AC INSTALLATION SERVICES IN ST. LOUIS

Installation timelines vary depending on system type, building layout, and existing infrastructure. Most standard commercial or multi-unit AC installations in the St. Louis area take between 1 to 3 days. More complex installations—such as those requiring ductwork modifications, core drilling, or system zoning—may take longer. At Imperium, we coordinate closely with property owners to minimize downtime and complete your project efficiently, without sacrificing quality.

If your system is over 10–15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or struggles to maintain comfort and efficiency, it may be time to consider a replacement. Newer systems offer significantly better energy performance, quieter operation, and advanced controls that older units simply can’t match. At Imperium, we evaluate factors like repair history, current SEER rating, and projected operating costs to help you determine if a new installation is the smarter long-term investment for your building.

For St. Louis’ hot and humid summers, the most energy-efficient options include:

• High-SEER central air conditioners

• Variable-speed heat pumps

• Ductless mini-split systems with inverter technology

 These systems adjust output to match real-time cooling demand, reducing energy waste and improving comfort. ENERGY STAR® certified units and systems with SEER2 ratings of 16 or higher offer the best performance. We help you compare systems that not only meet your building’s needs but also lower your utility costs during peak cooling months.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently an air conditioner cools over a season. The higher the SEER, the greater the energy savings. For high-performance buildings, we recommend systems rated SEER 16 or higher for the best balance between cooling power and efficiency.

We partner with premium HVAC manufacturers known for performance, durability, and innovation. Recommendations vary based on project needs, but we typically suggest brands that offer high SEER ratings, quiet operation, and strong warranties.

Yes. Ductless systems offer design flexibility, zoned cooling, and high energy efficiency—without requiring ductwork. They’re great for renovations, additions, or targeted cooling in high-end spaces where preserving aesthetics is important.

Yes, you can! Ductless mini-splits are an excellent retrofit option for buildings without ductwork or for expanding cooling into new or hard-to-reach areas. If your current central AC system isn’t meeting your needs—or you’re looking to improve energy efficiency and zoning—ductless systems offer flexible, cost-effective solutions. We’ll evaluate your property’s layout and cooling demands to determine whether a hybrid or full mini-split upgrade makes sense for your building.

Zoning allows different areas or units in a building to be cooled independently using separate thermostats and dampers or air handlers. It’s especially valuable in multi-unit or mixed-use properties where comfort needs vary by floor, sun exposure, or usage. A well-zoned system improves comfort, reduces energy waste, and extends equipment life by cooling only the areas that need it.

Single-stage systems operate at one speed—full capacity. They’re simple and cost-effective but may lead to temperature swings and more frequent cycling.

Two-stage systems offer low and high settings, allowing them to run longer at lower speeds. This provides quieter operation, improved humidity control, and better energy efficiency—making them ideal for upscale properties focused on comfort and performance.

The right AC unit size depends on your building’s square footage, insulation quality, ceiling height, number of windows, and how the space is used. At Imperium Heating & Cooling, we perform a detailed load calculation to determine the correct system size—measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) or tons of cooling. Oversized systems can lead to short-cycling and wasted energy, while undersized systems struggle to keep up. Our tailored approach ensures optimal comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term performance for your St. Louis property.

Yes. Even the most efficient systems need seasonal maintenance to operate at peak performance. We offer maintenance plans that include inspections, filter changes, and performance tuning—ensuring your system runs efficiently and reliably year after year.ion