Central Air Conditioning Replacement
Installing New AC Units in Royal Oak and Southfield Since 2000
Coping with summer in Southfield requires a dependable and functioning central AC system. It’s even better if that cooling unit is also clean and energy efficient. After all, no one likes throwing money out the window. But it’s difficult for an AC unit to perform its best when its original installation was flawed. That’s where Jacob's Ladder comes in.
Our customer-focused HVAC company is deeply dedicated to providing comfort in the Southfield area—a fact easily correlated by our 23 years of service. In that time, we’ve replaced hundreds of old air conditioners with new, more-efficient ones. Through this, we’ve helped your friends and neighbors shave hundreds off their utility bills. In other words, if you’re in the market for an AC replacement in Royal Oak, we’re the local HVAC company you can trust.
We get the job done right the first time, and it’s not done until you’re five-star satisfied. If you receive anything less than perfect service, we invite you to call us at 248.967.4263. We’ll set things right.
Signs That It’s Time for a New AC
We understand the urge to put off AC replacement. It’s expensive and inconvenient. It's also not something most people in Southfield bother to budget for it. The idea of helping your air conditionerhobble along a little longer is tempting. But, eventually, it’ll have to be replaced. Below are a few signs that your current AC unit is nearing the end of its service life:
- Skyrocketing Utility Bills: Older air conditioning systems in Southfield are inefficient and often struggle to reach peak efficiency. As time goes on, it’ll take more and more money to cool your home. If you notice a sudden uptick in cost, a major system breakdown is often on the horizon.
- Old Refrigerants: Older refrigerants damage the climate and have been replaced with newer, more eco-friendly ones. Due to this, though that old AC in Southfield may still be working, replacing the refrigerant in case of a leak may no longer be a cost-effective option. In some cases, you might not be able to find a refill at all.
- The Unit Never Shuts Off: Though it’s normal for your AC unit to run more during hot weather, failing air conditioners often struggle to reach target temperatures. This often leads to them constantly running, even during mild weather. If you notice your air conditioner in Southfield staying on longer than usual, it's a good sign that AC maintenance or replacement is necessary.
- We're on a First-Name Basis: Even though we love our customers, those who make more than one repair call a season may be better off replacing their air conditioner. Like dominoes, components tend to fail in sequence. This often ends with a catastrophic failure or a recommendation for total AC replacement. Since quotes are free, there's no reason not to call for a quote on new air conditioner installation in Royal Oak or Southfield.
- Age: With proper maintenance, the average air conditioner can last over 15 years. But if yours is nearing that age, it’s often more economical to replace it. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates utility savings of between 20 and 40 percent after replacing an old unit.
If you notice any of these symptoms, place a call to 248.967.4263 right away! Tackling the issue head on can mean you end up with a bill for AC repair in Southfield and can put off getting a new unit a little longer. Waiting, meanwhile, is likely to lead to snowballing and worse issues down the road.
How We Determine and Install the Proper AC Unit
One of the biggest causes of wasteful air conditioners is improper sizing and installation. A lot of AC repair calls in Southfield could have been prevented with a little bit of forethought. That's why Jacob's Ladder takes time to properly determine your home's specific needs. We also will recommend things like air handlers, air filtration systems, and zoning up front to save you money on overall installation and operating costs.
Before replacing your AC system, we conduct a load calculation to determine the proper size of the replacement unit. We also take a look at your duct work and determine if any repairs are needed. When the number crunching ends, we present you with an AC installation quote.
In it, we price out everything from new condensers to updated drain lines and updated thermostats. We will also take time to discuss your budget and explore rebate, financing, and coupon options.
When done, we’ll have a proposal that ensures the system installed meets you and your family’s needs. Once all the paperwork is signed, our HVAC expert will take down your appointment preferences and get you scheduled. We look forward to adding you to our list of satisfied customers in the Southfield area.
