High-Efficiency AC Installation & Replacement
in Orange County, CA
Don’t settle for a “box swap”.
Experience the comfort of a precision-engineered cooling system designed to lower your SoCal Edison bills and last for decades.
Is It Time to Retire Your Old Air Conditioner?
In Orange County, air conditioners work hard.
If your system is over 10-15 years old, it likely uses outdated R-22 refrigerant and consumes 30-50% more electricity than modern units.
Signs you need a replacement, not just a repair:
Rising Energy Bills: Your usage stays the same, but your bill keeps climbing.
Frequent Breakdowns: You are paying for repairs every summer.
Uneven Cooling: Upstairs is hot, downstairs is freezing.
Noise: Your outdoor unit rattles or buzzes loudly.
The Maksbuilder Solution: We don’t just sell you a unit; we design a Comfort System. We install advanced SEER2-compliant systems that run quieter, cool faster, and dehumidify better.
Why Neighbors in Lake Forest & Irvine Choose Us
Most contractors simply look at the size of your old unit (e.g., “It’s a 3-ton, let’s put in a 3-ton”).
This is a mistake.
Often, builder-grade units were sized incorrectly from day one.
We take an Engineering Approach:
- Manual J Load Calculation: We measure your home’s square footage, windows, insulation levels, and orientation. We calculate the exact cooling load required to keep you comfortable.
- Ductwork Audit: A new Ferrari engine won’t work with flat tires. We inspect your ductwork for leaks and airflow restrictions to ensure your new AC delivers 100% of its capacity.
- Title 24 Compliance: We handle all California state energy permits and HERS testing, ensuring your installation adds legal value to your home.
Modern Cooling Options for Every Budget
We partner with top brands like Daikin, Carrier, and Trane to offer three levels of performance:
1. Variable Speed (Inverter) Systems – The Ultimate Comfort
- Best for: Homeowners staying in their home for 5+ years.
- How it works: Like a car accelerator, these units (such as the Daikin Fit) adjust their speed in tiny increments. They run longer at low power to maintain a perfect, consistent temperature.
- Benefit: Whisper-quiet operation and maximum energy savings.
2. Two-Stage Systems – The Balanced Choice
- Best for: Two-story homes and active families.
- How it works: Has a “High” setting for hot afternoons and a “Low” setting for mild days.
- Benefit: Better humidity control and comfort than standard units.
3. Single-Stage Systems – The Budget Solution
- Best for: Rental properties or budget-conscious replacements.
- How it works: Traditional “On/Off” operation.
- Benefit: Reliable cooling at the lowest upfront cost.
Considering a switch to electric?
Check out our Heat Pump Installation Page for dual heating and cooling solutions.
Our 5-Step Precision Installation
We treat your home with respect. Here is what to expect on installation day:
- Site Protection: We lay down drop cloths and wear shoe covers to protect your floors.
- Safety Removal: We safely recover old refrigerant (EPA certified) and remove the old equipment.
- Precision Install: We braze copper lines with nitrogen purging (to prevent oxidation) and vacuum the system to below 500 microns. Technical detail matters!
- Commissioning: We don’t just turn it on. We measure static pressure, subcooling, and superheat to “tune” the system to your home.
- Walkthrough: We show you how to use your new Smart Thermostat and register your 10-Year Manufacturer Warranty.
Make Your New AC Affordable
A new HVAC system is an investment in your home’s value. We remove the financial stress with flexible payment options.
- 0% Interest Financing: Available for up to 18 months via Synchrony.
- GoGreen Financing: Long-term, low-payment plans for energy-efficient upgrades.
- Utility Rebates: We help you navigate SoCal Edison and TECH Clean California rebates to put money back in your pocket.
Common Questions About AC Installation
- Q: How much does a new AC cost in Orange County?
- A: The cost varies based on size (tons) and efficiency (SEER2). A standard replacement typically ranges from $7,000 to $12,000, while high-efficiency variable systems can range from $13,000 to $18,000+. We provide exact, transparent quotes.
- Q: How long does installation take?
- A: Most standard replacements in Lake Forest or Mission Viejo are completed in one day.
- Q: What is SEER2?
- A: SEER2 is the new 2023 efficiency standard. The higher the number, the less electricity the unit uses. In California, the minimum is 14.3, but we recommend 16+ for best savings.
Proudly Installing Comfort in South Orange County
Based in Lake Forest, Maksbuilder provides rapid installation services to:
- Irvine
- Mission Viejo
- Aliso Viejo
- Rancho Santa Margarita
- Laguna Hills
Proudly Installing Comfort in South Orange County
Ready for a Cooler, Quieter Home?
Schedule your free engineering assessment today. No pressure, just honest options.
