Costs move with home size, system type, efficiency rating, and installation complexity (ductwork, electrical, permits). Most Columbus installations run $3,500–$8,000; most Indianapolis installations run $3,500–$7,500. Dayton pricing depends on the same factors, every homeowner gets a full written estimate before work begins.
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We’re available 24/7 for heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical emergencies.
Call UsWHEN TO REPLACE
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your AC
Not every AC problem calls for a new system. But when these signs appear, replacement is usually the smarter investment over another repair, whether you’re in Indianapolis, Columbus, or Dayton:
System is 10–15+ years old
Repair costs exceed half the price of a new unit
Rising energy bills with no explanation
Uneven cooling or hot spots throughout the house
Frequent breakdowns / repairs needed more than once a season
Strange noises or odors
Uses R-22 refrigerant
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
What Indiana & Ohio Homeowners Are Saying
The best stories about Bassett Services are the ones our neighbors tell, from Carmel and Greenwood to Columbus, Granville, and Newark.
Michele Franklin
3 months agoI had Tommy Webber come out today to do the spring check up on My AC unit, He was very thorough explained a lot of different things. He was very Professional and polite.
Paul
3 months agoThomas was professional and went a step above. Did a great job to show me everything that I had to keep an eye on and cleaned up like he wasn’t never there. Price wise I’m on their membership program we bought with our new system. They’ve been good so far and it’s been a few yrs now.
Michelle Mullins
4 months agoShowed up on time. Respectful, kind, and efficient. I’m sure my husband could have replaced the capacitor but for the price and convenience we were happy to spend our money here. They installed our furnace last year and we have always happy with CJS.
Richard Wirey
5 months agoTyler came in explained in detail what was about to take place and what I needed. Fixed and arranged it for me to pay with ease. The whole task was simple and fast. I would recommend your services with your company anytime to anyone! Thank you so much for helping us!
A Wal
5 months agoWe had an issue with our sump pump going off, even though there wasn’t any water problem, and it turned out the entire unit needed to be replaced. We called Bassett that morning, and they were able to offer same-day service, which we really appreciated. Throughout the day, I received texts and calls keeping me updated that they were still coming, even as other jobs ran longer. I didn’t mind the delay at all—it was clear they were doing their best to fit us in. Josh arrived later in the day and spent a few hours replacing the sump pump. He explained everything clearly and was both informative and understanding throughout the process. He also took the time to look at another issue, took photos and measurements, and said he would follow up after speaking with his boss. What really stood out was his professionalism and attitude. Even after 6 p.m., when he mentioned he still had two more stops to go, he never once rushed or made us feel like just another job. He made us feel like a priority, and that meant a lot. We’re very grateful for the service and would absolutely recommend Bassett, and especially Josh, to others.
Michelle McElwee
7 months agoWe got estimates for a new water softener. I hadn't compared prices anywhere else. After receiving your estimate I called another service. To install and replace it was 5 and 6000 dollars less. Wow what a difference. We are going with the other service. Dale was great. He was very helpful. And so nice. The gal on the phone was also nice. Overall great experience. It just a money thing. Thank you so much Have a nice spring, Michelle
WHY HIRE A PROFESSIONAL
Proper AC Installation Is the Foundation of Long-Term Performance
The brand matters. So does who installs it. A system that’s incorrectly sized or improperly set up will underperform, break down sooner, and cost more to operate, regardless of which Midwest city it’s in.
Bassett Services technicians are highly trained, licensed, background-checked, and NATE-certified, with nearly 50 years of combined installation experience across Indiana and Ohio. In Indianapolis, our technicians are also certified to install Bryant air conditioning systems. Bryant’s residential business is headquartered right here in Indianapolis and manufactured by Carrier Global, one of the largest heating and cooling companies in the world, so your equipment warranty stays intact and your system runs at rated efficiency from day one.
We run a Manual J load calculation on every home we visit, in every market we serve. Square footage, ceiling height, insulation, window placement, and sun exposure all factor in. Guessing leads to oversized or undersized equipment; we measure instead.
Since 1978. Founded in Indianapolis, still locally rooted, with nearly 50 years of installation experience across Indiana and Ohio.- NATE-Certified Technicians. Licensed, insured, background-checked, and trained to manufacturer spec, including certified Bryant installation in Indianapolis.
- 105% Satisfaction Guarantee. If it isn’t right, we’ll make it right.
- Upfront Pricing. You see the number before we lift a wrench, in Indianapolis, Columbus, or Dayton.
- Manual J Load Calculations on Every Job. Right-sized for your home, not your invoice.
- Financing Available. On qualifying systems, for homeowners across our service area.
- Midwest Neighbors. We live here. We work here. We answer the phone here.
HVAC ZONING SYSTEMS
Take Advantage of HVAC Zoning Systems
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SYSTEM
Central Air or Ductless Mini-Split? Choosing the Right System for Your Home
Not every cooling system is the right fit for every home. Here’s what Indianapolis, Columbus, and Dayton homeowners should know before choosing a new system.
UPFRONT PRICING
What Does AC Installation Cost?
Not every cooling system is the right fit for every home. Here’s what Indianapolis, Columbus, and Dayton homeowners should know before choosing a new system.
