

Does My AC Need Repair or Replacement?
While AC repair can resolve minor issues, knowing when to replace your air conditioner is key to making informed decisions for your investment. Debating between AC repair vs. replacement?
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Age: In Florida, air conditioners generally last anywhere from 10-15 years on average. If your AC unit is past its prime, it might be time to consider a replacement.
- Recurring repairs: If you’re spending money on recurring repairs that cost more than half the price of a new cooling system, replacing your AC can be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Energy bills: Older AC units are less efficient, resulting in higher energy costs. Investing in a new air conditioner can save you money on monthly utility bills.
- Poor indoor air quality: If your system fails to effectively filter dust, pollen, and other pollutants from the air, it might be time to replace your AC unit.
Remember, recognizing the warning signs of a failing AC system is crucial to saving time and money on recurring repairs and surging energy costs. Our Port St. Lucie air conditioning installation team can inspect your current system and recommend a suitable replacement for your property and budget!




How Can I Tell if My AC Needs Replacing?
Like any appliance, your air conditioner isn’t built to last forever. Installing a new unit is essential to maintain the comfort, safety, and efficiency of your Port St. Lucie home or business. How can you tell when your air conditioner is nearing the end of its life?
Here are some warning signs it’s time to install a new AC unit:
- Increased energy bills: If you’ve noticed rising energy costs without any changes in usage patterns, it might be time to replace your air conditioner.
- Insufficient cooling: If your AC has a clean filter but no longer provides consistent cooling, it’s time to contact our experts for professional replacement.
- Unusual sounds: Modern air conditioners are known for their quiet operation. If your AC unit is buzzing, squealing, grinding, or rattling, this may be a sign of system failure.
- Foul odors: While it’s normal for your cooling system to give off a musty smell when you first turn it on, unpleasant odors are a clear sign that your AC needs professional attention.
- R22 refrigerant use: Units using R22 refrigerant, which is being phased out, need replacement.
Need to replace your AC, but not sure where to start? No problem! The Port St. Lucie AC replacement experts at First Choice Plus Plumbing & Air offer a variety of reliable systems and financing plans to help you find the best cooling solutions for your commercial or residential needs.

How Long Does AC Installation Take?
Standard AC installation generally takes anywhere from 4-8 hours to complete. The exact timeframe will vary based on several factors, such as the type of cooling system, the complexity of the installation, existing infrastructure, and local weather conditions.
You may face longer wait times if:
- You’re installing a more complex system, such as replacing a wall-mounted unit with a ducted air conditioner.
- Your property needs extensive modifications or upgrades to existing ductwork or electrical systems.
- Your local area experiences adverse weather conditions, affecting the scheduling and efficiency of the installation.
- The type or layout of your property makes it difficult to access installation areas, requiring additional time to maneuver equipment and properly complete the new installation.
What Is the Required SEER Rating for Air Conditioners in Florida?
SEER ratings (“seasonal energy efficiency ratio”) measure an air conditioner’s energy efficiency using a scale from 13 to 25. The higher the SEER rating, the greater the energy efficiency. As of 2023, the state of Florida requires a minimum SEER requirement of 15 for centralized air conditioners or 14 for single-packaged air conditioners.
Enhancing Comfort with AC Replacement
Upgrading your AC unit in Port St. Lucie is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency. Newer models offer significant advantages over older units.
- Energy Efficiency - Modern ACs are designed for optimal energy use, reducing your bills.
- Improved Air Quality -Advanced filtering technologies deliver cleaner indoor air.
- Enhanced Comfort - Consistent, effective cooling throughout your home.
- Reduced Carbon Footprint -Energy-efficient models contribute to a healthier planet.
- Reliability -Minimize the risk of breakdowns during peak use.
- Modern Features -Smart thermostats and zoning capabilities enhance user control.
Types of Air Conditioning Units We Can Install
Whether you’re looking to enhance your residential space or optimize your commercial environment, our air conditioning installation services in Port St. Lucie are designed to meet your unique needs!
We install a wide range of AC systems, including:
- Cassette Air Conditioning Systems: Cassette systems fit discreetly in suspended ceilings, making them a perfect choice for offices and retail spaces. Their sleek design and four-way blow provide even air distribution, creating a comfortable and inviting indoor atmosphere.
- Under-Ceiling Units: Under-ceiling units are slim, versatile, and can be installed to maximize space without compromising performance. These systems are ideal for low-ceiling applications, making them a popular option for smaller rooms or spaces.
- Ducted Air Conditioning: Ducted air conditioning systems offer out-of-sight cooling solutions and excellent airflow through strategically placed supply grills, making them an excellent choice for properties with low ceilings and larger, open-plan areas.
- Wall-Mounted Units: Wall-mounted air conditioning units are simple to install and efficient, making them a popular option for smaller offices and households.
- Floor-Standing Units: Floor-standing units distribute warm air evenly. These systems are especially suitable for conservatories, kitchens, and areas with limited wall space.
- Domestic Air Conditioning: Our Port St. Lucie experts install domestic air conditioning systems as primary heating sources, reducing energy bills and enhancing indoor comfort. We offer energy-efficient options from Mitsubishi and other leading brands backed by special warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.
Why Choose First Choice Plus Plumbing & Air?
Since opening our doors in 2007, our family-owned company has provided comprehensive cooling solutions when our Florida neighbors need them most. Whether you’re frustrated with insufficient cooling in your business or looking to reduce energy costs in your household, you can trust the Port St. Lucie AC replacement techs at First Choice Plus Plumbing & Air to deliver lasting solutions and fast, friendly service! We take pride in offering straightforward pricing and same-day appointments for your convenience.
If your AC isn’t performing as well as it should in Port St. Lucie, we can recommend effective solutions to restore your indoor comfort! Contact us online to request a quote.

