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Quick Guide - Day & Night
My Opinion
Day & Night offers mid-range air conditioners. They aren't the most efficient models on the market, but I would recommend them to anyone who needs to save money up front.
3.5
Overall Score
Reliability
3.25
Performance
4.0
Energy Efficiency
3.75
Warranty
3.0
Value for Money
3.5
Advantages
Disadvantages
My job is to make your job easier and to help you invest in an HVAC cooling system wisely.
After all, it’s not every day you spend this much money on an appliance. Here’s an overview of what’s to come:
Day and Night air conditioners – Quick guide!
Ion 17
This comes with a two-stage compressor, which is more efficient than the single-stage of the lower-tier Day and Night models. The two-speed fan also boosts this unit's efficiency and lowers the noise level.
Considering its reasonable price tag and lower running cost, I think this a bargain. If you plan on living in your home for five years or more, you will save plenty on energy usage.
Performance 14
This Day & Night AC unit offers decent energy savings for a low-budget upfront price. You also get the Energy Star rebate.
It performs nearly identically to some of the more expensive models. A quality installation and routine maintenance will keep this unit humming for 10 years or more.
Performance 15
For a higher price than the Performance 14, you can buy a unit with a barely perceptible bump in energy savings (16.5 vs 16 SEER2) at the same noise level.
It comes with a bare-bones warranty: Parts are covered, but Day & Night’s No Hassle Replacement limited warranty doesn’t apply. If something major breaks after a year, you’re on the hook for a replacement.
If you get an estimate for this and it costs significantly more than the Performance 14, I'd advise you that it's not worth the additional expense.
I know that spending thousands of dollars on an air conditioner involves some risk.
If you’re leaning toward investing in a Day and Night air conditioner, this article is for you.
I'll go over the brand, point out its benefits and flaws, and help you decide which model might be suitable for your home by offering you my full Day and Night air conditioner reviews.
My review of Day & Night air conditioners
Pros and cons of buying a Day and Night air conditioner
The good
The bad
Day and Night air conditioning prices – How much do they cost?
Pricing by model
The Ion Series features enhanced levels of temperature and climate control. To optimize the performance of these units, use the Ion System Control with Wi-Fi capability.
The economical Performance air conditioners are budget-friendly but lack the bells and whistles of the Ion Series.
Category | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
Ion Series | $5,500 - $9,000 | |
Performance Series | $4,000 - $9,000 |
Cost variation across US states
Day and Night doesn't enjoy the popularity of brands such as Carrier or Trane.
So, it can be a bit of a challenge to find a Day and Night AC dealer. Therefore, the price might be higher in some areas of the United States than others.
Price variations can also result from supply and demand.
The supply is low in the north, where ACs are more of a luxury than a necessity. You may see lower prices on HVAC equipment due to low demand.
It's the opposite in the south.
How to get the best price in your area
Model | Price* (w/out Installation) | Price* (w/ Installation) | Estimated Running Cost** | Government Tax Break |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CVA9 | $2800 – 3000 | $6000 – 8500 | $360 – 440 | $300 |
CCA7 | $2000 – 2500 | $5200 – 8000 | $390 – 460 | $300 |
CSA6 | $2250 – 2700 | $5450 – 8200 | $475 – 525 | $300 |
CSA5 | $2250 – 2700 | $5450 – 8200 | $475 – 525 | None |
N4A7 | $2000 – 2500 | $5200 – 8000 | $390 – 460 | $300 |
N4A6 | $2000 – 2500 | $5200 – 8000 | $400 – 490 | $300 |
NXA6 | $2000 – 2500 | $5200 – 8000 | $510 – 625 | $300 |
N4A4**C | $2250 – 2700 | $5450 – 8200 | $475 – 525 | None |
NH4A4 | $2250 – 2700 | $5450 – 8200 | $510 – 625 | None |
N4A5 | $2000 – 2500 | $5200 – 8000 | $510 – 625 | None |
NXA4 | $1800 – 2000 | $4800 – 5200 | $525 – 655 | None |
N4A3 | $1800 – 2000 | $4500 – 5200 | $530 – 675 | None |
*Prices are estimates for the following: 2.5-ton condenser, 1300-1400 cfm air handler plus a programmable thermostat.
