AC INSTALLATION & Replacement

A new central air conditioning system typically ranges from $6,000 to $15,000+ installed, depending on the size of the unit (tonnage), efficiency rating (SEER2), brand, and the complexity of the installation. A straightforward swap on an existing system with proper ductwork costs less than a new installation that requires electrical upgrades, new refrigerant lines, or ductwork modifications. We provide a detailed, written estimate after an in-home evaluation — because square footage alone doesn’t tell the full story. Your home’s insulation, window exposure, layout, and existing infrastructure all factor in.

After approximately 10 years of use, it’s time to consider replacing your air conditioner. While the average lifespan of a modern air conditioner is around 15 years, efficiency noticeably decreases after the 10-year mark. Proper maintenance can help extend its life, but eventually, a replacement will be necessary. Our expert team at Waldrop can help you determine the right time for a replacement and guide you toward the best options.

Yes. Premium brands like Trane, Carrier, and Lennox command higher prices for their equipment, but they also tend to offer longer warranties, better build quality, and wider parts availability. Mid-tier and value brands can deliver excellent performance at a lower upfront cost. We’re not locked into one manufacturer — we help you weigh upfront cost versus long-term reliability, warranty coverage, and efficiency ratings so you get the best value for your budget, not just the cheapest box.

No, air conditioning units should always be installed by a trained professional. These systems are complex and require specialized knowledge for proper installation. Poor installation can lead to system malfunctions, energy inefficiency, or even safety issues like the risk of a fire. Hiring a NATE-certified technician ensures that your AC unit is installed correctly and safely.

Our installation estimates are comprehensive. They include the equipment, all labor, required permits, removal and disposal of your old system, refrigerant charging, electrical connections, thermostat setup, and full system testing and commissioning. We run the system through a complete startup procedure — checking refrigerant charge, airflow across the coil, temperature differential, and electrical readings — before we leave. We don’t consider the job done until everything is verified and you’re comfortable with how the system operates. No hidden line items.

The size of the air conditioner you need depends on your home’s specific requirements, such as square footage, insulation, and climate. Proper load calculation is crucial to determine the right size system for your space. An HVAC technician will assess your home and recommend the appropriately sized unit to ensure better efficiency and even cooling.

Ductwork costs vary widely — from $1,500 for minor modifications to $5,000-$10,000+ for a full duct system installation or replacement. The variables are total linear footage, number of runs, material (flex vs. sheet metal), accessibility, and whether we need to add or relocate supply and return vents. We also check for proper sizing — undersized ducts restrict airflow and make even a brand-new system underperform. If your ducts are original to a 1970s or ’80s home, they may be deteriorated, disconnected, or poorly sealed, and replacing them alongside a new system makes a noticeable difference in comfort and efficiency.

Sizing is one of the most critical decisions in HVAC, and we never guess. We perform a Manual J load calculation that factors in your home’s square footage, insulation values, window count and orientation, ceiling height, number of occupants, and local climate data. An oversized system short-cycles — turning on and off frequently — which wastes energy, increases humidity, and wears out components faster. An undersized system runs constantly and never reaches comfort. Larger systems cost more for equipment, but the right size saves you significantly in energy bills and equipment lifespan over 15-20 years. Getting it right matters more than getting it big.