What is the lifespan of an AC unit?

An AC unit can typically last for 15 to 20 years. An air conditioner that has been kept in good shape with annual inspections and cleanings will last much longer than one that is neglected. Additionally, units that are used constantly will likely have a shorter lifespan, especially in areas with hotter climates where they run often, wearing down components much faster. In some cases, the cost to replace worn-out parts will exceed what the unit is worth. In these situations, you may want to consider replacing the unit altogether, especially if it’s approaching that 20-year mark.

How often should you replace an AC?

You should replace an AC around 15 to 20 years after the original installation. Even if an AC is still working after 20 years, replacing it may be a good idea since a newer unit will be less likely to break down.

Which AC unit is easiest to maintain?

Window air conditioners are the easiest to maintain. These units are smaller compared to split AC units and more accessible. Window units can easily be removed, cleaned, serviced, and reinstalled in just a couple of hours with minimal effort. While the ease of maintenance may make window AC units appealing, they are not always the best option to cool a home. Window air conditioners maintain the temperature in just a small area, whereas a central AC unit can maintain the temperature of an entire house.

What month is the best time to buy an air conditioner?

The best months to buy an air conditioner are early spring months, like March and April, as there’s generally less demand for AC units during this time, and it’s right before hot weather starts settling in. Alternatively, you can opt to hunt for AC units or systems during the fall since the hot weather is long gone, and it’s a generally less competitive time to shop around for air conditioners. There’s also a chance you can get deals on remaining merchandise from summer to fall, and sometimes even the following spring.

Is AC installation cheaper in winter?

AC installation is not necessarily cheaper in the winter, as many AC installation companies also service heating units. Due to this, it’s likely that these companies are installing furnaces during the winter. But this might not always be the case, so be on the lookout for AC installers running promotions during the winter. Consider an installation in the early spring or fall when there is less demand for both furnace and AC work.

Is it cheaper to let AC run all day?

Yes, it is generally cheaper to let an AC run all day as opposed to turning it on and off. An air conditioner maintains the temperature and humidity in your home. Turning off the system can quickly affect the temperature and humidity levels, causing your AC to have to work harder when you turn it back on. It is best to keep the AC on and adjust the temperature rather than turn the unit off entirely.

How long does it take to replace an AC unit?

It takes anywhere from four to eight hours to replace an AC system, but the accessibility and complexity of the system will impact the duration. When you’re replacing an AC system, the technician will disconnect and remove the old AC system, install the new AC system, and test the system components to ensure they are working properly. For window units, replacing them is as simple as just taking out the AC and putting in a new one—which can be done in under an hour.

Best AC Installation Companies of 2023

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

View Of Air Conditioning Outdoor Units In The Backyard — Photo:
onurdongel / Getty Images

During a hot summer, a properly -functioning AC is a must-have. If your existing air conditioner is no longer working, or you are looking to update an old, inefficient model, you’re likely in the market for a new AC unit. There are plenty of services that can provide you with a new AC unit, but the best AC installation companies have a few distinctive traits in common.

Many AC installers offer a wide range of HVAC services, from installations and repairs to emergency services and energy audits. The best AC installation companies will also have a worthy warranty on their work, top-notch customer support, and highly trained installation professionals. To help you come to a decision before you find yourself in sweltering heat, we researched the best AC installation companies with locations across the country.

Best AC Installation Companies of 2023

Best Overall: Aire Serv
Most Service Offerings: American Residential Services
Best Same-Day Installation: One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
Most Eco-Friendly: Dr. Energy Saver
Best Window AC Installation: The Home Depot
Best Commercial Services: TemperaturePro

Best Overall: Aire Serv

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 42 states
Emergency Services? Yes
Warranty: 60 days

Pros & Cons

Pros

24/7 emergency service available with prompt service and no overtime charges
Can install and service almost any brand of air conditioner
Qualified technicians with continuous training and professionalism

Cons

Installation warranty is only available for 60 days

Why It Made the List

Aire Serv is our top pick for best heating and air conditioning company. With over 200 franchise locations throughout the United States and Canada, Aire Serv offers both residential and commercial heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services. The company can provide air conditioners from just about any major brand, and even offers free heat gain and loss evaluations to evaluate your efficiency and properly size your system.

In addition to its wide availability, Aire Serv’s impressive emergency services are certainly worth praising. While many AC installers offer 24/7 emergency service, Aire Serv goes above and beyond with live dispatchers, prompt service, and upfront pricing. Additionally, the company doesn’t charge extra for overtime, weekend, or holiday emergencies, so you don’t have to worry about your wallet during a crisis.

Working with Aire Serv is a professional experience—technicians will alert you with an “on my way” text and arrive in uniforms. Aire Serv’s Neighborly Done Right Promise also ensures that whatever service you receive will be completed to your satisfaction. The only main drawback with this company is its warranty period, which only covers 60 days after installation. Despite this, you can easily request an appointment online or call a local branch to begin your AC installation project.

