What Are My Options for AC Installation?

Despite the cold and rainy winter we’ve experienced here in SoCal, we’re due for some warm and sunny weather any day now. Once the heat and sun arrive, how confident are you in your AC’s ability to deliver the cool comfort you require? 

If you suspect that your current air conditioner is outdated, it might be time to consider replacing it with a new and improved system. Whether you want a new central air conditioner or want to upgrade to an energy-efficient heat pump, let’s go over your options for AC replacement. Whichever system you choose, count on us for all your air conditioning services in Orange County. 

Central Air Conditioning: Ideal for Whole-Home Comfort

Central air conditioning systems are a popular choice for homes with existing ductwork. They consist of an outdoor and indoor unit connected to a network of ducts that distribute cool air throughout your home. They offer powerful and consistent cooling that you can rely on in the OC heat.

Pros:

• Provides uniform cooling throughout your entire home using existing ductwork.
• Can incorporate features such as zone control.
• Available with inverter technology for maximum efficiency and low utility bills.

Cons:

• If your home doesn’t have existing ductwork, its installation can be expensive.
• Higher energy costs compared to heat pumps.

Heat Pumps: Dual Heating and Cooling in One System

These systems can provide both heating and cooling. They work by extracting heat from the indoor air and “pumping” it outdoors for cooling. The reverse happens to provide heating during the winter. Heat pumps are an eco-friendly option for year-round comfort.

Pros:

• Provides both cooling and heating in a single system.
• Energy-efficient operation.
• Perfect for climates like ours with mild winters and hot summers.

Cons:

• Upfront costs can be significantly higher than standard AC systems.

Ductless Mini‑Splits: Flexible Cooling Without Ductwork

If your home doesn’t have ductwork, or for those who want the ability to control the temperature of individual rooms, these systems are ideal. Ductless mini splits use heat pump technology. They consist of an outdoor condenser unit connected to multiple indoor air handlers installed in separate zones or rooms. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, allowing for customizable comfort in every area of the home.

Pros:

• No ductwork is required, making installation more flexible.
• Provides zoned cooling for individual rooms or areas.
• Energy-efficient and offers potential energy savings.

Cons:

• Upfront costs can be higher compared to central AC.
• Needs a dedicated indoor unit for each zone or room.

High‑Efficiency AC Units: Save Energy, Stay Cool

If energy efficiency is a high priority, but you want to stick with central AC, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency air conditioner. These systems are designed to use less energy while providing superior cooling performance. They have higher SEER2 ratings which means they perform better.

Pros:

• Offers energy savings and lower utility bills.
• Reduces environmental impact.
• Potential for utility rebates or incentives.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to standard central AC units but the long-term energy savings may offset initial investment.

When it’s time for AC replacement, you have a variety of options to choose from based on your home, household, cooling needs, and most importantly, your budget. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are the main types of home AC installation options?
Answer: When installing a new air conditioner you can choose from central air conditioning for whole-house cooling, heat pumps that also provide heating, ductless mini-split systems for zoned cooling without ductwork, or high-efficiency central AC units designed to lower energy use.

Question: What is central air conditioning and when is it a good choice?
Answer: Central air conditioning uses indoor and outdoor units connected to ducts to cool an entire home uniformly. It’s ideal if your house already has ductwork and you want consistent cooling, but installing new ductwork can increase upfront cost.

Question: What are the benefits of a heat pump system?
Answer: Heat pumps provide both cooling and heating in one system and are energy efficient, especially in climates with mild winters and hot summers. They can reduce utility costs over time, though initial costs may be higher than a standard AC.

Question: Why might someone choose a ductless mini-split system?
Answer: Ductless mini-split systems are great for homes without ductwork or for individual room control. Each indoor unit can be set to a different temperature, offering customizable comfort and potential energy savings.

Question: What is a high-efficiency air conditioner and how does it help?
Answer: High-efficiency air conditioners have higher SEER2 ratings, use less energy to cool your home, and can lower utility bills. They may also qualify for rebates, though they cost more upfront than standard models.

Saddleback Plumbing Heating & Air has served Orange County since 1981. Schedule air conditioning services in Orange County, CA with our team today.