Phil did a great job of carefully examining all the components of our almost 20 year old HVAC system. He took detailed photos and videos to show me the status. And he didn’t try to sell me anything else! Great experience 10/10System inspection
AC Replacement in Portland, OR
If your AC is past its prime, running loud, tripping breakers, or just not keeping up, it might be time for a new one. We install high-efficiency systems built for Oregon summers and handle everything from permits to cleanup.

Should You Repair or Replace Your AC?
Deciding between AC repair and replacement is crucial for Portland homeowners. A suspected compressor failure often forces the decision, so first confirm whether the compressor has actually failed. Use this guide to make the best choice:
Formula: (Repair Cost x System Age) vs. (New System Cost / 15 years)
Example: If repair costs $1,500 and your system is 12 years old: $1,500 x 12 = $18,000. A new $7,500 system divided by a 15-year lifespan = $500/year. In this case, replacement makes financial sense.
How We Handle AC Replacement: Step by Step
Free In-Home Assessment & Load Calculation
Our certified technicians visit your Portland home to assess your cooling needs. We measure square footage, evaluate insulation, check sun exposure, analyze ductwork, and perform Manual J load calculations to determine the precise system size and type for optimal efficiency in Oregon's extreme climate.
Equipment Selection & Transparent Pricing
We help you select the perfect AC system based on your budget, home size, and efficiency goals. We offer premium brands including Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Goodman, Rheem, York, and American Standard, all proven performers in Portland heat. You'll receive a detailed written estimate with equipment specs, installation details, and warranty information before any work begins.
Installation & Testing
Our expert installation team removes your old system and installs your new AC with precision. We handle all electrical connections, refrigerant lines, condensate drainage, thermostat integration, and ductwork modifications. Every installation includes full system testing, airflow optimization, refrigerant charge verification, and complete cleanup. We make sure your system runs right before we leave.
System Orientation & Ongoing Support
We provide complete training on your new system's operation, programmable thermostat settings, and maintenance requirements. You'll receive warranty documentation, maintenance schedules, and 24/7 access to our Portland support team. We also offer annual maintenance plans to keep your system running efficiently for years to come.
AC Systems We Install in Portland
Central Air Conditioning
Whole-home cooling with ducted systems. The most popular choice for Portland homes with existing ductwork. Efficient and reliable.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Ultra-efficient cooling without ductwork. Perfect for Portland additions, older homes, and zone control. Up to 25 SEER efficiency.
Heat Pump Systems
Year-round comfort with heating and cooling. Ideal for Portland's mild winters and scorching summers. Maximum energy savings.
Recent AC Replacement Projects in Portland
Recent installs across the Portland metro area. Every project is done right, with clean work, proper testing, and no shortcuts.
AC Brands We Service
NATE-Certified, Factory-Trained Installers
We install premium high-efficiency AC systems for new installations. Our expert technicians are also certified to repair, maintain, and replace all major AC brands including Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Rheem, Goodman, York, and American Standard.
Factory-Trained Installers: We specialize in premium high-efficiency systems with manufacturer warranties and factory-direct support
Air Conditioning Replacement Pricing in Portland
Basic Central AC System
2-3 Ton (Up to 1,500 sq ft)
From $6,995
- 14-16 SEER efficiency
- Standard thermostat
- 10-year parts warranty
- Complete installation
Mid-Tier AC System
3-4 Ton (1,500-2,500 sq ft)
Quoted after a load calculation
- 16-18 SEER high efficiency
- Programmable thermostat
- Enhanced warranty coverage
- Professional installation & cleanup
Premium AC System
4-5 Ton (2,500+ sq ft)
Up to about $12,500
- 18-20+ SEER maximum efficiency
- Smart WiFi thermostat
- Extended 12-year warranty
- Variable speed technology
- Priority maintenance plan
Portland Average: Central AC systems start at $6,995 installed in the Portland metro, and premium variable-speed systems top out around $12,500. See our full AC replacement cost breakdown for pricing by home size, what affects your cost, and available rebates.
Free Written Estimates: Every replacement includes a detailed written estimate with clear pricing, system specifications, warranty information, and installation timeline. No hidden fees, no surprises, no pressure.
Financing Available: 0% interest financing for qualified customers. Ask about seasonal promotions and utility rebates that can reduce your total cost.
Beat the Portland Heat with a New AC!
Don't wait until your system fails during Oregon's scorching summer. Schedule your free replacement estimate today.
Related AC Services
New AC Installation
First-time central air installation for homes adding air conditioning. Includes ductwork if needed.
AC Repair Services
Fast, reliable AC repair to restore your cooling. Same-day emergency service available.
AC Replacement Across Portland Metro
Serving homeowners throughout the greater Portland area
Get a Free AC Replacement Estimate in Portland
Same-day quotes available. We handle permits, rebate paperwork, and installation from start to finish.
How much does AC replacement cost in Portland?
Central AC replacement in Portland starts at $6,995 installed, and premium variable-speed systems top out around $12,500. Price depends on system size, efficiency rating (SEER2), and installation complexity. We provide free written estimates with transparent pricing.
When should I replace my AC instead of repairing it?