Most Service Offerings: American Residential Services

american residential services

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 22 states
Emergency Services? Yes
Warranty: 1 year

Pros & Cons

Pros

Offers an extensive range of services including HVAC, plumbing, insulation, and more
Technicians complete background checks, drug tests, and proper training
Financing options available through third-party partners

Cons

Services less than half of the United States

Why It Made the List

American Residential Services (ARS) may have fewer locations compared to the other companies on this list, but it more than makes up for this in the number of services it offers. When hiring ARS for your AC installation, you can get all of your home improvement projects tackled at the same time.

In addition to typical HVAC services, ARS also offers plumbing, insulation, electrical, and smart technology installations. So whether you need new electrical outlets wired, a new air conditioner installed, or new insulation placed, ARS has you covered. Additionally, the company offers upfront pricing and also allows clients to finance any projects through a third-party lender.

ARS’s “Exceptional Service Guarantee” promises a worry-free experience that will meet your expectations. If you aren't satisfied with its work, within a one-year time frame, the company will make every effort to remedy this or ultimately refund 100% of your money. You can schedule an appointment with ARS online, or reach out via phone or online chat to receive a no-cost, expert analysis of what needs to be done.

Best Same-Day Installation: One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 41 states
Emergency Services? Yes
Warranty: 2 years

Pros & Cons

Pros

Same-day appointments, AC installation, and emergency services available
Extensive two-year warranty on materials and labor
Service calls are free if technicians are late

Cons

May not offer specific services depending on location

Why It Made the List

One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning is a national HVAC company that prides itself on speedy service. Many services can be tackled same-day, whether you’re in need of AC installation or an emergency repair. One Hour’s same-day services aim to have a minimal impact on your schedule, allowing you to make appointments on the same exact day depending on schedule availability.

The “One Hour” name is certainly intentional, as this company takes your time very seriously. The service guarantees that technicians will arrive during the predetermined time window—otherwise, your service call is free. On the topic of cost, the company offers straightforward pricing with no hidden fees. You will also get a two-year warranty on materials and labor in addition to any manufacturer’s warranty.

The company also offers all of the standard HVAC services, from AC installations and heating to ductwork and air quality control. While One Hour doesn’t serve all 50 states, there is a chance you can still get the company to help out with your AC installation if a location is nearby. To get a more accurate idea of what services a nearby One Hour location offers, you can call a facility or request an appointment online.

Most Eco-Friendly: Dr. Energy Saver

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 25 states
Emergency Services? Varies by location
Warranty: Varies by location

Pros & Cons

Pros

Performs audits to help reduce your energy consumption
Will install energy-efficient HVAC systems and more based on audits
Financing available, though terms vary from location to location

Cons

Emergency services and warranty periods vary from location to location
Only available in half of U.S. states

Why It Made the List

Dr. Energy Saver is all about improving the energy efficiency of your home—whether that involves your AC system, insulation, and more. The company specializes in home energy audits that identify problems in your home that could be contributing to uneven temperatures or high utility bills. Once your home has been evaluated, the company will recommend HVAC upgrades, better insulation, or other solutions to help reduce your energy consumption. The company also provides AC installations and repairs, as well as heating, insulation, ductwork, and door and window work.

The company operates as a dealership, so while the services stay the same from location to location, the way the businesses are run can vary. Bear in mind that Dr. Energy Saver mostly serves the eastern portion of the United States but does serve other western states such as Oregon and Washington. Certain Dr. Energy Saver locations may offer emergency services and have varying warranty terms, so be sure to ask your local contractor before starting any work. To avoid any surprises, fill out an online form to receive a free estimate and information about what services your nearby Dr. Energy Saver offers.

Best Window AC Installation: The Home Depot

Courtesy of The Home Depot

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 50 states
Emergency Services? Varies by location
Warranty: 1 year

Pros & Cons

Pros

Window AC installation available with upfront pricing and easy scheduling
Services available nationwide in all 50 states
Partners with local contractors for speedy and reliable service

Cons

Emergency services vary from location to location

Why It Made the List

As one of the largest home retailers out there, The Home Depot is likely one of the most recognizable names on our list. While you can find a ton of home improvement tools and materials in its brick-and-mortar stores, Home Depot’s window AC installation services are also worth highlighting. To get an AC window unit installed, all you need to do is shop for one online and simply click the “Need This Installed?” box upon checkout. After the order has been confirmed, a professional will give you a call within one business day to set up an installation date.

Home Depot is the only AC installation company on the list that operates in all 50 U.S. states, including Hawaii and Alaska. In fact, the company partners with local contractors for the service, and the work is backed 100% by The Home Depot. When your AC installer comes by, they will remove any old units in place and make sure that your new unit is both weatherproof and secure.

