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Branford Air Conditioning Installation & Replacement

AC Installation Professionals Serving New Haven County, Middlesex County, New London County & Surrounding Areas

Getting a new air conditioning system is a significant investment, and you deserve a unit that provides reliable, energy-efficient comfort for years to come. Whether your old AC unit just gave out or you're planning ahead for an upgrade, you're likely facing a lot of questions about the best system, the installation process, and the total cost. At Air Inc. Heating & Air Conditioning, we understand this can be overwhelming or even stressful. Our experts are here to make choosing and installing your new AC system as straightforward and worry-free as possible.

Our licensed and insured AC technicians can help you find the ideal AC system for your specific needs. We can verify that your new air conditioner is the right size to cool your space efficiently,  which can help save you money on future energy bills. With over 30 years of experience and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, we’ve built a reputation on integrity and service excellence. Our team follows industry best practices when installing new units and can confirm your equipment delivers peak performance from day one. 

Call (203) 871-0801 or contact us online to start exploring your options with our Branford air conditioning installation and replacement experts. Ask about our financing options, satisfaction guarantee, and warranties.

What Should I Consider When Choosing a New Air Conditioning System?

You need AC equipment that can capably cool your property. We can evaluate your personal comfort preferences, along with your property's unique requirements, so that we can make tailored recommendations. Our technicians at Air Inc. Heating & Air Conditioning can review the pros and cons of each system we recommend so that you can make an informed decision.

We can help you assess all of the most important factors when selecting new AC equipment, including:

  • System sizing (cooling load). The single most important factor is making sure your new AC unit is the correct size. An undersized unit will run constantly and fail to cool your home adequately. An oversized unit will constantly cycle on and off, wasting energy, failing to dehumidify the air properly, and shortening the lifespan of the equipment. We can perform a detailed load calculation to determine how much cooling capacity (measured in British Thermal Units, or BTUs) your home actually requires. 
  • Type of system. We can advise which type of system best fits your property. Options include traditional central air conditioners, heat pumps (which offer both heating and cooling), and ductless mini-split systems (ideal for additions, detached spaces, or homes without existing ductwork).
  • Energy efficiency rating (SEER2). We can help you understand modern seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER2) ratings, which indicate how efficiently the unit converts energy into cooling. Put simply, higher SEER2 ratings mean lower monthly energy bills. We can discuss the cost-benefit analysis of choosing a high-efficiency unit versus one with a lower upfront cost.
  • Features and technology. We can explore features that enhance comfort and convenience, such as smart thermostat compatibility and air filtration technology. We can work with you to determine what features you value most so that we can tailor our recommendations accordingly.
  • Budget and warranty: Our team can help you select a system that aligns with your budget while discussing long-term operational costs. We can review the manufacturer's warranty and the details of our labor warranty so that you know exactly what protection you receive with your new investment.
  • "Well worth it. Will call again next year!"
    Susan T.
  • Customer-First Service
    We believe in honest communication, fair pricing, and lasting relationships. Every service call is backed by our commitment to your comfort, convenience, and peace of mind.
  • Expert Technicians You Can Count On
    Our skilled and certified technicians bring years of hands-on experience to every repair, installation, and maintenance job, ensuring your system runs efficiently and reliably year-round.
  • 24/7 Emergency Response
    Day or night, our dedicated team is ready to respond to any HVAC emergency. We’re always available to protect your comfort and prevent costly damage when unexpected issues arise.
  • Proven Trust and Reliability
    With over three decades of experience and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau since 2000, we’ve earned a spotless record of customer satisfaction — zero complaints and countless positive reviews that speak for themselves.

How Long Does AC Installation Typically Take?

The timeline for a typical AC installation can vary, but generally, a standard replacement of a central air conditioner takes one to two days. Simple installations that only involve swapping out the outdoor condenser unit and the indoor air handler or evaporator coil can often be completed within a single day. However, a completely new installation or a complex replacement project often requires more time. We work efficiently but prioritize service quality over rushing to finish fast, making certain we correctly size the unit, seal all connections, and test the entire system thoroughly.

Several factors can extend the timeline for your AC installation. If we need to install new ductwork or modify existing ducts, the project will inevitably take longer. Challenges like accessing the outdoor condenser unit in a difficult location, necessary electrical upgrades to accommodate a larger or higher-efficiency unit, or unexpected building permit inspections can all push the installation timeline into the second or third day. We can clearly communicate with you about the expected timeline once we complete our assessment of your specific job.



How Long Do Modern AC Systems Usually Last?

