Central Air Conditioning Installation in Des Moines, IA
When summer heat arrives in Des Moines, a reliable air conditioning system isn't a luxury—it's essential. Whether you're building new construction, upgrading an aging system, or adding cooling to a home without AC, Obsidian Heating and Cooling has been the trusted choice for central AC installation since 2009. We're a veteran-owned, Tempstar Elite Dealer, and we handle every installation with precision, integrity, and a focus on long-term comfort. Our experienced technicians understand the unique climate demands of central Iowa, and we're here to help you select, install, and protect your investment in home comfort.
Up to 15-Year Warranty
Parts & Labor
Why Choose Obsidian for Your AC Installation
How We Handle Your AC Installation
From the first assessment to the final walkthrough, every step is handled with precision and care. Here's what to expect when you choose Obsidian Heating and Cooling for your central AC installation.
Initial Home Assessment & Load Calculation
Our first visit is about listening and measuring. We'll walk through your home, ask about your comfort zones, and assess insulation, window placement, ductwork condition, and square footage. We then perform a detailed load calculation—a technical analysis that determines exactly how many tons of cooling your home needs. This prevents oversizing (wasted energy) and undersizing (inadequate cooling). We'll also check your existing ductwork to identify any leaks or restrictions that could reduce efficiency.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that ductwork is often the weakest link in an AC system. Even a well-designed unit loses efficiency if your ducts are leaking 20–30% of the cooled air into an attic or crawlspace. During our assessment, we use specialized tools to test ductwork integrity and identify problem areas. We'll recommend sealing, insulation improvements, or complete duct replacement if necessary—because a new AC system deserves pristine delivery infrastructure.
Our technicians also evaluate your home's insulation value, sun exposure (east vs. west windows receive different heat loads), and any thermal issues that affect cooling demands. Des Moines summers can be humid, and we factor in moisture load when sizing your equipment. High humidity can sometimes be addressed with supplemental dehumidification or indoor air quality upgrades, which we'll discuss if relevant. The goal is precision—your system will be neither oversized nor undersized, and you'll know exactly why we're recommending the capacity we choose.
What We Cover
Manual J Load Calculation
Industry best practice for precise system sizing.
Ductwork Inspection
Testing for leaks, blockages, and proper sizing.
Solar & Thermal Analysis
Assessing heat gain, insulation R-value, and air sealing.
Electrical Panel Review
Ensuring proper capacity for the new system.
Equipment Selection & Written Proposal
Once we understand your needs, we present options. Tempstar offers multiple efficiency tiers and features—variable-speed compressors for quieter, more efficient operation; two-stage cooling for better humidity control; smart thermostat compatibility. We'll explain the trade-offs and recommend what makes sense for your home and climate. You'll receive a detailed written proposal that includes equipment specs, warranty information, financing options, and the full installation timeline.
Choosing the right equipment is about balancing upfront cost with long-term value. A high-efficiency system costs more initially but pays for itself through lower energy bills. A mid-range system is ideal for many homeowners. We model your expected cooling costs for each option so you can make an informed decision, and our guide to AC installation costs in Des Moines breaks down what drives the price. We also discuss refrigerant types—modern systems use environmentally friendly refrigerants that are more expensive but required by law. If budget is tight, our flexible financing options make premium equipment accessible without financial stress.
What You'll Receive
Equipment Specs & Warranty
Detailed coverage outlined in full.
Efficiency Comparison
Performance differences between SEER2 levels.
Cost Savings Estimate
Seasonal savings based on your usage patterns.
Financing Options
Multiple plans to fit your budget.
Full Q&A
Every question answered before you commit.
Preparation & Ductwork Inspection
Before installation day, we prepare your home. Our crew will identify where the outdoor unit will sit, confirm that electrical infrastructure is ready, and create an installation schedule that works around your schedule. If your ductwork needs repair or sealing, we'll address that before the new system starts—a poorly sealed duct system can lose 20–30% of your cooling capacity.
Preparation also includes coordinating with your utility company if a panel upgrade is needed, scheduling any necessary ductwork modifications, and ensuring your home is ready for the installation crew. We'll brief you on what to expect, where our team will be working, and any inconveniences you might experience during the installation. We also discuss thermostat placement—ideally on an interior wall away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Preparation Checklist
Outdoor Unit Placement
Marked for optimal airflow and access.
Electrical Verification
Service capacity and panel readiness confirmed.
Ductwork Sealed & Tested
All existing ducts inspected for leaks before install.
Old Equipment Removal
Removed safely and responsibly.
Electrical Upgrades
Scheduled if needed for your new system.
Family Briefing
Installation day logistics and timeline explained.
Professional Equipment Installation
Installation day is where expertise shows. Our technicians carefully unload and position the outdoor condenser unit, run refrigerant lines with proper insulation and slope, connect the indoor coil to your existing furnace or air handler, install the new thermostat, and pressure-test every connection. We never rush—every solder joint, every sealed connection, every electrical termination is inspected. When we're done, we'll run diagnostics to confirm the system is operating at factory specs.
