Factors That Influence New Air Conditioner Cost
HVAC experts try to avoid focusing too much on the price of new air conditioners. We know that a new AC unit can save you money over time through energy savings alone.
The cost of your new AC is contingent on a variety of factors. Here are a few points to consider:
Your Home’s Size
The size of your house is among the most important factors that determines the cost of purchasing a new air conditioner. The larger your home, the more powerful unit (and more expensive) you’ll require to effectively cool it. The smallest units begin at a ton and a half in size or 18,000 Btu per hour, while the largest may be 6 tons or 72,000 Btu per hour.
The amount of cooling power you need depends on the layout of your home and the number of rooms and doors, the type and quality of insulation, and many more. The best method to determine exactly what size unit you need is to hire professionals perform a heat load calculation referred to as a Manual J. The calculation takes into account your home’s size, number of windows and doors, the amount and duration of sunlight as well as the height of your ceilings, and more.
You will also need to decide if you want a single or multi-stage system, which can affect the overall price. Single-stage units are generally less expensive than multi-stage models, however they have different levels of efficiency. The type of equipment you choose will also impact the cost. Variable speed machines are more expensive than single-speed machines.
It is also essential to test your ductwork before installing a new AC to ensure that the size is correct. A defective duct system can result in poor indoor air quality, high use of energy and a variety of other problems.
A faulty size AC unit can result in higher repair costs over time. An over-sized unit will strain and be more able to keep your house cool, which will cause it to wear down more quickly and require repairs more often. In contrast, a small unit will struggle to meet your cooling needs and won’t be able to effectively cool your house on scorching hot days. You could even end up with a non-functional unit. This can be frustrating and expensive.
Energy Efficiency Ratio
The higher the energy efficiency rating is, the more efficient your new air conditioner will be. This is an important factor since you’ll be able reduce your cooling costs significantly.
The energy efficiency rating is based on the amount of electricity it takes to perform the task at hand, measured in BTUs per hour or watts. EnergyGuide and EnergyStar labels can help you evaluate the efficiency of your appliance. The size of your house and temperature fluctuations can affect the appliance’s rating. It’s not always an indication of the unit itself.
You’ll likely notice that newer units have higher SEER than older models, but it’s worth noting that even the top-rated units don’t operate at their maximum capacity. Due to wear and age, older air conditioners with a SEER rating of 13 are likely to operate more closely to a SEER rating of 8 due to their age.
A higher energy rating can help you save huge amounts of money over one year. For example, if you upgrade your 10-SEER model to an 14-SEER model and you save $908 in electricity costs annually.
Energy-efficient units also operate quietly, which is a benefit for many homeowners. The quietest models use innovative compressors and fan designs to ensure comfortable, soundless operation.
While cost will certainly play a role in your decision-making process, you must keep in mind that you’ll pay more than just the initial purchase cost of the new device throughout its life. A unit that is expensive but efficient enough to pay for itself over time is a good investment for your family. Speak with a reputable expert such as our team at Mechanical Service Company to make sure you pick the right model for your budget and home. We’ll be able provide you with the best air conditioner to meet your needs. Set up an appointment now!
Warranty
A new air conditioner will be working hard to cool your residence for over a decade, which is why it’s so important to choose one that performs at the highest performance and efficiency throughout its lifespan. A reliable HVAC contractor can ensure that the new AC you purchase is the right fit for your home, and will give you the best performance. This will help reduce the energy bills.
It is essential to compare air conditioner models and see whether there are additional features that you might like or require. For instance, some ACs use advanced technology which makes them quieter and efficient than others. This is a desirable option for homeowners in areas that have a lot of noise pollution, or for anyone who wants to lower their energy consumption.
Other elements that could affect your new air conditioner cost include rebates and financing options. Many dealers and manufacturers offer incentives to attract buyers and encourage them to purchase a specific product. Ask your trusted heating and air conditioning company if they offer any special offers or discounts.
The warranty is also an important factor in determining the new air conditioner cost. A standard manufacturer warranty covers the equipment for a certain amount of time, while extended warranties provide coverage for a longer period. A longer warranty may seem expensive, but you will feel secure knowing that your new air conditioner will be covered for a long period of time.
The cost of installation will be included in the total cost for a new air conditioner. You should employ an experienced technician to install your air conditioner. If you do it yourself, or hiring a contractor who is not licensed could void your warranty and damage your new unit. If you don’t have enough funds saved to cover the installation upfront, talk to your trusted heating and cooling provider about financing options. Most HVAC firms offer financing through trusted institutions like Wells Fargo.
Installation
If your old AC unit is aging and your energy bills are increasing, it’s the right time to replace it with a newer model. New air conditioners are more efficient in energy use and offer other benefits.
The first step in finding out how much an AC system will cost is to obtain estimates from HVAC contractors. The quotes should contain the cost of the AC unit as well as the installation cost for a total cost. The price of the air conditioner will depend on factors like capacity, energy efficiency, and features. In addition, you will need to decide whether you prefer a single-speed or variable-speed air conditioner. Variable-speed air conditioners come with a variety of power settings that can alter the energy consumption and performance according to cooling needs. A variable-speed AC is also more expensive than the standard AC with one speed blower.
Your comfort expert will assist you in determining the appropriate size of air conditioner for your home by determining how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) it requires to cool. An air conditioner that is too small will be unable to meet your home’s cooling needs, while an air conditioner that is too large will consume energy and money.
The SEER rating is the next factor to think about after you’ve decided on the size. SEER ratings indicate how efficient an air conditioner is. The SEER rating reflects how efficient an air conditioner is.
You can save money on your utility bills if choose an air conditioner with an SEER that is high. You can also save on upfront costs by availing rebates from the mfgs and utilities companies in your region.
It is essential to hire an an experienced contractor to install your new air conditioner. They’ll ensure that the air conditioner is sized to your home and that it is installed correctly to ensure it operates at its best. They’ll also be there to assist you in the event that your air conditioner has any problems. Contact us today if want to reduce your energy costs while enjoying the peace and tranquility that comes with an efficient air conditioning system.