Professional HVAC Installation Services in Ann Arbor & Washtenaw County
Installing a new HVAC system is a significant investment in your home's comfort, energy efficiency, and value. Whether you're building a new home, replacing an aging system, or upgrading to a more efficient model, Ann Arbor HVAC Pros connects you with experienced, licensed HVAC installation contractors throughout Washtenaw County.
Our network of trusted installation professionals specializes in residential and commercial HVAC installations, including central air conditioning systems, furnaces, heat pumps, ductless mini-split systems, hybrid dual-fuel systems, and complete heating and cooling packages.
What Does HVAC Installation Include?
Professional HVAC installation is far more complex than simply placing equipment. A proper installation involves:
- Load Calculations: Precisely determining the correct system size for your home using Manual J calculations
- Equipment Selection: Recommending the best system type, brand, and efficiency level for your needs and budget
- Ductwork Assessment: Evaluating existing ductwork or designing new ductwork for optimal airflow
- Electrical Work: Installing proper electrical connections, circuits, and disconnect boxes to code
- Refrigerant Lines: Running and properly charging refrigerant lines for cooling systems
- Thermostat Installation: Installing and programming modern programmable or smart thermostats
- Ventilation Setup: Ensuring proper combustion air supply and exhaust venting for safety
- System Commissioning: Testing all components, calibrating controls, and verifying peak performance
- Code Compliance: Meeting all local building codes and obtaining necessary permits and inspections
- Warranty Registration: Registering equipment warranties and providing documentation
Signs You Need a New HVAC System
If you're experiencing any of these issues, it may be time for a new HVAC installation rather than continued repairs:
- System Age: Your furnace or AC is 15-20+ years old (typical lifespan is 15-20 years)
- Frequent Repairs: Repair costs in the past two years exceed 50% of replacement cost
- Rising Energy Bills: Heating and cooling costs have increased significantly despite similar usage
- Inconsistent Temperatures: Some rooms are too hot or cold no matter what you do
- Poor Air Quality: Excessive dust, humidity problems, or persistent indoor air quality issues
- Loud Operation: System makes excessive noise during normal operation
- R-22 Refrigerant: Your AC uses discontinued R-22 refrigerant, making repairs expensive
- Home Addition: You've added square footage and your system struggles to keep up
- Major Component Failure: Compressor, heat exchanger, or other expensive component has failed
💡 Energy Efficiency Matters
Modern HVAC systems are dramatically more efficient than systems from even 10 years ago. A new high-efficiency system can reduce your heating and cooling costs by 20-40%. Look for ENERGY STAR certified systems with high SEER ratings (18+) for cooling and high AFUE ratings (95%+) for heating to maximize energy savings.
Average HVAC Installation Costs in Ann Arbor
HVAC installation costs in Ann Arbor vary based on system type, size, efficiency rating, and installation complexity. Here's what you can expect:
Typical HVAC Installation Pricing
- Central AC Installation (replacement): $3,500 - $7,500 (2-5 ton systems)
- Furnace Installation (replacement): $3,000 - $6,500 (gas or propane, standard efficiency)
- High-Efficiency Furnace: $4,500 - $8,000 (95%+ AFUE condensing models)
- Complete HVAC System (furnace + AC): $6,000 - $12,000 (depending on efficiency and size)
- Heat Pump System: $5,000 - $10,000 (all-in-one heating and cooling)
- Ductless Mini-Split System: $2,500 - $7,500 (1-4 zones)
- Ductwork Installation: $3,000 - $8,000 (new construction or complete replacement)
- Thermostat Upgrade: $200 - $500 (smart thermostat installation)
- New Construction HVAC: $8,000 - $15,000 (complete system with all ductwork)
Financing Options: Many contractors offer financing plans with $0 down and low monthly payments. Ask about available rebates from utility companies and federal tax credits for high-efficiency systems.
Choosing the Right HVAC System
Not all HVAC systems are created equal. Your contractor should help you choose based on:
- Home Size: Proper load calculations ensure you don't over-size or under-size equipment
- Climate: Michigan requires systems that perform well in both extreme heat and cold
- Energy Efficiency Goals: Higher efficiency costs more upfront but saves money long-term
- Existing Infrastructure: Ductwork condition and electrical capacity affect options
- Budget: Balance upfront costs with operating costs over the system's lifespan
- Comfort Preferences: Variable-speed systems offer superior comfort and efficiency
- Indoor Air Quality: Consider systems with advanced filtration and humidity control
Why Proper Installation Matters
Even the highest-quality HVAC equipment will underperform if improperly installed. Poor installation can result in:
- 30-40% reduction in system efficiency
- Shortened equipment lifespan (up to 50% shorter)
- Comfort problems and uneven temperatures
- Increased energy bills and operating costs
- Voided manufacturer warranties
- Safety hazards like carbon monoxide leaks
Questions to Ask HVAC Installation Contractors
When comparing quotes from Ann Arbor HVAC contractors, ask:
- Are you licensed and insured in Michigan?
- Will you perform Manual J load calculations?
- What brands do you recommend and why?
- What's included in your installation warranty?
- Will you handle permits and inspections?
- How long will the installation take?
- Do you offer financing options?
- What maintenance is recommended after installation?
- Are there any available rebates or tax credits?
HVAC Installation Timeline
A typical HVAC installation in Ann Arbor takes 1-3 days depending on complexity. Simple equipment replacements can be completed in one day, while new construction installations with ductwork may take several days. Your contractor should provide a detailed timeline during the quote process.