**Running costs based on 21 cents/kWh and 2000 hours of cooling per year. Based on 2.5 ton AC unit.
Note – Other exterior factors can also influence the price; Based on national average
Exclusive features from Day & Night
Ion system control
The Wi-Fi-capable Ion System Control puts the homeowner in command of premium home comfort.
You get remote access to control temperature and humidity settings, ventilation, comfort scheduling, energy management, and more.
You can also add an Ion™ Zoning System to control your comfort room-by-room throughout your home. (You’ll need a programmable thermostat to run the system.)
SmartSense technology
Some models of Day and Night air conditioner units (as well as some heat pumps) come equipped with SmartSense Technology.
This delivers high-efficiency cooling and heating, superior humidity control, and even comfort levels.
When installed as part of a complete Ion communicating system, your home will operate at optimal comfort levels regardless of the temperature outside.
Scroll compressor
Every Day and Night air conditioner comes with a scroll compressor instead of a rotary one.
One of its advantages is that there are fewer moving parts, meaning that they won't break down as often as rotary ones. I find that they run more quietly and offer better cooling capacity.
The scroll variety does have one drawback: It is more difficult to inspect and replace.
Day and Night air conditioning warranty analysis
Day and Night premium products include a No Hassle Replacement limited warranty, and all of their products are covered by a 10-year parts limited warranty upon registration.
The parts warranty period is 5 years if the new unit is not registered within 90 days.
You get a replacement unit if a major component (the compressor, coil, or heat exchanger) fails during the coverage period.
The warranty will be in effect on split-system units only if the outside unit is matched with a Day and Night indoor fan coil.
ACLAB Note:
Before replacing any unit, written authorization is required from the local Day & Night distributor technical service contact to validate that the unit was installed properly and that the component did not fail as a result of abuse.
Jurisdictions where warranty benefits cannot be conditioned on registration will automatically receive a 10-year limited parts warranty.
The major component warranty is scaled to three product groups:
Day and Night Elite Dealers can offer two additional years of warranty coverage on qualifying products in addition to its standard 10-year parts limited warranty.
(This is a good reason to have a professional install your purchase.)
To find an elite dealer, go here: Day & Night - Find a dealer
The 10-year warranty is in line with other HVAC companies.
However, I don't think it shows much confidence in your products if a customer decides to buy an entry-level product and gets only a one-year warranty.
Compressor options
An air conditioner’s compressor is the heart of cooling systems. It is also the single largest source of energy draw and the biggest factor in determining energy efficiency.
Multi-speed and variable-speed compressors can help with energy bills.
The higher upfront cost can be offset partially or even entirely depending on how long and often the unit runs.
On the other hand, the technology behind single-stage compressors has been around for decades. They are easy to repair and replace and are the cheapest.
Day and Night units feature single-stage, dual-stage, and variable-speed compressors.
The CVA9 has a 5-speed variable compressor, which is the only model they have that offers it. However, the company also offers two-speed compressors, which still save quite a bit of energy.
If you plan on moving out of your home soon, I recommend a low-budget unit, which would have a single-speed compressor.
You won’t recoup enough energy savings to make the higher initial cost worthwhile for a two-speed or variable-speed.
Not moving in the foreseeable future? I suggest a two-speed or even a variable-speed compressor. The energy savings add up!
Especially for those living in the southern United States, who give their cooling system a serious workout, the reduction in energy bills will be significant.
Condenser fan options
When the compressor is working harder, it needs a fan that can keep up.
Likewise, too much fan speed when the compressor is going slower can damage the system.
Multi-speed condenser fans work best with variable-speed compressors.
When looking at Day and night condensers, you will find they have multi-speed and single-speed fans that correlate directly with the compressor speed capabilities.