Exploring the AC Replacement Process
The time has arrived to replace or install your new air conditioning system. It's a big day. Many homeowners aren’t sure what to expect on AC installation day. How long will it take? Is there anything you need to do to prepare for AC replacement in Southfield? To help ease your concerns, here is how Jacob's Ladder gets the job done:
- We provide an initial quote on new AC installation
- We’ll call to remind you of the appointment and request that your pets be contained
- Our technician pulls on booties and lays down dropcloths to protect your floors
- Any items in the way will be moved to prevent potential damage
- The AC installer will measure everything a second time
- We break down your old equipment and load it up for recycling
- Our technician will bring in your new air conditioner
- Refrigerant lines are attached to your main power source
- The power switch is flipped and the unit tested
After the initial test, our HVAC technician will do a few temperature checks to make sure everything is performing as expected. When diagnostics are complete, they’ll pick up their tools and remove the floor coverings. Then you, in renewed comfort, can flop back in the armchair.
What if I Need AC in a Newly Built Home?
First, let’s start with a congratulations! We hope your new home is everything you dreamed of. Our local HVAC company is proud to work with a number of home builders and remodelers in the Southfield area. So, we're often called upon to design and install new-build systems.
The process for installing a new AC system in Southfield is similar to replacing one. The same calculations are made and the same steps taken to prevent safety issues. The main difference comes during the set-up process. When a clean installation happens, we’ll also be responsible for designing a properly functioning system of ductwork. Because it’s a new build, there’s open access and no old air conditioner requiring disposal.
Why Jacob's Ladder is the Right Choice for AC Installation in Southfield
If you want your new AC unit installed correctly, you can’t go wrong with Jacob's Ladder Heating & Cooling. We’ve been helping people in the Southfield area cool their homes for over 23 years. This experience means we have the expertise necessary to properly install and configure a variety of HVAC systems. When you work with us, you get an air conditioner prepared to reach the end of its lifespan. Our simplified installation process helps make your install experience stress-free.
Give us a call at (248) 967-4263 for a free quote on AC installation in Oak Park or Southfield.
AC Replacement and Installation FAQs
Will Adding an AC Unit Increase the Value of My Home?
It typically does! Replacing or installing a new air conditioner in Southfield can raise your home's value by as much as 10 percent. This value depends on the efficiency and features of the new unit. In some markets, you can't even sell a home that doesn't have a cooling system installed. So, even if you plan to sell in the near future, you might want to consider footing the bill for an updated air conditioner.
Shouldn't I Buy the Biggest Air Conditioner Possible?
A lot of homeowners think that bigger is better when it comes to air conditioning in Southfield. But that's not true. While an oversized air conditioner will cool your house more quickly, it will use more electricity to do so. It'll also struggle to remove the humidity from the air. Though you might not like your AC unit in Southfield running for hours on end, long cycles are better for your wallet and home than short ones.
Can I Save Money by Replacing Only My Outdoor Unit?
Air conditioners have both interior and exterior components. Some homeowners in Southfield think replacing just one of those is a great way to reduce AC repair and installation costs. It's not. Having mismatched components can lead to frequent repairs, higher energy bills, and reduced efficiency. Though the price tag might look scary, doing both sides of your cooling system will ultimately save you money.
How Do I Know Your AC Installation Quote Is Fair?
We suggest you get multiple quotes on AC replacement in Oak Park or Southfield. This is the best way to ensure you get a fair deal. Do note, however, that you need to be comparing apples to apples. Does the other company offer a warranty as good as ours? Is the unit as good? How long have they been in business? You will need to keep these things in mind as you make your decision. We invite you to check out our financing page and special offers page to see what kind of deals we're currently offering.
Can I Install the New Air Conditioner Myself?
While you might be tempted to repair or install your own air conditioner in Southfield, you shouldn't. There's a lot that goes into sizing, installing, and testing an air conditioner. Beneath that shell, there are a number of electronic and chemical components. Tinkering with these can lead to injuries and even death. So, unless you have the proper certifications, we suggest leaving AC replacement in Southfield to the HVAC experts at Jacob's Ladder Heating & Cooling.
I Know I Need a New AC in Southfield. What's the Best Time to Get a Replacement?
As mentioned earlier, once your air conditioner gets past 10 or 15 years old, it's time to start budgeting for a new one. Like with a lot of other products, HVAC equipment pricing is cyclical. For better AC deals, start shopping early before summer hits its stride. When winter temperatures start breaking toward spring, a lot of local HVAC contractors may be slower and scheduling is a lot easier. It's also a period where many financing deals are offered. For Michigan, this means anywhere from February to April.
