Got questions about your AC or heating system? You’re not alone—and we’ve got answers. At Impact AC & Heating, our FAQs cover everything from AC repair and installation to routine maintenance and thermostat issues. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden breakdown or planning a system upgrade, this page will help you understand what to expect, how to save money, and when to call the pros. Let’s clear things up!
Many Phoenix homeowners trust Impact AC & Heating as the best local HVAC company. They provide fast, same-day service with licensed technicians. The team handles AC repair, installation, and heating services across the Valley. Customers praise their honest pricing, reliable support, and friendly service. They also work on all major HVAC brands and offer flexible scheduling. With years of experience and great reviews, Impact AC & Heating stands out as a top-rated choice you can count on.
Four of the most reliable HVAC brands on the market today. Moreover, each brand offers energy-efficient systems, strong warranties, and consistent performance in tough climates. Consequently, homeowners and HVAC pros trust them for long-term reliability and quality parts. Although each has different strengths, all four brands rank high in durability and support. Therefore, if you want an HVAC system that lasts, choosing one of these trusted names is a smart move.
How long should an AC last in Phoenix? Anywhere from 12 to 15 years would be normal, Callaway said. To prolong the life of your AC unit to the maximum, Callaway recommends having your AC serviced every six months, once in the spring and once in the fall.
What is the Average Cost of AC Replacement in Phoenix? In Phoenix, the average cost to replace a central air conditioner, including installation, typically falls between $11,000 and $26,000, but can vary based on factors like unit size, efficiency, and contractor choices.
The Lifestory Research 2025 America’s Most Trusted® HVAC System Study surveyed 8,856 consumers nationwide to determine which brand they trust the most regarding HVAC systems. **As a result,** Trane emerged as the brand consumers consistently rated as the most trustworthy.
Replace your HVAC system if it’s over 10–15 years old, needs frequent repairs, causes high energy bills, or no longer keeps your home comfortable. Signs like uneven temperatures, humidity issues, or excess dust also suggest it’s time for an upgrade.
While the lifespan of a heat pump varies, most units last between 10 to 15 years.
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.
Some should be replaced every 30 to 60 days. Others might last 6 months to a year. The answer depends on factors such as how often you use the system, the type of filter, whether there are any pets in the home, and your personal habits such as having smokers in the house, use of a wood-burning fireplace, and more.
A heat pump can heat and cool, but an air conditioner cannot, which is the primary difference between the two HVAC systems. An air conditioner is typically paired with a furnace to provide heat during the cold months.
Compressors are typically the most expensive parts to replace on an AC unit. **However**, why do they cost so much? **In fact**, the compressor plays one of the most vital roles in the AC unit’s overall functioning. **Consequently**, when it doesn’t work, you have nothing but an air conditioner blowing hot air **until** it eventually falls apart in other ways.
For residential purposes, a split air conditioner is generally considered better than a window unit due to its superior cooling efficiency, quieter operation, and potentially lower long-term energy costs. While split ACs have a higher upfront cost and require professional installation, their advantages often outweigh these initial drawbacks, especially for those prioritizing comfort and quiet operation.
There are four main types of HVAC systems. There are split systems, hybrid systems, duct-free systems, and packaged heating and air systems.
Square Footage | BTUs per hour | AC Unit Tonnage |
---|---|---|
700 to 1,000 | 18,000 | 1.5 Tons |
1,000 to 1,200 | 21,000 | 2 Tons |
1,200 to 1,400 | 23,000 | 2 Tons |
1,400 to 1,500 | 24,000 | 2 Tons |
You might notice your system blowing warm air, strange noises like grinding or rattling from the outdoor unit, or the unit failing to start altogether. Other signs include high indoor humidity, frequent circuit breaker trips, or a noticeable drop in cooling performance. In some cases, a faulty compressor may also cause refrigerant leaks or low pressure. If you spot any of these issues, it’s best to have a professional HVAC technician inspect the system before the problem worsens.
Ice buildup — If you notice ice or frost building up on the evaporator coil or refrigerant lines, it can be a sign the fluid level is low enough to allow component freezing. Increased cooling time — If your air conditioner takes longer and longer to cool your car, it could be a sign of low refrigerant.
The HVAC compressor cannot run without Freon or some other refrigerant. The compressor can run with a low refrigerant level and possess some cooling power. However, running the air conditioner with less than the proper amount of refrigerant is not recommended.
A freon (refrigerant) leak in an air conditioning system can be detected through various signs, including unusual noises, reduced cooling performance, and ice buildup on the unit. A hissing or bubbling sound from the AC unit can indicate a leak, as can a noticeable increase in your electricity bill. Additionally, ice formation on the evaporator coils or refrigerant lines, or a musty smell, can also signal a leak.
On average, the price to install a new central AC unit can range from $11,000 to $26,000. The range varies greatly because there are lots of factors that affect the price. Those factors can be grouped under 3 main components: The contractor you choose.
Even without noticeable defects, we recommend getting an air conditioner checked at least once a year to ensure it’s performing at its best. Here are the signs to be on the lookout for that may indicate an air conditioner needs immediate maintenance. If your unit makes more noise than usual, the filters may be clogged.