When the Oklahoma heat sets in, the last thing you want is an air conditioner that runs inefficiently and drives your energy bills through the roof. Many homeowners still rely on older single stage systems that were installed 15 to 25 years ago. The big question is: will a single stage AC system cost more this summer compared to upgrading to a modern variable speed unit?

Let’s break it down using the SEER Energy Savings Calculator and real numbers.

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What Is SEER and Why Does It Matter?

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures how efficiently your AC system uses electricity to cool your home. The higher the SEER rating, the less energy your system consumes.

• Older systems, 15–25 years old, often operate at 10 SEER or lower because efficiency drops with age.
• New systems start at 14 SEER and can range up to 22 SEER and higher.

Regular maintenance helps preserve efficiency, but eventually, age and wear mean higher energy costs.

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The Single Stage vs. Variable Speed Difference

Most older systems are single stage units. They run at full blast every time they turn on, regardless of your cooling needs. This leads to:

• Higher electricity usage
• Temperature swings throughout the house
• Less effective humidity control

Modern variable speed systems adjust their output to match demand. That means:

• Consistent, even cooling
• Lower monthly energy bills
• Better humidity removal (a big deal in Oklahoma summers)

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Energy Cost Comparison: 4-Ton System in Oklahoma

Using an average 4-ton system (sized for a 1,600 sq. ft. home in our climate zone), here’s what the numbers look like:

Single Stage 14 SEER System

• Annual operating cost: $629
• Lifetime (15 years) savings compared to 10 SEER: $4,000

Variable Speed 18 SEER System

• Annual operating cost: $489
• Lifetime (15 years) savings compared to 10 SEER: $6,490

Ultra-Premium 22 SEER+ System

• Annual operating cost: $400
• Lifetime (15 years) savings compared to 10 SEER: $7,800+

Bottom line: yes, a single stage system will cost you more to run every summer. Upgrading to a variable speed system can save you hundreds per year on energy bills while improving comfort.

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Should You Replace Your AC System Now?

The right choice depends on your situation:

• Selling soon? A basic single stage replacement might make sense. You’ll meet buyer expectations and may recover the cost in your home sale.
• Staying long term? Investing in a variable speed system is the smarter move. You’ll benefit from lower energy bills, more consistent comfort, and humidity control.

Pairing a high-efficiency system with a 10-year labor warranty ensures peace of mind–your system is covered for repairs for the next decade.

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Key Takeaway

A single stage system may be cheaper upfront, but over the lifetime of your AC, it will cost you more in utilities and repairs. If you plan to stay in your home, upgrading to a variable speed system is the best investment for both savings and comfort.

No need to sweat it this summer. Call Yarbrough & Sons Heating, Cooling & Plumbing at (405) 485-3470 for expert advice on the right system for your home.

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HVAC Average Price Range by Tonnage

• 1.5 Ton: $8,000 – $16,000
• 2 Ton: $8,000 – $16,000
• 2.5 Ton: $8,500 – $18,000
• 3 Ton: $9,000 – $18,500
• 3.5 Ton: $9,500 – $21,000
• 4 Ton: $10,500 – $21,500
• 5 Ton: $11,500 – $23,000

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💸 Financing options available

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About Yarbrough & Sons Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Serving Oklahoma City and surrounding areas since 1988, we provide expert HVAC maintenance, repair, and replacement services with a commitment to quality and community care.

Locations:

• 122 S Main Ave, Blanchard, OK 73010
• 3601 S Broadway #300, Edmond, OK 73013

📞 (405) 485-3470 | 🌐 yarbroughandsons.com