Your Central Air Conditioning Installation questions, answered
Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on HomeGuide.
How much does air conditioning installation cost near me?
A new AC unit costs$3,300 to $5,900 on average, depending on the type, size, and condition of ductwork. A ductless mini-split AC installation costs$3,200 to $10,500 on average, depending on the number of zones. Installing a window unit AC costs $250 to $700.
Most AC technicians recommend installing a new air conditioner if they are 15 years or older. Some pros use the $5,000 rule by taking the equipment's age and multiplying by the repair cost. If the number is less than $5,000, consider air conditioning repair.
What is the average life expectancy of an air conditioner?
Home air conditioners have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years on average. AC units may last only 10 years without regular maintenance.
Do the best AC companies offer free estimates?
Most AC companies offer free on-site estimates to diagnose any issues. Some AC installers charge a $75 to $200 service call, which gets credited back when hired. Contact at least three AC services upfront to compare before hiring.
Does a new air conditioner add value to a home?
Installing a new air conditioner increases home value and has a 35% to 50% return on investment. New energy-efficient AC units save up to 40% on electricity costs.
How long does it take to install an AC unit?
Installing an AC unit takes 4 to 8 hours on average for a replacement. Air conditioner installations that require new ductwork, are difficult to access, or have issues take up to 2 days. The time depends on the home's size and location, new install vs. replacement, and the central air unit's type and location.
Do you tip AC installers?
AC installers do not expect a tip, and most people do not tip. However, if they go above and beyond or spend more time than expected, a cold drink, hot lunch, or $10 to $20 tip is appreciated.
Can you install an AC unit yourself?
No, you cannot replace your AC unit yourself. Installing an AC is dangerous, requires permits, and must be installed by a licensed technician to keep the warranty valid.
How to find local central air conditioning companies?
Start by searching our list of ac installers, then compare reviews and costs. Next:
Get at least three free estimates in-person to compare.
Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.
Select companies that are licensed, bonded, and experienced.
Verify their insurance, worker’s compensation, and bond guarantees.
Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
Check to see if they are members of the North American Technician Excellence (NATE), Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), or the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA).
Ask about their warranties and guarantees.
Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
Avoid making large payments upfront. Come up with a payment schedule for work completed.
After asking questions and verifying their credentials, hire the best AC company in your area.
What questions to ask AC installation companies?
When hiring an AC company, ask them the following questions:
How long have you been in the HVAC business?
How many air conditioner installations have you completed similar to mine?
How much is your cost estimate?
Can you provide testimonials and references from past customers?
Will the technician inspect the entire system, including the ductwork?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Are your technicians certified by professional organizations such as AHRI, EPA 608, or NATE?
If my AC is under warranty, are you certified to do warranty work for this brand?
How long will the project take?
Do I need permits, and will you obtain them?
What does your warranty policy include?
Can you provide me a written estimate or contract?
What’s your payment schedule?
Are financing options available?
What do I need to provide to get started?
Reviews for Philadelphia AC installation companies
Recent success stories from people in the Philadelphia area.
Dinh
This company is awesome. They do what they say and finish the job in a very timely manner. i have had multiple full renovation with them and I have to say by far the best I ever had.
Gamboa Construction
Lisa L.
George did a marvelous job on my lawn taking down my tree stumps.
Absolute Contracting LLC
Scott V.
I want to start with them guys we’re Very professional on time polite and courteous the work they did at my houseI felt as though they were working on their own house you did a great job thank you again Niard drain
Niard Drain LLC
Nick F.
My heater went down in the middle of the night on Friday. I called these guys Saturday morning.
EMCO technician came to my house on Saturday within 3 hours after I called their office. He checked my heater and the outside compressor and found that thermocouple was bad. The whole service was really honest and the price was reasonable. Tech didn’t push any extra services and was really honest with diagnostic and repair that was needed. Thank you
EMCO Tech
John D.
Tom Madden was very professional and pleasant We have had our heat and air for about 30 years and have had no problems Tom has come to our home at various times to inspect our heater and air We would definitely recommend All American Air to anyone and have done so.
All American Air
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