Day & Night categories of products
Both Day & Night's furnaces and AC fan coils (also known as air handlers) have three categories for performance and price:
Like almost any HVAC brand, Day and Night AC units will work best when paired with similarly branded HVAC components.
If you want the best performance from your variable-speed outdoor unit, pair it with a similar indoor fan coil.
The Ion Series AC will work best with an Ion Series Furnace, and so forth.
In certain cases, you might have to replace the air handler and furnace at the same time.
The good news about installing more than one piece of your HVAC at once is that you’ll save on labor costs.
Overview of the Day & Night model series
Model | Ton | Seer Rating* (Efficiency) | Noise Levels** | BTU | Compressor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
CVA9 | 2 – 5 | 19 | 56dB | 24000 – 60000 | 5-speed variable |
CCA7 | 2 – 5 | 17 | 70dB | 24000 – 60000 | 2-stage |
CSA6 | 1.5 – 5 | 16 | 69dB | 18000 – 60000 | Single stage |
CSA5 | 2 – 5 | 15 | 74dB | 24000 – 60000 | Single stage |
N4A7 | 2 – 5 | 17 | 71dB | 24000 – 60000 | 2-stage scroll |
N4A6 | 1.5 – 5 | 16 | 70dB | 18000 – 60000 | Single stage |
NXA6 | 1.5 – 5 | 16 | 76dB | 18000 – 60000 | Single stage |
N4A4**C | 1.5 – 5 | 14 | 71dB | - | Single stage |
NH4A4 | 1.5 – 5 | 14 | 66dB | 18000 – 60000 | Single-Stage Scroll |
N4A5 | 1.5 – 5 | 15 | 75dB | 18000 – 60000 | Single stage |
NXA4 | 1.5 – 5 | 14 | 75dB | 18000 – 60000 | Single stage |
N4A3 | 1.5 – 4 | 13 | 74dB | 18000 – 48000 | Single stage |
*up to
**based on normal operation
CVA9 - Ion 19
Main features:
This is Day and Night's premium option.
It comes loaded with the best warranty, plus a variable-speed fan that reduces the operating noise down to 56 dB, which is just a hair louder than a normal conversation.
No other models come close to this.
If your electricity bill is out of control, the five-speed compressor offers good energy savings.
Its SEER2 rating is the highest Day & Night has to offer.
It's part of the Ion Series, meaning that it is Wi-Fi-capable and will work beautifully with the rest of your Ion HVAC products.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that this is the priciest option.
C4A7T - Ion 17
Main features:
This model has a two-stage compressor that is more efficient than a single-stage. The two-speed fan also boosts this unit’s efficiency and lowers the noise level.
This is a bargain considering its reasonable price tag and lower running cost. If you plan on living in your home for five years or more, you will save plenty on energy usage.
It's one of two Day & Night AC units - along with the Ion 19 - with a superb 10-year warranty.
C4A6S - Ion 16
Main features:
This is the cheapest model in the Day and Night Ion Series. As such, it will pair perfectly with other Ion HVAC appliances and is Wi-Fi enabled.
Unlike its more expensive Ion cousins, the Ion 16’s warranty is for five years only - not ten.
It also has the simplest form of compressor. There's nothing inherently wrong with a single-stage version.
Still, it creates a noisier machine and doesn't offer a SEER2 worth celebrating. It's simply a good, mid-tier offering.
N47T - Performance 17
Main features:
The Performance 17 offers an advanced compressor, which helps with both energy usage and reduction of the operating noise.
It's just one step below the Ion Series units, meaning the price is budget-friendly. Still, it lacks a great warranty and doesn't have Wi-Fi capability.
You’ll reap the benefits of the advanced compressor, but a replacement might be harder to find than a single-stage version. The repair bill might be slightly higher, as well.
N4A5S - Performance 15 compact central air conditioner
Main features:
This is the sole model designed to be stackable and a fit for homes with narrow yards.
It offers quiet performance as low as 65 decibels, a quiet operation that makes it perfect for multi-family housing.
It has efficient “pass-through” airflow, which means the warm air is removed efficiently.