What AC Unit is Best for My Home?
Shopping for a pair of shoes online is one thing. Trying to purchase a new AC unit in Southfield is another. You should always get a quote from a licensed HVAC contractor. They have the skills needed to properly measure your home to calculate the equipment that is optimal for your dynamics. There are a few things, however, we recommend to everyone:
- Make sure the contractor installs equipment from a well-regarded brand
- If you're not selling your home, invest in something more energy efficient
- Ask about included warranties
What's the Best Place to Install My New AC?
There's no universal answer to this question. Every home in Southfield is different. Things like local codes, square footage, building materials, drafts, wall direction, and even homeowner association rules can affect selection of the installation area. For that reason, there's no secret formula to picking the right spot. We recommend looking for:
- Shady Areas: In Southfield it's helpful to try and keep air conditioners cool as well. So, if posssible, we typically place it on the north or east side of your home. If that isn't an option, it can also be placed under a leafy tree.
- Somewhere Away from Pets: Dogs and other animals like to pee on air conditioners and chew on connections. The refrigerants and metals can be harmful to your pets. Over time, urine can eat through the fan blades. If you don't have a sheltered area, we recommend surrounding it with a fence or shrubs to limit animal access.
- Places with Grass or Mulch: Most air conditioners in Southfield are placed on concrete or PVC slabs. These radiate heat back up toward the unit. The added heat can make the unit work harder to cool your home. If there's no grass or mulch around the best location, we might recommend adding some.
At the end of the day, however, the best way to find the perfect spot is to reach out to Southfield's AC service experts—Jacob's Ladder.
How Long Does It Take to Install a New AC Unit?
A simple AC replacement and installation in Southfield typically takes between four and six hours. This estimate may increase if the installation team has to flush the line or add brackets. If you want a more accurate estimate of how long it'll take to put in your new AC unit, just ask our technician. They will be happy to walk you through the process.
Can My Home Have Central Air?
If you're willing to invest in ductwork and design adjustments, any home in Southfield can enjoy the benefits of central air. But, before you call your local building contractor, give 248.967.4263 a jingle first. We'll not only walk you through the installation process, but we'll help you explore alternative cooling options as well. Things like ductless mini-splits, whole house fans, evaporative coolers, and heat pumps may be able to give you many of the same benefits at a lower upfront cost.
If you have been experiencing excessive air conditioning repairs, it may be time to replace the entire system rather than salvaging your old one. At Jacob's Ladder Heating & Cooling, our team of trained technicians can assist you in replacing your air conditioning system for a newer, more economical option.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs to Be Replaced
Following are some of the signs that indicate you need to replace your air conditioning system.
- Age of Your Unit – If your air conditioning system is older than 10 years old, you will most likely be better off replacing. Units usually later between 10 and 15 years.
- Constant AC Repairs – Repairing your unit all the time is a key indication that it is slowly on the way out.
- Cooling Inconsistencies – If you notice that you have hot spots in your home, you may not have an air conditioning unit that is the right size, or your unit may be in need of replacing.
- Strange Noises – If you notice loud or strange noises, this could mean there is a problem with your unit or leaking ductwork.
Choosing the Right Type of Replacement Air Conditioning System
The experts at Jacob's Ladder Heating & Cooling know how overwhelming it can be when you are facing air conditioning replacement. Our helpful staff will be with you every step of the way and will assist you in choosing the right unit for your home. Choosing the right air conditioning system will determine the comfort of your home and an energy efficient system can save you money on power bills. Did you know that your heating and cooling costs make up about 30% of your home’s utility bills? You simply cannot afford to have a poorly running HVAC. If you are dealing with a leaking, broken or ineffective cooling system, inconsistencies in temperature or poorly functioning thermostats, call Jacob's Ladder Heating & Cooling to install a new and efficient central AC system.
Central Air Conditioning Replacement & More in Oak Park, West Bloomfield, Huntington Woods, Southfield & Greater Detroit, Michigan
Our experienced staff at Jacob's Ladder Heating & Cooling have the training and resources needed to successfully replace your air conditioning system. Don’t hesitate to call us today for all your HVAC needs!
Jacob's Ladder Heating & Cooling
Oak Park, MI 48237
Sunday & Saturday: Emergency Service Only