AC Installation
Top Brands & High-Efficiency Systems
Professional Residential AC Installation
Gilley’s Heating & Air Conditioning provides expert air conditioner installation for homes across Rockford, Loves Park, Machesney Park, and nearby Northern Illinois communities. Our licensed, EPA-certified technicians install all major brands and high-efficiency systems to keep your home cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient.
We are factory-certified dealers for American Standard. Gilley’s installs energy-efficient AC units with the latest features, including variable-speed blowers, smart thermostats, and environmentally friendly refrigerants. Manual J load calculations ensure your system is correctly sized for your Rockford home.
Signs You Need a New AC Installation
Consider installing a new air conditioner if:
- Your current system is over 12 years old
- Cooling is uneven or inconsistent
- Energy bills are rising despite normal usage
- Frequent repairs are needed
- Your system uses outdated refrigerants like R-22
- You want modern energy-efficient cooling for your home
A properly installed system improves comfort, efficiency, and indoor air quality. Call (815) 962-1927 today.
Our AC Installation Process
- Schedule Your Consultation – Call (815) 962-1927 or request a service online. Same-day appointments are usually available.
- Home Assessment & Recommendations: Our technicians evaluate your home, ductwork, and cooling needs, providing multiple high-efficiency options.
- Professional Installation: Complete installation including electrical connections, refrigerant lines, thermostat setup, and system verification.
- System Testing & Performance Check: We run multiple cooling cycles, verify airflow, check thermostat accuracy, and ensure safe operation.
All installations are backed by manufacturer warranties and 1-year labor guarantee.
Why Local Homeowners Rely on Gilley’s for AC Installation
Since 1985, Gilley’s Heating & Air Conditioning has been a trusted name for residential air conditioner installation across Rockford, Loves Park, Machesney Park, and surrounding Northern Illinois areas. Our team of licensed, EPA-certified professionals ensures that every system is installed efficiently, safely, and backed by a 1-year manufacturer's warranty and 1-year labor guarantee.
- Decades of Expertise: Over 40 years of experience installing and servicing home cooling systems in Northern Illinois.
- Top-Quality Brands & Energy-Efficient Options: We install American Standard, with proper sizing to maximize comfort and efficiency.
- Financial Support & Incentives: We guide you through federal tax credits (when available), local utility rebates, manufacturer promotions, and offer financing options for approved customers.
- Proven Performance: Thousands of successful installations delivering reliable, high-performance cooling systems for homes throughout Rockford and nearby communities.
Service Area — Rockford and Surrounding Communities
We serve Rockford, Loves Park, Machesney Park, Belvidere, Cherry Valley, Roscoe, South Beloit, Poplar Grove, Pecatonica, Winnebago, and other nearby areas.
Schedule Your AC Installation Today
Call (815) 962-1927 or request service via email to install a new, energy-efficient AC system in your Rockford home. Trust Gilley’s to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does AC installation cost in Rockford?
Complete AC installation in Rockford typically costs $4,000-$8,000 depending on system type and complexity. Central air systems range $4,000-$8,000, ductless mini-splits cost $3,500-$12,000 depending on zones, and heat pumps run $5,500-$10,000. High-efficiency systems qualify for rebates that reduce your net cost. We provide free estimates with multiple options at different price points, plus help you access all available incentives.
How long does AC installation take?
Most AC installations take 4-10 hours and are completed in a single day when ductwork exists. Installation extends to 2-4 days if you need complete ductwork installation for homes without existing HVAC (adding 1-3 days), electrical service upgrades for 200-amp panel capacity (adding 4-6 hours), or multiple zones for ductless mini-split systems (adding 2-3 hours per zone). We provide an accurate timeline after assessing your specific situation during the free consultation.
What size AC do I need for my home?
AC size depends on square footage, insulation quality, window count and orientation, ceiling height, and home layout. We perform load calculations to size your system correctly—not rough square footage estimates. General guidelines: 1,000-1,400 sq ft needs 2-2.5 ton; 1,800-2,400 sq ft needs 3-4 ton; 2,400-3,000 sq ft needs 4-5 ton. Proper sizing prevents short-cycling, ensures dehumidification, and maximizes efficiency.
Should I install central air or ductless mini-split?
Choose central air if you have existing ductwork or can install ducts, want whole-home cooling with one thermostat, and prefer the lowest cost per ton of cooling capacity ($4,000-$8,000). Choose ductless mini-split if you're cooling a home addition or specific rooms, have an older home where ductwork installation is impractical, want individual room temperature control, or need superior energy efficiency with no duct losses ($3,500-$12,000 depending on zones). We'll assess your specific situation and recommend the best option.
How efficient are new AC systems?
New AC systems range from 13-20 SEER compared to 8-10 SEER for systems installed before 2006. A 15 SEER system uses 40-50% less electricity than older 10 SEER models, saving $200-$400 annually on cooling costs. High-efficiency 18+ SEER systems with variable-speed technology provide even greater savings, better dehumidification during humid Rockford summers, and quieter operation. Most homeowners choose 15 SEER for the best balance of efficiency and value.
Do you remove old AC equipment?
Yes, complete old system removal and proper disposal is included in our installation service at no additional charge. We remove both outdoor condensing units and indoor evaporator coils, cap refrigerant lines properly, haul away all old equipment, and ensure your property is left clean. We handle all EPA-required refrigerant recovery following environmental regulations.
Do I need a permit for AC installation in Rockford?
Yes, AC installation in Rockford requires a building permit to ensure code compliance and safety. Gilley's handles all permit applications, inspections, and paperwork as part of our complete installation service. This protects you by ensuring your new system meets all local codes, maintains your homeowner's insurance coverage, and doesn't create issues when selling your home.
