Why We’re Often Asked About Gree vs Carrier
When homeowners request quotes, they usually expect to see brands like Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, or Panasonic. So when Gree shows up — often priced a bit lower — it naturally raises questions.
On the other hand, Carrier has been around for over 100 years and is often associated with reliability and a long track record. But even then, it’s not as commonly talked about as some other premium brands, which leaves people wondering how it stacks up today.
At Chilko AIR, we’re often asked:
- “Is Gree a cheap brand, or just newer to Australia?”
- “Is Carrier worth the extra few hundred dollars?”
- “Will I be compromising on performance or support?”
These are fair questions — and ones we think every buyer should ask before choosing a system. That’s exactly why we’re putting the two side by side in this blog.
Quick Brand Snapshot: Gree vs Carrier
Gree
- Founded: 1991 (China)
- About: Gree is the world’s largest residential air conditioner manufacturer. They design and build everything in-house — from compressors to circuit boards — which helps them keep prices competitive.
- Presence in Australia: Growing fast. While not as widely known as legacy brands, Gree has built a solid installer network and now supplies systems across all states.
Carrier
- Founded: 1902 (USA)
- About: Carrier literally invented modern air conditioning. Globally respected for innovation and commercial-grade reliability, Carrier units are engineered for long-term use and harsh climates.
- Presence in Australia: Well-established with national support, including a strong footprint in both residential and commercial air conditioning.
How this affects you
- Gree tends to offer more for less — newer tech at sharper prices.
- Carrier leans on its legacy and reputation — solid build, proven performance, and strong after-sales service.
How They Compare on Core Features
Cooling & Heating Performance
Both Gree and Carrier deliver strong cooling and heating across their ducted systems. At the 10kW level, you’re getting enough capacity to comfortably manage most mid-sized to large homes — provided the system is properly sized and installed.
- Gree: Uses G10 inverter tech for smooth temperature control and quick response.
- Carrier: Known for reliable compressor performance, especially under continuous load in hot climates.
Noise Levels
- Gree: Outdoor units tend to run quieter than expected at this price point. Indoor fans are variable-speed, but may be marginally louder on high settings.
- Carrier: Typically quieter indoors at low to medium speeds. Well-suited for bedrooms or homes where sound is a concern.
Smart Controls & Air Quality
- Gree: Offers Wi-Fi as standard in many models, plus optional add-ons like PM2.5 filtration for air quality.
- Carrier: Some models include Wi-Fi control via app, but not all come standard — check the spec sheet. Filtration is good, but basic.
Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
Energy Star Ratings
Both brands offer inverter-driven systems that adjust power output based on demand. But there are differences in efficiency at the 10kW level.
- Gree 10kW Ducted System: 3.5–4 stars (cooling), 3.5+ stars (heating)
- Carrier 10kW Ducted System: 3–3.5 stars cooling/heating
Smart Usage = Lower Bills
With either brand, pairing your system with zoning, a good controller, and regular servicing makes a bigger difference to your power bill than the brand alone.
Reliability and Warranty
Build Quality & Lifespan
- Gree: Well-made using in-house components. Reliable when serviced regularly, but local 10+ year data is still emerging.
- Carrier: Proven longevity, especially in harsh conditions. Strong parts availability and support.
Warranty
Brand | Standard Warranty |
Gree | 6 years (parts & labour) |
Carrier | 7 years (parts & labour) |
Servicing & Parts
- Gree: Parts now easier to access in Australia.
- Carrier: Broad, established parts/service network.
What’s the Price Difference Between Gree and Carrier?
Comparing 10kW ducted systems — supply only (exc. GST)
Brand | Model Size | Supply Price (Exc. GST) |
Gree | 10kW | $8,750 |
Carrier | 10kW | $8,800 |
Key Considerations
- Gree: Slightly lower cost overall, great for budget-conscious buyers.
- Carrier: Trusted legacy brand with long-term service benefits.
Which Brand Do We Recommend — and When?
We recommend Gree when:
- You want great value and built-in smart features
- Budget is tight but you still want quality
- You’re happy with a newer, fast-growing brand
We recommend Carrier when:
- You value brand trust and broad service support
- You’re upgrading from an existing Carrier system
- You want proven performance in tough conditions
It’s Not About the Logo — It’s About the Fit
Both Gree and Carrier are solid brands. Gree gives you more features for less. Carrier gives you heritage and long-standing reliability.
The right choice depends on your home, budget, and what you value most. At Chilko AIR, we install both and recommend based on what’s right for you — not what sells best.
Want help choosing? We’re always happy to talk you through it.