Many modern central air conditioning systems generally last between 15 and 20 years. However, this estimated lifespan is not guaranteed and only represents the average expected service life for a properly functioning unit. The range depends significantly on factors like the system's quality and the frequency of use. For example, an AC unit running almost constantly in a very hot, humid environment may experience more wear and tear than a similar unit in a milder climate. The quality of the original installation also plays a major role. A correctly sized and professionally installed unit will typically last longer than one installed incorrectly.

You can significantly extend the life of your AC system through proactive care. Promptly addressing any needed repairs as soon as they arise helps prevent minor problems from causing catastrophic damage to major components. Scheduling routine maintenance and tune-ups also helps the system operate at peak efficiency. Regular check-ups allow our technicians to clean coils, lubricate moving parts, and catch small issues before they become expensive issues, helping your unit reliably serve your home for as long as possible.


  • Yes it is. Mitsubishi, Daikin, Carrier and all other manufactures are phasing out the manufacturing of Ductless Air Conditioning ONLY stems. They are being replaced by high efficiency Ductless Heat Pumps, which provide both air conditioning and heating.

    It doesn't make economic sense for the manufactures to rearrange an assembly line to make cooling only units, when there is very little cost difference from the manufacturing process of a heat pump.

    Find out more about Ductless Heat Pumps here

  • If you know a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker who’s been having heating or cooling issues, send them our way, and we’ll take great care of them. Refer someone who may need to repair or replace their furnace, boiler, air conditioner, heat pump, water heater, or any other HVAC service.
    Your Reward: When your referral purchases a system from Air, Inc., you’ll receive $250. Some of our customers have earned $500–$1,000 just for sending people they know. There is no limit to the number of rewards you can earn.

  • Ductless mini-split systems are a premium home comfort solution, not a quick window-unit install. A professionally installed single-zone system typically starts around $6,500–$8,500, depending on the home and installation needs. Multi-zone systems serving several rooms can vary more. Each system requires a licensed, experienced crew to ensure efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. We provide professional in-home evaluations so you know exactly what’s right for your home and budget.

  • With a multi-zone ductless heat pump, you can connect multiple indoor air handlers—often up to eight—to heat and cool different rooms independently.

  • A ductless heat pump works by moving heat, not creating it. In the summer, it pulls heat out of your home to keep you cool. In the winter, it extracts heat from the outdoor air—even when it’s cold—and brings it inside. Each indoor unit controls the temperature of its own room, providing efficient, quiet comfort without ductwork.

Get your comfort back! Contact Us Today

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential for maintaining a comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient home. A properly functioning HVAC system not only keeps indoor temperatures steady year-round—it also improves air quality by filtering out dust, allergens, and pollutants. Regular maintenance ensures your system runs efficiently, lowering energy bills and extending its lifespan. Whether it’s keeping your family cool in the summer or warm in the winter, your HVAC system plays a vital role in creating a safe and comfortable living environment.

Areas We Serve

When Do I Need to Replace My Air Conditioning Equipment?

You may need to replace your equipment well before the end of its expected service life in certain situations. If your AC is experiencing recurring problems or keeps breaking down, we can provide an honest assessment of your equipment’s condition and give you transparent advice on when simple repairs can restore your system versus when replacement offers a smarter long-term investment. Our technicians can help you look past the immediate cost of a repair to see the total cost of keeping an aging or inefficient unit. We are also available 24/7 if you need to get started on an emergency replacement.

We may recommend replacing your AC system in any of the following situations:

  • Frequent or costly breakdowns. Repeatedly paying for parts and labor on a failing unit can quickly become a drain on your finances and your patience. It is a smart idea to replace your system if the collective cost of frequent repairs or the cost of a single repair is more than 50% of a new unit's price. 
  • Your unit uses R-22 refrigerant. Older AC units use R-22 refrigerant, which the government has phased out due to its environmental impact. If your R-22 unit develops a leak, the cost of the remaining available refrigerant is extremely high, making system replacement a more practical choice than paying to recharge the unit.
  • Inconsistent cooling and comfort issues. If your AC struggles to maintain a comfortable temperature, leaves hot and cold spots throughout your home, or fails to properly dehumidify the air, your unit may be incorrectly sized or simply losing its cooling capacity due to age. We can evaluate your entire system to determine whether repairs can restore consistent comfort or if your equipment is past its prime. 
  • Excessive noise. While all AC units make some noise, loud grinding, rattling, or banging sounds often indicate serious internal component failures, like a bad compressor or a damaged fan motor. These repairs are frequently costly and suggest the entire unit is nearing the end of its life.

Still not sure if you need a new air conditioning system? Call (203) 871-0801 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.