Like all outdoor models, it features a weather-resistant cabinet and a tight-wire protective guard.
ACLAB Note:
The tight-wire protective guards of all Day & Night units work to protect the condensers. However, if you live in an area prone to bad weather or surrounded by a lot of trees, then I recommend upgrading to the Ion Series. The Ion Series uses steel corner posts to further protect your investment.
S4A5S - Performance 15
Main features:
For a higher price than the Performance 14, you can buy a unit with a barely perceptible bump in energy savings (16.5 vs 16) at the same loudness level.
It comes with a bare-bones warranty: parts are covered, but the awesome warranty doesn’t apply.
If something major breaks after a year, you’re on the hook for a replacement.
It’s merely an okay option: it qualifies for a government rebate, meaning you can knock a minimum of $600 off the sale price.
If your quote is significantly more than the Performance 14, it’s not worth the additional expense.
N4A4S - Performance 14
Main features:
The cheapest AC that Day and Night offers yields a decent 16SEER2 for the low-budget upfront cost.
You also get the Energy Star rebate.
Ordinarily, I would steer you away from the cheapest model, saying you can spend a bit more and get an AC that has more going for it.
This is an exception. In this case, the least expensive option performs nearly identically to the few other Performance ACs.
Yeah, the warranty isn't much to speak of, but a quality installation and routine check-ups will keep this unit humming for 10 years or more.
The Day and Night brand at a glance
Day & Night started in 1909 as a solar water heater maker and was later part of the BDP Co. division of Carrier Corp-United Technologies.
The name was dropped in late 1997 but revived in 2007 and put on ICP residential products and Carrier light commercial products.
Just a few years ago, they offered 12 different air conditioning models. Today, it's just 7, and one is a compact unit built for multi-family housing.
Some retired models - such as the N4A3 - don't operate above the required energy-efficiency level mandated by the US Government (SEER13 and up).
You might still find these through dealers, but supplies are limited.
Discontinued models:
Heat pumps
Shoppers who want heat and cooling from one unit can choose from only four heat pumps - and one is designed for multi-family units.
The remaining three cover the gamut from budget-friendly to high-end.
All are good regarding energy savings, but the best operates at 18.5 SEER2.
Other companies beat that with their offerings.
Furnaces
They offer 15 models, ranging from 80% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency), which puts some in the category of "standard efficiency" all the way up to 98% AFUE, which is nearly perfect.
They even have some oil furnaces for sale.
Other products
The Day & Night catalog includes a slew of HVAC products in addition to what I’ve mentioned.
A partial list includes air scrubbers, various air purifiers, geothermal heat pumps, thermostats, and packaged units.
Can you install your new air conditioner yourself?
The obvious answer is "Yes." It can be done if you know about electronics, soldering, refrigerants, woodwork, and/or masonry.
However, my job as your guide for this article is to dispense helpful advice. Whether you take it is up to you.
So, my answer is almost always, “No, you shouldn’t install your new air conditioner yourself.”
Here’s why:
- 1Connecting the wiring incorrectly can lead to hazards.
- 2Refrigerants can be harmful to the environment and may pose health risks if not handled properly. The EPA fines for illegally venting (disposing of) R22 (which is no longer manufactured) are substantial - even up to five figures.
- 3The only way to get the proper size is to perform a Manual J Load Calculation. Unfortunately, this is a step that lazy HVAC companies skip. Insist on it, or do it yourself.
- 4Poorly sealed ducts can lead to air leaks, reducing the system's efficiency and increasing energy prices. In a typical house, about 20 to 30 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes, and poor connections.
- 5HVAC installations must comply with local building codes and regulations. Professionals are familiar with these codes and can ensure that the installation meets all safety and legal requirements.
- 6AC installation often requires specialized tools and equipment.
Improper installation can void the warranty of the AC unit. HVAC professionals are trained to preserve the warranty.
Modern AC systems can be complex, with various components that need to be integrated and calibrated.
Features such as variable-speed compressors, Wi-Fi capability, multi-speed fans, and more are still relatively new and require specialized knowledge.
