Quick answer: Replace a Chandler AC or heat pump when it is 15 or more years old, uses R-22 refrigerant, or needs a compressor. Size it with a load calculation, not a rule of thumb, and expect a City of Chandler permit for most AC and heat pump replacements.
Most Chandler homes were built between the mid-1980s and mid-2000s, and many are now on their second system. If yours is 15 or more years old, uses R-22 refrigerant, or needs a compressor, replacement usually makes more sense than repair. This page explains how we approach it.
Sizing for Chandler, not a rule of thumb
“One ton per 500 square feet” is a guess. We run a load calculation that accounts for Chandler’s design temperatures, your windows and which way they face, attic insulation, ceiling height and duct location. An oversized system short-cycles and leaves humidity behind during monsoon season. An undersized one runs all afternoon and still falls behind when it is 110°F.
Equipment choices
- Split system (AC + furnace or air handler): common in two-story Chandler homes with the indoor unit in the attic or a closet.
- Package unit: everything in one cabinet, usually on the roof. Replacing it can require a crane.
- Heat pump: cools and heats with electricity. Well suited to Chandler’s mild winters; January lows average 41°F.
- Single-stage, two-stage or variable speed: multi-stage systems run longer at lower power, which helps even out two-story homes.
Permits and inspections
Chandler’s Development Services department handles building permits from 215 E. Buffalo St. The city’s Homeowner’s Building Permit Manual (revised April 2026) exempts like-for-like swaps of water heaters, furnaces and evaporative coolers, but it does not list air conditioners or heat pumps as exempt. If you are unsure whether your job needs a permit, the city’s Plan Reviewer of the Day takes questions at 480-782-3078. We pull the permit when one is required, and we tell you before work starts.
Utility rebates
Chandler is split between SRP and APS. Each utility sets its own rebate rules for new cooling equipment, and those rules change. We check the current program for your utility at the time of your quote, and SRP customers can also look at its duct-repair rebate (up to $400 listed on SRP’s rebate page) if the ductwork needs attention.
What a complete quote should list
- Brand, model numbers and efficiency rating of each piece of equipment.
- Whether the line set, drain, disconnect, pad or curb are being replaced.
- Permit and inspection.
- Crane cost for roof units.
- Labor and equipment warranty terms, in writing.
- Your Arizona Registrar of Contractors license number.
Common questions
Do I need a permit to replace an AC in Chandler?
The city's permit manual exempts like-for-like furnace and water heater swaps but does not list AC or heat pump replacement as exempt. Ask the Plan Reviewer of the Day at 480-782-3078 if unsure.
What size AC does my Chandler home need?
It depends on windows, orientation, insulation and ducts. A load calculation gives the answer; square footage alone does not.
What should a replacement quote include?
Model numbers, efficiency ratings, line set and drain work, permit, crane cost for roof units, warranty terms and the contractor's Arizona license number.
Get a written replacement quote. Call 480-719-8109 — a real person in the East Valley answers.