Protect Your Investment with the Bassett Watchdog Home Coverage Club
A new AC system is a significant investment. The Watchdog Club protects it. Members get priority scheduling with no dispatch fees, free annual system inspections, repair discounts, and a $120 annual loyalty credit toward new systems, all designed to extend equipment life and catch small problems before they become expensive ones, no matter which of our service areas you’re in.
- Priority service scheduling (no dispatch fees)
- Free annual full HVAC service health check (includes furnace & AC inspection)
- 20% off HVAC repairs
- 10% off plumbing repairs & installs
- 10% off electrical repairs & installs
- Free plumbing maintenance & safety inspection
- Free electrical maintenance & safety inspection
- $120 annual loyalty credit for new systems & generators (up to $1,200)
- $14.95/month (same address only)
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Installation
What does AC installation cost?
How do I know what size system my home needs?
Proper sizing is about more than square footage. Our technicians evaluate insulation, window placement, ceiling height, ductwork condition, and how your family uses the space with a Manual J load calculation: the industry standard, on every home, in every market we serve.
What is the "$5,000 rule" for replacing a cooling system?
Multiply your current system’s age (in years) by the cost of the repair you’re weighing. If the total is over $5,000, replacement is often the smarter long-term call. It’s a helpful starting point: an in-home evaluation gives you a clearer answer based on your actual equipment and home.
How long does AC installation take?
Most standard installations across Indianapolis, Columbus, and Dayton are completed in a single day, typically 4 to 8 hours. More complex jobs involving full ductwork replacement, multi-zone systems, or difficult equipment access can extend to two days. Your technician will give you a realistic timeline as part of your upfront estimate.
Do you offer AC installation financing?
Yes. Bassett Services offers financing options on qualifying systems in all of our service areas. Ask your technician for current terms when you schedule your estimate.
What brands does Bassett Services install?
In Indianapolis, Bassett Services is an authorized Bryant dealer. Bryant’s residential business is headquartered in Indianapolis and manufactured by Carrier Global, one of the largest HVAC companies in the world, known for reliability, efficiency, and strong warranty terms.
What is SEER2 and why does it matter?
SEER2 is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2, the current federal standard for measuring AC efficiency. Higher SEER2 ratings mean the unit uses less electricity to produce the same amount of cooling: meaningful savings across a full Midwest cooling season, whichever city you’re in.
What are the common installation challenges in older vs. newer homes?
In Columbus, that means century-old homes in German Village and Victorian Village with limited equipment access and aging ductwork, versus newer construction in Dublin and Westerville with tighter attic clearances, and homes built before 1980 that often need an electrical panel upgrade. Bassett technicians plan for these conditions on every job and communicate before any additional work affects cost or timeline.
Central air or ductless mini-split: what's the difference?
Central AC uses your home’s existing ductwork to distribute cooled air through vents. A ductless mini-split has an outdoor compressor connected to indoor air handlers mounted directly in the rooms being cooled, no ducts required. Mini-splits are ideal for homes without existing ductwork, room additions, or spaces that never cool well with central air.
How do I maintain my new AC after installation?
Replace air filters every 1 to 3 months, keep the outdoor condenser clear of vegetation, and schedule a professional tune-up every spring before cooling season. Watchdog Club members get a free annual full HVAC service health check (includes furnace and AC inspection) as part of their plan.
What areas do you serve near Indianapolis, Columbus, and Dayton?
Indianapolis: Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, Avon, Plainfield. Columbus: Central Ohio communities including Dublin and Westerville. Dayton: Kettering, Beavercreek, Huber Heights, Miamisburg, Centerville, Springboro, Fairborn, Vandalia, Englewood. Call the number for your area above and we’ll confirm coverage right away. RELATED SERVICES
RELATED SERVICES
More Cooling Services from Bassett
AC Emergency Services
Whether you’re in need of a quick tune-up, a complex repair, or considering a whole new furnace installation, Bassett is committed to delivering top-notch service with utmost professionalism.
AC Installation
Our expert team is equipped to handle installations of all types of air conditioning units, including central air conditioning systems, packaged central air systems, and indoor air handlers. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive the best value and performance from your air conditioning system.
AC Maintenance
With a steadfast commitment to excellence, we’ve established ourselves as a leading provider of air conditioning maintenance services across Indiana and Ohio.
AC Repair
Whether you need a new air conditioner installed or your existing unit requires repair, our experienced technicians are ready to help.
Ductless Mini-Splits
At Bassett Services, our team of ductless mini-split installers is available to assist you in selecting the ideal system for your home and to elucidate the numerous benefits they offer.
Mini Split Installation
As part of our suite of offerings, we specialize in furnace installations, a service essential for maintaining optimal heating performance and energy efficiency in your home.
Mini Split Maintenance
At Bassett Services, we pride ourselves on offering top-tier furnace maintenance services in Indianapolis.
Mini Split Repair
Whether you’re in need of a quick tune-up, a complex repair, or considering a whole new furnace installation, Bassett is committed to delivering top-notch service with utmost professionalism.
Smart Thermostat Installation
Your thermostat plays a very important role in maintaining your home’s comfort and temperature throughout the day. Smart thermostats elevate temperature control by syncing with mobile devices, tablets, smart speakers, and other internet-enabled gadgets.