How Long Does It Take to Install an AC Unit?
Learn the factors that go into how long central air conditioning installation takes and how you can navigate the process smoothly.
By Anne Fonda
When it’s time for AC replacement, you have a lot of questions and a lot of decisions to make. How long the process takes will depend on whether this is an emergency AC replacement or one you’ve been planning for.
The whole process can take just a few days or up to two weeks, depending on how quickly you can do your research, make some decisions, and schedule installation.
Even if your air conditioning system dies in the middle of a heat wave, you should do your research and get multiple quotes to help ensure you get the best system for your needs. Here are the 5 phases of AC installation.
1. Doing your research: 1-2 days up to 1-2 weeks
Before making any big purchase, it pays to do your research. Learn about the types of air conditioners, including variable-speed, multi-speed, two-stage, and single-stage. Brush up on SEER2 ratings and why they matter.
Research HVAC companies near you. Not sure what to look for? Read our blog on how to find the best HVAC service near me for some tips.
Browse air conditioners (Button)
2. Getting multiple quotes: 1-3 days
Based on your research and recommendations, schedule installation quotes. If you’re scheduling quotes in the middle of summer, you may not be able to get multiple quotes as quickly as you would in the early spring or in the fall. If you make the time to make the calls or fill out the website forms, you might be able to get multiple quotes scheduled for the same day.
Each company representative should listen to you and address your needs. At the very least, they should perform a load calculation to ensure you get the right-sized AC unit. Be leery of anyone who recommends HVAC sizing based solely on a rule of thumb or the size of your existing unit.
They should also investigate the condition of your ductwork. Leaky air ducts should be sealed or replaced for optimal HVAC system efficiency. They may also ask you about your indoor air quality and whether you would like to improve it.
Depending on the age of your AC system and the new air conditioner you’re interested in, they may suggest you replace both the indoor and outdoor units at the same time. Read more about this in our Homeowner’s Guide to HVAC Replacement.
3. Reviewing quotes and choosing an AC installation team: 1-3 days
Once you have all of your installation quotes, it’s time to review and compare them. The quotes should be itemized as follows.
- AC unit cost
- New furnace or air handler cost (if applicable)
- Indoor air quality system cost (if applicable)
- Ductwork sealing or replacement (if applicable)
- Labor costs (AC replacement cost, HVAC replacement cost)
- Disposal fees, permit fees, miscellaneous
- Tax credits and rebates available
- Financing options available
Compare line items. Keep in mind that different HVAC brands have different costs based on their reputation, reliability, energy efficiency, compressor motor speeds, and more. Once you choose an HVAC installer, do the other companies the courtesy of letting them know you went with someone else.
4. Scheduling air conditioner installation: 1-3 days
Most HVAC companies will tell you when they are giving you an estimate when you could reasonably expect to schedule installation. Once you choose your HVAC contractor and sign the contract, they will get you on their schedule as soon as possible.
Depending on what system you selected, installation could be the next day.
5. Installation day: 4-8 hours
Once the day of installation arrives, things will get moving quickly. To start the installation process, your HVAC installation team will remove your old AC unit and your old furnace if you’re replacing the whole system at one time. They will remove all debris and the old refrigerant lines.
They will then install the new unit(s) with a new line set. If your new system includes a smart thermostat, they will install that as well. Finally, once installation is complete, they will perform system testing, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
On average, the actual installation time will be 4-8 hours, depending upon the complexity of the installation. Additional work will require more time.
Maintain your new system
Whether you replaced just the air conditioning unit or got a whole new HVAC system, take good care of it. Proper HVAC maintenance will help prolong the life of your system, improve efficiency, and save you money on your energy bills. This includes:
- Professional AC maintenance every spring
- Professional furnace tune-up every fall
- DIY HVAC air filter maintenance every 30-90 days
Consider signing up for an HVAC service plan with your installation company. This can help ensure your system operates at peak performance. Some maintenance contracts include discounts on parts and preferred scheduling.
Work with trusted HVAC experts
When it’s time for HVAC replacement, turn to Trane for reliable, energy-efficient equipment. Our dedication to quality comfort solutions is why we’ve been named America’s Most Trusted® residential HVAC brand for 11 years running.
Anne Fonda, Content Writer
A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.
She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.
When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.
Expert review by Kimberly Sexton, Senior Systems Engineer
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