Cool things take time
Replacing a home AC unit in your single-family home takes four to eight hours on average, depending on unit size and location.
Your replacement timeline depends on several factors, including the number of units, system type, and whether you need a simple changeout or full replacement.
Full system replacements with new ductwork take two to three days, while simple changeouts finish in less than one day for your home.
Hiring a local air conditioner installing professional keeps your replacement on schedule, managing everything from rooftop access to electrical work and proper installation.
Air conditioners aren't meant to last forever. Whether they're humble window units or large and complicated central air systems, there comes a time when replacement is inevitable. But when it's a summer scorcher and you need to call a local HVAC company to overhaul everything, how long does it take to replace an AC unit? For most homeowners, it’ll take four to eight hours before you’re back in cooled bliss, but the time can vary. Here are the factors that go into your AC replacement timeline.
The size of the air conditioner is one of the biggest factors in how long it will take to replace. A compact unit will come in and out much faster than a huge, bulky unit that requires more technicians to transport and work on.
If your home is large enough to need multiple units, AC replacement will take substantially longer than if you only need one unit. The average AC replacement takes four to eight hours, so replacing two units may take at least eight and up to sixteen hours to replace over the course of a couple of days.
There are several kinds of air conditioners and HVAC systems. The best one for your home depends on your home’s size and layout, your home's age, upfront costs, ongoing maintenance costs, and your household's overall HVAC needs based on the local climate and medical needs of household members.
| AC Type | Average Installation Time |
|---|---|
| Window | One hour |
| Split (central air) | Four to eight hours |
| Mini-split | Four to six hours |
| Packaged | Four to six hours |
You or a pro can finish window AC replacement in as little as one hour since window units don't require structural changes. All you need to do is bracket the unit into the window frame and caulk it. This job may not even require a pro, but if you have any hesitation or trouble lifting things around 50 pounds, a pro will be happy to get it done lickety-split.
Split air conditioners are a type of central air system. Replacing a split air conditioner can take four to eight hours. Sometimes, the pros will need an entire day, depending on the size of your home and how remote the installation site is.
Mini-splits have elements of both central air systems and window units. A window unit is restricted to just one room, but mini splits can heat and cool the entire home or a specific zone. Replacing a mini-split system takes one to three hours on average. Installation needs four to six hours if you have multiple zones that require more indoor AC units.
Packaged air conditioning systems are central air systems that keep the condenser and coil together on the roof. Because of their small size, they're a good fit for small homes that may not have room for a split air conditioner.
Replacing a packaged air conditioner takes at least four to six hours. While they are smaller than split air conditioners, accessing the roof requires additional diligence and time. Getting the unit onto your roof safely also requires significantly more time than transporting AC units at ground level.
Installing a system in a simple location, like your backyard, is going to take significantly less time than getting on and off your roof to replace a packaged air conditioner system. Even when replacing window units, having to lug one up the stairs is going to add more time to the replacement job compared to installing a unit on the ground floor. Plus, pros need to pay extra attention when a window unit faces outside and could fall one or more stories.
The harder it is for a pro to reach the replacement site, the longer the AC replacement will take.
Are you replacing a broken unit or opting for a full system replacement?
A changeout, where you replace your broken air conditioner with a new one, keeps all of the other equipment and ductwork intact. But if you opt for a full system replacement because of old, leaky ducts or if you opt for a ductless system, it can take two to three days or longer, depending on the size and layout of your home.
In most cases, a changeout is finished in less than one day. A full system replacement can mean suffering from sweltering temperatures for a few more days. Plan accordingly if your local HVAC company recommends replacing the entire system.
Great company! Price was competitive, technician showed up on time and completed the job (exterior electric Radon fan replacement) quickly. Would hire them again.
MaGen Property Inspections and Radon MitigationAs usual with ECO, tech Jordan was outstanding, very professional, very knowledgeable, and very thorough with repairs made to tankless water heaters. Very highly recommend ECO!!!
Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC TechniciansRaven and crew does absolutely fantastic job. They are very professional if any concerns were to occur with any of her work she always took responsibility and finished out with a great job. I have worked with her business for a year and have always been satisfied. Very trusted business and...
Creations of Transformation LLCI would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLCAce Fireplace Services' chimney sweep service is truly exceptional. They used advanced technology to ensure a thorough cleaning process, and my chimney has never looked better. I highly recommend their services.
Ace Fireplace ServicesThe technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimneyExcellent experience with hiring Tether House to Mount our 77’ Samsung TV in our bedroom. Fast, friendly, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
Tether HouseOn time, clean and finished fast. Windows seem sturdy and the finish is good. Caulking was done with no smudges. Would recommend.
Window Depot USA of Central OhioGreat job...edging and pre clean up went well with a great job with seal coat. Friendly, efficient and professional.
All Star Paving and SealingGood workers and they do a good job.
Mira ConstructionFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The cost of a new AC unit depends on the size and type. Our guide breaks down AC replacement cost factors so you can decide which option matches your budget.
If you’re having problems with your air conditioner’s condenser, it may be time for an upgrade. Learn about the cost to replace an AC condenser in this guide.
A worn AC fan motor can cause your system to overheat. Budget for AC unit fan motor costs, including parts and labor, with this guide.
Wondering how long AC units last? Check out this helpful guide with common signs it’s time to replace your AC unit.
Can you replace just the outside AC unit? That’s a problem most homeowners face when dealing with HVAC issues. Our guide provides answers.
You don't always need a pro to step in, but a frozen AC unit will not fix itself. This guide teaches you how to troubleshoot an AC freeze so you can figure out whether to fix it yourself or hire a pro.
