Get matched with top heating and air conditioning pros in Tecumseh, OK

The best time of year to purchase or replace an HVAC system, including components like an air conditioner or furnace, is during the off-season—spring and fall. During these periods, HVAC professionals are less busy than in summer and winter, when extreme temperatures create urgent demand. Shopping during the off-season can lead to savings of 10% to 15% on an AC unit and allows you more time to find the best deal and other cost-saving incentives. Typically, air conditioning units go on sale in the fall after demand drops, while furnace prices tend to decrease in the spring.

The cost to add Freon to an AC ranges from $100 to $350. It can increase up to $600 for large AC units requiring much more coolant. The cost also depends on how much refrigerant your unit needs. If only a small amount of Freon leaked out, your cost would be on the lower side. A complete replacement of all the required refrigerant can get expensive.

While your AC unit may still run even if its capacitor is going bad, doing so takes a lot more energy, so it can drive up your electric bill and cause further damage to your AC unit’s parts. If you suspect a bad capacitor, it’s important to have a professional diagnose and fix the problem before you continue to run your AC.

To keep your air conditioner in good working condition, you should have it serviced by a professional at least once per year, ideally in the spring before the cooling season begins. If your AC unit is 10 years or older, consider servicing it twice a year (once in the spring and once in the fall) to catch potential problems early and help it reach its full lifespan. During a service visit, a technician will inspect, clean, and replace parts as needed. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly repairs. As a DIY task, you can also clean the evaporator coils annually.