Homeowner & buyer reviews
Day & Night is a smaller brand, so reviews are a bit far and few between.
ACLAB Note:
I always like to remind folks that when it comes to HVAC systems, the installation is far more important that the actual product.
Customers are much more likely to review an AC system if they have complaints.
That said, here are what others are saying about the Day & Night brand.
Day and Night stuff is fine. Better than Goodman in my opinion. -HVAC Professional from Florida
We have had our Day & Night AC for 5 years and the last 4 summers it breaks. A warranty part is on order but the company says it will take 2 weeks just to ship...Never buying one of these products again. - Reviewer Loretta Ricciardi
How do Day and Night air conditioners compare to top competitors?
Day & Night vs Ameristar
Ameristar is made by Midea in China (as of 2017) and is a subsidiary of Ingersoll Rand. Parts are readily available because these air conditioning units are assembled in the US.
Ameristar ACs are budget-friendly but come in only four varieties.
Their most efficient model offers only a SEER2 of 16; that’s no match for Day & Night. They don’t even offer compressors more sophisticated than single-stage.
That makes them easy to install and cheap to fix, but there’s not much there to recommend them over Day & Night.
Day & Night vs Carrier
Day & Night is under the same parent company group as Carrier, sharing facilities, conveyor belts, and even some parts.
Day & Night focuses more on budget and cost-friendly options.
If you need to save money upfront with your purchase and installation, Day & Night is a reliable option.
However, a Carrier model will last longer, have fewer issues, and save you money in the long run with better efficiency and performance.
The big question to ask yourself is: how much do you want to invest, and how long do you expect your purchase to last and help you save on energy bills?
If you want something simple and budget-friendly, Day & Night is the choice.
Day & Night vs Goodman
Both Goodman and Day & Night are mid-range brands offering decent models at affordable prices.
Goodman offers some of the most affordable HVAC systems today. Homeowners pay between $3,500 and $6,000 for a Goodman AC.
Their top model features a SEER of 24.5, which is about as good as it gets.
If owning a premium unit (whatever the price) is important, the Goodman GVXC20 is a better choice over Day and Night.
I can’t find anything in either brand to recommend one over the other as they are very similar.
Related article: A detailed review of Goodman ACs
Day & Night vs Trane
Trane’s products have several cutting-edge features, including a proprietary compressor and coil designed to improve performance and increase durability.
The flip side is maintenance costs for their air conditioners tend to be higher because of their specialized components.
They are also a premium brand. This means their cooling systems are more expensive than competitor brands.
ACLAB Note:
On average, you can expect to pay up to 25 percent more for a Trane air conditioner than you might with Day and Night.
You can buy Trane products only from certified installers. The installation will cost more.
The flip side is that a certified technician with experience with Trane products will perform a proper installation.
That means the unit will perform at its best and need fewer repairs.
If you’re looking for an HVAC system that’s budget-friendly, you won’t find anything suitable in Trane’s lineup. Day and Night has the edge here.
Related article: A comprehensive look at Trane ACs
FAQs
How long will your Day and Night air conditioner last?
The standard longevity of a cooling system is 10-15 years.
It’s not uncommon to hear of ACs lasting 20 years. A good installation and regular tune-ups can help you get to that figure.
How much does it cost to install a Day and Night air conditioner?
Because Day and Night is a smaller company, availability issues mean installation costs are a bit higher than other brands.
Most brands can average between $1800 and $3000 for installation. Day and Night dealers tend to charge $3000 to $5000 for their installation.
Summary | Is a Day and Night air conditioner right for you?
[usr 3.5]
A Day & Night AC unit can be an ideal solution if you’re looking for air conditioners that cool well but don’t break the bank.
They are also great for homeowners who don't need the absolute highest efficiency.
Their warranty for their top-tier models is superb.
For the lesser units, it's not so great.
And you're practically guaranteed a superb installation job through a certified Day and Night air conditioner dealer, which goes a long way toward having an AC that will give you ten years or more of cooling comfort.