The outdoor unit placement is critical. We ensure proper clearance from walls, vegetation, and air intake vents. The concrete pad must be level to prevent refrigerant pooling. Indoor ductwork connections must be airtight and properly insulated to prevent condensation. Refrigerant lines must be the exact length specified by the manufacturer—too short and you risk overcharging; too long and cooling capacity drops. Every detail matters. For homes that may need heating later or are considering a complete climate control overhaul, we also offer heat pump installation as an all-in-one heating and cooling solution.
Installation Details
Outdoor Unit Positioned
Optimal clearance and drainage ensured.
Refrigerant Lines Routed
Proper insulation and support brackets.
Pressure Tested
Nitrogen tested, no moisture contamination.
Smart Thermostat
Installed and configured per your preference.
Testing, Documentation & Your Education
Once everything is connected, the real test begins. We run the system through a full startup cycle, verify that pressures, amperage, and temperatures match factory specifications, and confirm airflow through all vents. We'll give you a walk-through of your new system—how to use the thermostat, what maintenance you'll need, when to expect filter changes, and how to recognize signs of trouble. You'll receive all documentation: warranties, equipment manuals, service records, and a commissioning report that you can share with your homeowner's insurance.
We also discuss a maintenance schedule that protects your investment. Spring tune-ups before cooling season, fall inspections before heating season, and filter changes every month during heavy use periods. A well-maintained system stays efficient, lasts longer, and breaks down less often. We're here to answer questions about operation, and we schedule your first maintenance appointment before we leave your home.
Before We Leave
Refrigerant Charge Verified
Proper gauges and procedures confirmed.
Airflow Balanced
All vents and zones tested for comfort.
Full Documentation
Manuals, warranty cards, and receipts provided.
First Maintenance Scheduled
Your next appointment set before we leave.
Get a Free AC Installation Estimate
Our team will evaluate your home, explain your options, and provide a transparent quote with no pressure. Ready to move forward?
Service Areas for AC Installation
We proudly install air conditioning systems throughout the Des Moines metro and surrounding communities.
Serving Our Neighbors in & Around:
Not Sure If We Service Your Area?
We're dedicated to serving Greater Des Moines and our surrounding communities. Give us a call if you're not sure if we come to you—chances are we do.
Ankeny, IA
Our team covers north metro Des Moines, serving residential neighborhoods and new construction with fast scheduling and expert technicians. Ankeny's growing housing market means many homes need new cooling systems, and we've built strong relationships with local builders and homeowners.
AC Installation in AnkenyUrbandale, IA
We install AC systems throughout northwest Des Moines and Urbandale, with experience in the area's varied home styles and age profiles. From established neighborhoods to newer developments, we've installed systems in every type of home.
AC Installation in UrbandaleAltoona, IA
Southeast of Des Moines, we service Altoona and the surrounding communities with the same professional standard and attention to detail that defines our work across the metro.
AC Installation in AltoonaGrimes, IA
North of Des Moines, Grimes residents trust Obsidian for new AC installations and system replacements. We understand the area's climate challenges and have built a strong reputation for quality work.
AC Installation in GrimesClive, IA
West of Des Moines, Clive's established neighborhoods and newer subdivisions both benefit from our 15 years of local experience. We've installed hundreds of systems in Clive and know the area's housing stock intimately.
AC Installation in CliveReady to Install Central Air in Your Des Moines Home?
Your comfort matters. A properly sized and professionally installed AC system can mean the difference between a tolerable summer and a genuinely comfortable one. Obsidian Heating and Cooling is ready to walk you through your options, answer every question, and deliver a system you'll trust for years.
Our team serves Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Altoona, Grimes, and Clive with the same commitment to quality and customer care that has made us a trusted name for 15 years. We're veterans, we're Tempstar Elite Dealers, and we're your neighbors. When you call us, you're calling a local business that cares about your home and your family's comfort.
Explore Our Full Range of HVAC Services
Beyond AC installation, we handle the entire comfort spectrum.
Heat Pump Installation
Systems that heat and cool efficiently year-round, ideal for Iowa's dual-season climate. Heat pumps are increasingly popular because they eliminate the need for a separate furnace.
Explore Heat Pump InstallationFurnace Installation & Replacement
Trusted heating systems for reliable winter warmth when temperatures drop below freezing. We install high-efficiency furnaces that save money on heating bills.
Get a New Furnace InstalledMini-Split Installation
Ductless cooling and heating for homes where traditional ducts aren't practical. Perfect for additions, room-by-room comfort control, or homes that don't want ductwork.
See Ductless Mini-Split OptionsAC Repair & Service
When your system needs attention before full replacement, our technicians diagnose and fix problems fast. Don't wait for a complete breakdown.
Schedule AC Repair ServiceIndoor Air Quality Solutions
Upgrade your home's air with filtration, UV purification, and humidity control. Clean air is part of complete comfort.
Improve Your Indoor Air QualityFrequently Asked Questions About AC Installation
Explore All Air Conditioning Services
See everything we handle for air conditioning systems, or jump straight to a related service.