In addition to its simple installation appointment process, Home Depot offers a respectable one-year warranty period for AC window unit installation and a 90-day warranty on repairs and tune-ups. Most—not all—locations offer emergency services, so be sure to check with your local branch to see if this offering is available. When you’re ready to get your new window AC unit installed, simply go on Home Depot’s online store and see its selection of window units, or request a free online quote for a new central air conditioning system (a service this company also provides).

Best Commercial Services: TemperaturePro

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 19 states
Emergency Services? Varies by location
Warranty: Yes, but doesn’t specify length; no warranty on labor

Pros & Cons

Pros

Provides installation services for a variety of facilities ranging from schools to retail
Installations are done by highly trained, certified installers
User-friendly customer tools like online booking, live chat, and tracking available

Cons

Available in less than half of U.S. states
Doesn’t offer a warranty on labor

Why It Made the List

TemperaturePro is a professional HVAC service company that offers typical AC installation services along with AC repairs and maintenance, heating services, and commercial HVAC. The company provides commercial HVAC maintenance and repair services for many sectors, including health care, retail, and educational facilities. TemperaturePro also offers preventive maintenance programs to keep your systems in good working shape and will make any necessary repairs.

Aside from its comprehensive commercial service offerings, TemperaturePro has numerous online tools for customer usage. From live chat options to tracking tools, the service is present with you every step of the way. After booking an online appointment, a TemperaturePro rep will visit the location you want to service in order to evaluate your AC system, then send you a quote for their services.

Do note that the company’s warranty policy is a little vague, as the website only lists a “standard factory warranty” as the length of coverage. Additionally, the warranty offered by TemperaturePro doesn’t cover labor and will vary depending on specific AC units and installation dates. The company is also available in less than half of the U.S., so hiring the service for any commercial AC installations may be a challenge if you aren’t located near a TemperaturePro facility.

Final Verdict

While there are plenty of AC installers that will get the job done, Aire Serv offers both a comprehensive and seamless experience. The company’s professional technicians will let you know when they’re on their way and will ensure that the job gets done to your satisfaction. We also love the company’s flexible 24/7 emergency repair offerings that are available during weekends and holidays. In the event of an emergency, simply get in touch with the company, and a technician will be over to help out—all without charging extra for overtime.

Compare the Best AC Installation Companies

Company	Nationwide Availability	Emergency Services?	Warranty
Aire Serv Best Overall	42 states	Yes	60 Days
American Residential Services Most Service Offerings	22 states	Yes	1 year
One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning Best Same-Day Installation	41 states	Yes	2 years
Dr. Energy Saver Most Eco-Friendly	25 states	Varies by location	Varies by location
The Home Depot Best Window AC Installation	50 states	In most locations	1 year
TemperaturePro Best Commercial Services	19 states	Varies by location	Doesn’t specify length; no warranty on labor

How to Choose the Best AC Installation Service for You

While you might want to keep your search for a good AC installation company short and sweet, it’s best to always keep your options open. You want to make sure the company you hire is qualified and trained to complete the installation. After all, installing an AC can be costly, so you definitely want to minimize any hiccups down the road. Consider the following qualifiers before hiring an AC installation service.

Service Area: Firstly, make sure that whatever AC installation company you decide on services your area. Many companies make this information available on their website. You should also consider if you want to work with a local company or a national provider during this initial research phase. If you want to work with an AC installation company that might not serve your area, you can always call a representative to see if they’ll make any exceptions or connect you with the closest facility near you.
Licensing and Insurance: Most states require AC installation companies to have proper licensing and insurance to complete their work. Even if your state does not have these requirements, it’s a good idea to work with a company with these credentials. A licensed AC installer has proper training and understands codes and regulations related to this process. Additionally, an insured AC installer protects your wallet if something unexpected occurs.
Testimonials and Reviews: Check out online reviews and customer testimonials for any AC installation company you may choose to work with. It is always reassuring to read firsthand experiences from past clients to see if a company’s quality and customer service meet your standards. If testimonials are not readily available, don’t be afraid to request these directly from a company representative.
Emergency Services: Sticking with an AC installation company that also offers emergency services saves you plenty of headaches—especially if your AC unit or system stops working during a particularly hot day. The company will be familiar with the brand and installation configuration and will likely arrive at a quick solution. Review the emergency services provided by the AC installation just in case you ever need them in the future.
Warranties: Most AC installation companies will offer warranties, but each policy will vary depending on the company. It’s best to consider the warranty period on both the unit itself and the labor to install the unit. Oftentimes, the warranty terms for these categories may differ. Ideally, the labor guarantee will extend for at least one year, so if anything was installed incorrectly, it can be fixed at no cost.
AC Brands Offered: Some AC installation companies only install a certain selection of brands. If you have a preferred brand, be sure to hire a company that installs and services that manufacturer. If you are unsure what AC brand to select, hire a company that offers a wide selection. If you’re truly inflicted with choice paralysis, consider researching various AC brands to see what customers and reviewers prefer.

