AC installation projects we handle
What matters in your home?
You don’t need all the answers before you call.
Replacing a system that’s worn out
A new system where an old one used to be. Still comparing options and quotes? Start with AC replacement. This page covers the installation itself.
Adding a system to a two-story home
One system often struggles to keep a two-story home even, with the upstairs running warm all summer. A second system for the upper floor is one way to fix it. Ductwork and zoning are others, and we’ll talk through both.
Cooling an addition, casita or converted garage
New living space needs its own plan, because the existing system may not have the capacity to cover it. We’ll look at what the space needs and the options for cooling it.
A home without central air
Some older homes never had central air, or had it removed. Adding it means planning ductwork, equipment locations and electrical capacity from the start.
A rooftop package unit swap
Some homes keep all their cooling equipment in one cabinet on the roof. Replacing it takes roof access and, sometimes, a crane lift.
What happens on AC installation day
Installation day.
Installation day is mostly careful, unglamorous work.
The crew starts by protecting your floors and the path to the equipment. If there’s an old system, its refrigerant is recovered with proper equipment before anything is disconnected. EPA rules require that before central AC equipment is disposed of. Then the old equipment comes out.
Next, the new outdoor unit is set on its pad (or on the roof for a package unit), and the indoor unit or coil goes in. The line set, the copper tubing that carries refrigerant between them, is either reused or replaced, depending on its condition and the new equipment.
Then comes the wiring: the electrical disconnect near the outdoor unit and the connections to your panel and thermostat. The condensate drain line and its safety switch get hooked up so water leaves the system properly.
Before the system ever runs, the refrigerant lines are put under a deep vacuum to pull out air and moisture. Then the refrigerant charge is confirmed, the system starts up, and airflow and temperatures are checked. Last, the thermostat is set up and tested.
After your new AC is installed
After installation.
Before we leave, we walk you through the new system: how the thermostat works, where the filter goes and what size it takes, and what’s normal in the first few days.
You should also get the paperwork: model and serial numbers, warranty details, who registers the equipment with the manufacturer, and permit close-out if one was pulled. Keep it together for future service.
After installation, Keenan follows up by call or text to check how everything is running.
A new system still needs regular care, and the Keenan Comfort Club keeps it on schedule.
Split system vs. package unit
Know your setup.
Split system
- Where the parts liveAn outdoor condenser plus an indoor air handler or furnace coil.
- Where you see itHomes with an attic, closet or garage indoor unit.
- InstallationNeeds attic, closet or garage access for the indoor unit.
- Replacing itOutdoor and indoor units are usually replaced as a matched pair.
- HeatPaired with a gas furnace, or a heat pump handles both.
Package unit
- Where the parts liveEverything in one cabinet on the roof or the ground.
- Where you see itSome homes, often with flat roofs or no indoor equipment space.
- InstallationNeeds roof access and a curb, sometimes a crane.
- Replacing itThe whole cabinet is replaced at once.
- HeatA gas pack, or a heat pump package unit.
Thinking about heat pump installation instead? See heat pump installation.
How AC installation with Keenan works
Start with a conversation.
Tell us about the project
Share your address, your current equipment if you have any, and what you want the new system to do. A photo of the outdoor unit’s label helps.
Review your options and written quote
Your quote covers the equipment, the installation scope, the price and the warranty, all in writing. Nothing is scheduled until you’ve approved it.
Installation, start-up and walkthrough
We install the system, start it up and check that it’s running properly. Then we walk you through it and follow up by call or text.
New system in mind? Let’s plan.
Getting your home ready for install day
A little prep helps.
Clear a path to the attic hatch, closet or garage where the indoor unit sits, and to the outdoor unit. Keep pets secured away from the work area. Let us know about gate codes or HOA rules ahead of time.
Plan for the cooling to be off for part of the day while the work is done.
What affects AC installation cost
No surprises.
Every installation is priced on the project. These are the factors that move the number.
- Type of projectReplacing an existing system or adding a new one.
- Equipment size and efficiencyTons of cooling and the SEER2 rating.
- DuctworkWhether new ducts or returns are needed.
- ElectricalWhether the panel has the capacity, or a new circuit is needed.
- The line setReused or replaced.
- Location and accessAttic, closet, garage or roof, and whether a crane is needed.
- Permit and thermostat
You see the full price before installation is scheduled.
The person behind the name
Your neighbor.
Your comfort.
Daniel grew up in the East Valley and still calls it home. Keenan is locally owned, family owned, and independent. Not owned by private equity.
Explore more
Care for your whole home.
AC installation questions
A little clarity.
How long does AC installation take?
It depends on the project. Replacing a system in the same location is usually the quicker job. A new system that needs ductwork or electrical work takes longer. Your quote will include the expected schedule.
Do I need a permit for a new AC?
Permit requirements are set by each city or town, including the City of Mesa, the City of Chandler and the Town of Gilbert. Your quote should state whether a permit is included.
Do I need to be home during installation?
Someone should be there at the start to give access, and at the end for the walkthrough. That’s when you’ll learn how the new system and thermostat work.
What happens to my old AC?
Its refrigerant is recovered with proper equipment before the system is disconnected, as EPA rules require for central air conditioning before disposal. Then the old equipment is removed from your home.
What should I know before approving the work?
Make sure the quote names the indoor and outdoor equipment, lists what the installation includes, and gives one total price with written warranty terms. Our AC replacement page has a full checklist of what a good quote includes.
What happens after installation?
Keenan checks the system, walks you through how it works and follows up by call or text. Ask the team about anything specific to your project.
Around the East Valley