a company you need to run from fast and far. Check out the defects they have tempt star is the Sears of yesteryear send should be out of business in 20 years when they run out if suckers
I wish people would not be so lazy not to review what they publish so that it makes sense. Either that or this fellow must have failed English.
My tempstar a/c and heat pump unit outside has a 2 bladed fan. Most brands have 3 or 4 blades on their fans. Are 2 blades as efficient in moving air? Please explain the difference in 2 versus 4 bladed fans per my comments……….
The engineer who designed the system likely picked the two bladed fan over a 3 or or 4 bladed fan for various reasons. The most important factor in the blade is that it will pull the correct amount of air through the condenser coils on full load. Second factor is likely efficiency and the third is likely noise. Lots of things factor into selecting the right blade and that is pitch of the blade and RPM of the motor along with the size of the coils and expected load at high demand. All that is above my pay grade because it likely requires either some specialized software or some seriously complex math.
Whenever I replace a motor and consequently have to replace the fan blade for whatever reason I always replace it with a matched motor (horsepower, amp, voltage – with a new run capacitor to match the new motor) and if I have to replace the blade I make sure it has the same blade pitch as the old fan blade. If it is two blade I replace it with a two blade and the same with three or four blade. I never try to re-engineer a system from what the original intention was of the manufacturer with very few exceptions to that rule. I’ve seen other people do it and it gets them in trouble.
I purchased a Ruud a/c with split gas furnace system last June. Every since day one when the condensing unit shuts off outside it sounds like a big boom. I asked a tech that was sent to check it out, if this was normal and he said yes. This can not be normal!!!
Can someone give me some info…..
I had this problem with a unit once upon a time. It eventually worked out to be a pipe beating on the case when it started up or turned off.