How Much Does an AC Installation Cost?

AC installation services cost $5,800 on average but can range from $3,800 to $7,900. Generally, the price is highly dependent on the size and type of unit. For example, installing a window unit costs less due to its smaller size and less labor-intensive process, whereas installing a central air conditioning system will easily cost in the thousands as it’s more of an undertaking.

Additionally, the size of your house will play a role in the cost of a new air conditioning system. Each air conditioning unit will have a capacity measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), and you will generally need about 18 BTUs for every square foot in a house to properly cool down a space. Higher BTU units have a higher price tag, so expect to pay more for an AC installation if you have a large house. It’s best to get accurate quotes from qualified AC installers to get a better idea of what your new air conditioning unit might cost.

What Types of Services Do AC Installation Companies Provide?

AC installation companies provide services related to installing, repairing, and maintaining an air conditioning system. Installation services include putting in new AC units or installing any new ductwork, electrical, or plumbing related to an AC system. Diagnosing an issue with an existing AC system and fixing or replacing any broken or worn-out parts would fall under repair services. Lastly, maintenance services are tasks such as annual AC inspections and cleanings.

Many AC installation companies also offer emergency repairs in which a technician will visit your home—often within just a few hours—to diagnose the issue and fix it. If your air conditioner stops working in the middle of summer when the use of an AC is necessary, 24/7 AC help is critical. Emergency services are also useful in less dire situations, such as a water leak, unusual smell, or strange noise coming from your AC unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of an AC unit?

An AC unit can typically last for 15 to 20 years. An air conditioner that has been kept in good shape with annual inspections and cleanings will last much longer than one that is neglected. Additionally, units that are used constantly will likely have a shorter lifespan, especially in areas with hotter climates where they run often, wearing down components much faster. In some cases, the cost to replace worn-out parts will exceed what the unit is worth. In these situations, you may want to consider replacing the unit altogether, especially if it’s approaching that 20-year mark.
How often should you replace an AC?

You should replace an AC around 15 to 20 years after the original installation. Even if an AC is still working after 20 years, replacing it may be a good idea since a newer unit will be less likely to break down.
Which AC unit is easiest to maintain?

Window air conditioners are the easiest to maintain. These units are smaller compared to split AC units and more accessible. Window units can easily be removed, cleaned, serviced, and reinstalled in just a couple of hours with minimal effort. While the ease of maintenance may make window AC units appealing, they are not always the best option to cool a home. Window air conditioners maintain the temperature in just a small area, whereas a central AC unit can maintain the temperature of an entire house.
What month is the best time to buy an air conditioner?

The best months to buy an air conditioner are early spring months, like March and April, as there’s generally less demand for AC units during this time, and it’s right before hot weather starts settling in. Alternatively, you can opt to hunt for AC units or systems during the fall since the hot weather is long gone, and it’s a generally less competitive time to shop around for air conditioners. There’s also a chance you can get deals on remaining merchandise from summer to fall, and sometimes even the following spring.
Is AC installation cheaper in winter?

AC installation is not necessarily cheaper in the winter, as many AC installation companies also service heating units. Due to this, it’s likely that these companies are installing furnaces during the winter. But this might not always be the case, so be on the lookout for AC installers running promotions during the winter. Consider an installation in the early spring or fall when there is less demand for both furnace and AC work.
Is it cheaper to let AC run all day?

Yes, it is generally cheaper to let an AC run all day as opposed to turning it on and off. An air conditioner maintains the temperature and humidity in your home. Turning off the system can quickly affect the temperature and humidity levels, causing your AC to have to work harder when you turn it back on. It is best to keep the AC on and adjust the temperature rather than turn the unit off entirely.
How long does it take to replace an AC unit?

It takes anywhere from four to eight hours to replace an AC system, but the accessibility and complexity of the system will impact the duration. When you’re replacing an AC system, the technician will disconnect and remove the old AC system, install the new AC system, and test the system components to ensure they are working properly. For window units, replacing them is as simple as just taking out the AC and putting in a new one—which can be done in under an hour.

Methodology

We researched several AC installation companies to determine which brands offered the best services. We rated each company based on the following criteria:

Nationwide availability
Emergency service offerings
Warranty periods
Online booking availability
Access to customer service
Quote process
Financing options
Energy efficiency
Additional services

Companies that serviced several states, had emergency services, and generous warranty periods were awarded extra points during our scoring phase. Additionally, any AC installation companies offered online bookings and accessible customer service rose above other brands. Any companies that lacked in these categories didn't make it past our initial round of research.

Was this page helpful?