SEE WHAT YOUR NEIGHBORS ARE SAYING!
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Excellent response time - our calls are always emergencies. They don't waste your time or money. Can't say enough good things.
- Former Customer -
First choice to the rescue… Again. They called back right away after I left a message, communicating with me throughout the day of their ETA and the tech knew exactly what to do.
- Mark T. -
Wouldn't call anyone else. can't thank them enough for helping me every time.- Larry
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Jacob is a very knowledgeable with regard to our new 80 gallon water heater. He introduced himself to my wife and I. We could tell immediately that he knew exactly how to replace the large water heater. With in a few hours he had the unit in and we got our hot water up and running. I could not believe that he was able to install it without any help.
- Harold P. -
Awesome experience. Called around 10am and got a same day appointment. Discussed a budget with the dispatcher. The tech came out within the timeframe quoted.
- Patrick C. -
Great service. Great interaction. Problem fixed quickly and area cleaned up very well. Vincent did a wonderful job. We have great confidence in him doing exactly what he says he will do and getting the job done.
- Robert H. -
Satisfied customer. Jayden was professional and easy to talk to. He explained very clearly what the issue was and what was needed to fix it. He provided details of the work he was completing before and after he finished.
- Allison J. -
Truly superb and outstanding. We've used several plumbers here in Port St. Lucie and thought they were okay but when our kitchen sink wouldn't drain in our 50+ year old house, the others only charged money without fixing our problem. First Choice not only arrived quickly and charged a very fair price, they worked tirelessly snaking the sink plumbing and roof exhaust until the debris clogging things up was removed and our sink was in excellent working condition. We strongly recommend them.
- Brenda K.

What Is Included in Our AC Replacement Services?
Our AC replacement services are designed to provide a seamless transition to efficient and effective cooling. When you call First Choice Plus Plumbing & Air for professional air conditioning replacement, you can expect:
- Customized recommendations: Our team can recommend customized solutions tailored to your property and preferences, maximizing comfort and efficiency in your home or business.
- Professional installation: Our certified technicians adhere to the highest standards for safety and quality. We can make sure your new AC is installed professionally and correctly for optimal performance.
- Efficient cooling systems: We offer a wide selection of state-of-the-art AC units from top manufacturers to help property owners reduce energy costs while enjoying optimal comfort.
- Energy savings analysis: Our team can conduct a comparative analysis to highlight the potential cost savings of upgrading to a new, more energy-efficient cooling system.
- Full system review: Before completing an installation, our team will examine your ductwork and ventilation to optimize your whole HVAC system for your new air conditioner, improving efficiency and air quality.
- Aftercare support: With First Choice Plus Plumbing & Air, support is just a call away. We provide ongoing guidance to help property owners maintain their new AC systems while enjoying peak functionality and durability.
In addition to our comprehensive services, we also offer education on how to maintain your system year-round. This includes tips on seasonal maintenance, optimal temperature settings for energy savings, and when to schedule routine check-ups. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to get the most from your investment.
Understanding the importance of seamless integration, our team takes special care to dismantle and dispose of old units responsibly, adhering to environmental standards and ensuring that your property remains clean and safe throughout the replacement process.

