Central AC
Air conditioner
A central air conditioner moves heat from inside your home to the outside. An outdoor condenser works with an indoor coil on top of your furnace, and the furnace blower sends cooled air through your ducts. It cools only — it can't heat.
How it works
Absorbs indoor heat
Refrigerant in the indoor coil absorbs heat and moisture from house air.
Releases it outside
The outdoor condenser releases that heat to the outside air.
Cool air through ducts
The furnace blower sends cooled, drier air through your vents.
Is it right for your home?
Great for
- Homes that only need to replace cooling right now
- Homes keeping a newer furnace for heating
Think twice if
- Homeowners replacing an AC anyway — a heat pump costs more but also heats
- Homes aiming to reduce gas heating
Pros
- Reliable whole-home cooling and dehumidifying
- Works with your existing furnace and ducts
Cons
- Cooling only — no heating
- Not eligible for Home Renovation Savings heat pump rebates
- A heat pump does the same cooling job and also heats
Air conditioner or heat pump?
A heat pump is an air conditioner that can also run in reverse to heat your home. If you're replacing your AC, a heat pump gives you the same summer cooling plus efficient heating — and it can qualify for Home Renovation Savings rebates, which an AC does not.
Home Renovation Savings
Air conditioners are not covered by Home Renovation Savings heat pump rebates. Choosing a cold-climate heat pump — alone or as a hybrid with your furnace — can qualify.
What affects the cost
- Cooling capacity (tons)
- Efficiency rating (SEER2)
- Indoor coil and line-set replacement
- Electrical work
Every home is different — installers quote after a site visit and heat-loss calculation.
Keeping it running well
- Replace the furnace filter every 1–3 months
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of plants and debris
- Annual check of refrigerant and coils
Common questions
Is a heat pump just an AC?
It uses the same refrigeration cycle, but a reversing valve lets it heat as well as cool.
Are there rebates for a new AC?
Home Renovation Savings rebates cover heat pumps, not air conditioners. Choosing a heat pump instead can qualify.
How long does an AC last?
Typically around 10–15 years, depending on maintenance and usage.