Consider AC replacement if your system is 12-15+ years old, repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, uses outdated R-22 refrigerant, experiences frequent breakdowns, or energy bills are rising significantly. In Portland's extreme heat, older systems struggle to maintain efficiency. Our technicians provide honest repair vs. replacement recommendations.
How long does AC replacement take in Portland?
Most AC replacements in Portland take 6-8 hours for straightforward installations. Complex installations requiring ductwork modifications or electrical upgrades may take 1-2 days. Ductless mini-split systems typically install in 4-6 hours. We complete installations efficiently to minimize disruption during Portland's hot weather.
What size AC do I need for my Portland home?
Portland homes typically need 2-3 tons for 1,000-1,500 sq ft, 3-4 tons for 1,500-2,500 sq ft, and 4-5 tons for 2,500+ sq ft. However, Portland's extreme heat, sun exposure, insulation quality, and ceiling height significantly impact sizing. We perform detailed Manual J load calculations to ensure proper sizing for maximum efficiency and comfort.
What SEER rating should I choose for Portland?
For Portland, we recommend minimum 16 SEER for good efficiency and comfort. High-efficiency 18-20+ SEER systems provide maximum savings in Portland's climate where AC runs 8-10 months yearly. Higher SEER systems can save $300-$600 annually on cooling costs. We help you calculate payback periods based on your usage.
Do you offer financing for AC replacement?
Yes, we offer flexible financing options including 0% interest plans for qualified customers. We work with multiple lenders to provide competitive rates and payment plans that fit your budget. You can apply online or ask your technician. Nobody should go without cooling because of a tight budget.
What brands of AC systems do you install?
We install premium AC brands including Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Goodman, Rheem, York, and American Standard. All brands are selected for proven performance in Portland's extreme climate and come with full manufacturer warranties.
Do you handle permits and inspections for AC replacement?
Absolutely! We handle all required permits, city inspections, and code compliance for Portland and surrounding areas. Our installations meet all Oregon building codes and manufacturer specifications. All work is fully licensed, bonded, and insured (CCB #187834).
Reviews from Portland homeowners
A few recent Google reviews from homeowners across the metro. We don't edit them.
Efficiency Heating and Cooling came out to our home to do general maintenance on our furnace and heat pump, and also level our heat pump. Tristan was our technician. His work was efficient and thorough. He explained everything he did and told me what Efficiency H&C had to offering the way of maintenance programs. I am very happy with the services we received.Furnace & heat pump maintenance
This was my first time working with this company, and it was an amazing experience! Wayne was super personable, and explained things thoroughly and transparently. The cost was reasonable and that was with the maintenance membership program we joined. Highly recommend this business!Maintenance membership
I definitely recommend Efficiency! On this year's hottest day my AC quit working and Efficiency was able to send a technician right out. He fixed it quickly (luckily it was not a major issue) and now I'm basking in cool air. Thank you so much!AC repair
Tristan was very thorough with diagnosing the issues with my system and walked me through them so I could better understand my options for repair. We’ve had a few HVAC techs look at our system over the last decade or so, and Tristan was by far the best.System diagnosis
Jason came out for an estimate for a heat pump for my house. He listened to what I was looking for function-wise, evaluated the property, gave me a quote with 4 options, and explained the pros and cons of each. He was thorough, friendly, and not at all condescending (women, if you know, you know). Very professional.Heat pump estimate
I bought a furnace from these folks over 10 years ago and was very impressed with their work. I've had them tune up my furnace every year since and it's still the great quality and friendly service. They are dependable and knowledgeable every time I deal with them. I highly recommend them.Furnace install & tune-ups
Efficiency Heating and Cooling is a great company to work with. They gave me multiple options based on personal wants/needs with my 100+ year old house and were patient helping educate me and navigate to a decision. They were prompt, scheduling was easy, very professional, knowledgeable, and walked through with me how my system works once the job was complete. Couldn’t be happier from beginning to end and would heartily recommend them!100+ year old home
Called so many companies to find someone who did duct work beyond cleaning (I had a leak in the duct) and.so glad I got a hold of these guys. Professional, fast, and thorough. Great all around!Duct leak repair
Hire them immediately! Super fair pricing, great service. My Technician, Tristian was communicative and thorough. I tried hiring another company prior and they had me pre-pay, after tons of no shows and shoddy work followed by more no shows I demanded my money back and happily gave it to Efficiency Heating and Cooling.HVAC service
Tristan was very professional. He was on time and explained everything thoroughly. I appreciated the no pressure conversation of future work that could be done with my heating system.Heating system service
What a great experience with Efficiency. From the estimate process to installation, they made everything seamless and easy. When we hit an unexpected snag during installation, they kept us well informed about what was going on how it might affect the timeline. They got everything done and the system is working great!System installation
The Comfort Plan: HVAC maintenance
Two tune-ups a year, priority scheduling and 15% off repairs. No contract, cancel anytime.
Month-to-month · No long-term contract · Covers one system; add more for a discount
Call us, or send a request and we'll call you.
You'll talk to someone in our Milwaukie office, not a call center. We'll get a tech out and give you the price before any work starts.
(503) 698-5588Rather talk to someone?