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Air Conditioners

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Is It Time to Upgrade Your Air Conditioner?

When Michigan summer arrives with its heat, humidity, and constant weather changes, your air conditioner needs to deliver more than just cool air. It needs to perform efficiently, quietly, and consistently. If your current system runs constantly, struggles to cool certain rooms, or just feels outdated, it may be time for an upgrade.

At Charter Home Comfort, we design and install cooling systems that fit your home and your life. Whether you're replacing an aging system or installing central air for the first time, we guide you through every option to help you make the right decision.

Cooling Systems Tailored to Your Home

Every home has different cooling needs. That’s why we don’t offer cookie-cutter solutions. We begin with a full in-home evaluation, factoring in:

  • Square footage and ceiling height
  • Insulation and window exposure
  • Number of stories
  • Airflow design and duct condition
  • How do you actually use the space

We install both Lennox and Rheem air conditioners — two of the most trusted names in the HVAC industry because they offer a wide range of reliable, high-performance systems. Whether your priority is energy efficiency, advanced comfort control, or budget-conscious reliability, we’ll help you choose the system that fits your home, not just the brand.

The Importance of Proper Sizing: Comfort That Fits Like a Shoe

An air conditioner that’s too big or too small can leave you uncomfortable, no matter how new or expensive it is.

An oversized system cools your home too quickly and shuts off. This may sound efficient, but it leads to short cycling, turning on and off constantly, which wears out the system and fails to control humidity. It’s like wearing shoes that are too big. You’ll feel the discomfort over time, and eventually, something breaks.

An undersized system never quite catches up. It runs constantly, struggling to meet your cooling needs. This is like shoes that are too tight — always working, never quite right.

We calculate the exact cooling load needed for your home to avoid these issues. When your system is sized correctly, it runs smoothly, evenly, and efficiently.

What Is SEER2 and Why Does It Matter?

You may be familiar with SEER — the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio — which used to be the standard for rating air conditioner efficiency. In 2023, SEER2 replaced SEER to provide a more accurate view of real-world performance.

SEER2 takes into account airflow restrictions found in actual homes, not just lab conditions. It gives you a clearer idea of how efficiently your system will run under your roof, with your ductwork and your layout.

The minimum SEER2 rating for new systems in Michigan is 13.4, but higher-rated systems offer greater long-term savings. Many modern units fall in the 15 to 20+ SEER2 range, especially variable-speed and two-stage models.

If your system is more than 10 years old, it likely has a much lower efficiency rating, and replacing it could cut your cooling costs significantly.

Types of Air Conditioners: Which One Is Right for You?

We don’t list individual models because product numbers change every year. What matters is how the system performs — and how well it fits your home.

Variable-Speed Systems

The most advanced option for comfort, control, and efficiency.

Variable-speed air conditioners adjust their output continuously throughout the day. Instead of blasting cold air in short bursts, they run at lower speeds for longer periods. This keeps the temperature consistent and helps control humidity, all while using less energy.

These systems are incredibly quiet and responsive. On cooler days, they might run at 30 to 50 percent capacity. On hot days, they ramp up gradually without the harsh start-stop cycle of traditional units.

Best for:

  • Larger homes
  • Homes with uneven temperatures
  • Quiet, efficient cooling
  • Long-term homeowners

Benefits: Maximum comfort, steady temps, quiet operation, excellent humidity control
Consideration: Higher upfront cost, lower energy bills over time

Two-Stage Systems

A smart balance of performance and value.

Two-stage systems operate at two power levels — low for most days, and high when extra cooling is needed. This reduces temperature swings and allows the system to run longer, pulling more humidity out of the air while using less energy than older single-stage units.

These systems are a great middle-ground for families who want better comfort without the investment of a variable-speed system.

Best for:

  • Most Michigan homes
  • Families looking for better humidity control
  • Replacing aging single-stage systems

Benefits: Efficient performance, less wear and tear, smoother comfort
Consideration: Moderately priced, better results than basic systems

Single-Stage Systems

Simple, dependable, and still highly effective.

Single-stage systems run at full power when cooling is needed and shut off when the set temperature is reached. While they don’t offer the advanced modulation of two-stage or variable-speed systems, they are far more efficient than older units and remain a popular choice for good reason.

If your home is moderate in size and well insulated, a modern single-stage system will still deliver reliable, SEER2-compliant cooling — without overcomplicating the setup or the budget.

Best for:

  • Smaller homes or one-story layouts
  • Straightforward installs
  • Homeowners prioritize cost and reliability

Benefits: Affordable, efficient, and far better than most older systems
Consideration: Slightly higher energy use and less precise control, but still a strong upgrade

Energy Efficiency Credits Available

Thanks to the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, you may qualify for:

  • Up to $600 for a high-efficiency central air conditioner
  • Up to $2,000 for a qualifying heat pump

These federal tax incentives are available through 2025. We’ll help you choose qualifying systems and provide the documentation you need for filing.

Why Homeowners Trust Charter Home Comfort

We’re not here to sell you more than you need. We’re here to get it right.

  • We size your system correctly — not by rule of thumb
  • We explain your options in clear language
  • We recommend what’s best for your home, not our bottom line
  • We stay available after installation if questions come up

We’re based right here in Southeast Michigan, and we take care of our neighbors the same way we’d want to be treated.

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on the size of the home, how it's used, and your comfort preferences. In general, variable-speed and two-stage systems offer the best comfort and energy efficiency for Michigan's humid summers. That said, a properly sized single-stage system can still be a great fit for smaller homes or basic upgrades.

SEER2 reflects real-world efficiency, including airflow resistance through ductwork. It gives a more realistic picture of how your AC system will perform in your home. It's now the official standard for new air conditioners in the U.S.

Yes, especially if you're staying in your home long-term. It delivers smoother comfort, quieter operation, better humidity control, and significant energy savings over time.

A two-stage system runs at a lower speed most of the time and only switches to full power when needed. This allows for more consistent temperatures and less energy use. A single-stage system always runs at full power but is simpler and less expensive upfront.

A proper installation goes beyond just swapping out equipment. We assess your home’s ductwork, insulation, system size, and airflow balance to ensure your new AC performs as it should. Our team handles everything — from removing the old system to setting up the new one with precision, safety, and manufacturer-approved practices.

For a full breakdown of our process, see our Installation Guide.

Yes. We work with Lennox and Rheem because both offer proven reliability, high-efficiency options, and strong manufacturer support. Each has systems that fit a wide range of needs, from basic installs to advanced comfort setups.

Yes. If your system meets current efficiency requirements, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $600 for central air or $2,000 for heat pumps. We’ll guide you through the qualifying process.

Get the Best Deal on Cooling in Metro Detroit

We offer affordable systems, transparent pricing, and the best service in Southeast Michigan. Contact us today or request a free estimate — and experience comfort done right.

Charter Home Comfort

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