AC Installation & Replacement in Austin, TX

AC Replacement vs. Repair

Deciding between AC replacement and repair comes down to sound financial decision-making. The typical lifespan of a well-maintained system is around 15 years, though in the Austin area that ranges from 10 to 20 years depending on use and maintenance. Time, condition and original installation quality are the key considerations.

✓ For systems less than 10 years old, especially if they still have a manufacturer’s part warranty, repair is the better option.

✓ For systems more than 10 years old, the decision hinges on what needs fixing. Simple repairs like a capacitor, contactor, drain or motor can extend the system’s life at minimal cost. If the total repair cost is under $1,000 and the technician deems the system sound, that’s a low-risk investment.

✓ For larger repairs of $1,000 to $2,000, a fix that extends the system’s life by a year or two carries low risk. If the overall system condition is poor, it could be wasted money.

✓ For major repairs above $2,000, such as an evaporator coil, compressor or condenser coil replacement, or a large indoor blower or circuit board, the risk increases on systems more than 10 years old. Replacing major components can lead to other part failures soon after, which makes the expense hard to justify. This is the point to consider AC installation, even if financing is needed. Paying interest is preferable to spending thousands on a failing system. New systems bring lower operating costs and longer warranties.

AC Installation Options: Good, Better, Best

If AC installation is a better option for you than repair, then you’re at your next decision point: What kind of system should you get? Choosing the right air conditioner involves balancing efficiency, noise levels, humidity control, features, warranties, and, of course, cost. AC units can generally be categorized into three tiers: Good, Better and Best, each offering distinct advantages and catering to different needs and budgets.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each level:

Good ($)

• Still efficient, all with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of at least 14 and many around 16
• More noise from both the inside unit and the outside unit
• Less humidity control; humidity reduction is primarily just a byproduct of cooling and condensation
• Limited features and warranties, although many lower end units still have 10-year parts warranties

Better ($$)

• Excellent brand midsized system with a few features
• Generally, mid-range systems are two-stage. This means they can operate at partial capacity, typically 60%, or full capacity (100%) based on changing needs. For example, during milder months and in the evenings when it’s cooler, they can reduce capacity and use less power. In Austin, we find these systems run in low stage more than 90% of the time, extending the cooling time and reducing humidity in the process. They are slightly quieter when operating in this manner.
• When coupled with a thermostat that favors low-stage operation (Ecobee, for example), these systems do try to dehumidify, and they achieve lower electric bills.

Best ($$$)

• Exceptional at managing humidity; some allow you to set desired humidity level and will generally manage to that level.
• Scale down continuously or across many increments. They will run from as low as 20% of capacity to 100% and will vary capacity to best match needs.
• Have the highest SEER ratings (some in the mid 20s) and deliver the lowest electric bills.
• Come with the longest manufacturer warranties; at Efficient, we match the manufacturers’ 10-year parts warranty with a 10-year labor warranty as part of our AC installation package.
• Ultra quiet inside and out. Their outdoor units (condensers) are virtually silent. This may be a priority if you entertain or spend a lot of time near the outdoor unit.
• Long life. Our experience with these, the Carrier Infinity systems in particular, is very long life. Many reach 15 to 20 years when maintained reasonably well.
• The only drawback, other than the larger investment, is that these systems are considered “communicating.” This means they require the use of the manufacturer’s thermostat, as this is where the humidity control and quiet operation logic reside. They cannot be coupled with standard thermostats, such as the Nest or Ecobee.

We recommend you pick a system that not only suits your needs, wants and budget but maintains or exceeds the quality level of your current system. It is unsatisfying to pay for a brand new air conditioner, only to find that it is a level or two below the old one, resulting in noisier and/or less efficient performance.

What Sets Efficient Apart From Other AC Installation Contractors?

Our People

The AC installation crew we send to your home will always be made up of full-time Efficient employees; we do not use subcontractors. We highly recommend asking any company you’re considering whether they’ll be using subcontractors to complete your project, as this practice can lead to a disconnect between the quality of work that is promised and the quality of work that is performed.

Our crews are trained to provide clean, quality AC installations and are required to pass background and drug screening. They are held to high standards and consistently meet them.

Our Values

If you don’t need AC installation, we won’t try to convince you that you do. We always consider age, condition and current operation in our recommendations, as well as your needs and future plans for your property. If you would be better served by an AC or ductwork repair, we won’t try to sell you a new air conditioner. Learn more about who we are.

Our Ratings

We’re a top-rated Austin AC installation contractor. Don’t take our word for it, though. Read real reviews from hundreds of actual home and business owners who have used our air conditioning, electrical and plumbing services. Our resume includes being an eight-time winner of the Angi (Formerly Angie’s List) Super Service Award, a two-time recipient of the President’s Award for excellence from Carrier air conditioning, and a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite.

Our 100% Local Ownership

In recent years, many service companies that started in Austin have been purchased by statewide or national service companies or private equity investors. Not us. We have remained locally and family owned since we were founded in 1976. The owners, Molly and George Drazic, are University of Texas at Austin alumni and raised their family here. They are actively engaged in the community and the day-to-day operations of the company. Read George’s blog post, "Local Ownership in a Market of Acquisition."