Factors That Influence New Air Conditioner Cost
HVAC experts are careful not to focus too much on the price of new air conditioners. We know that you’ll save money in the long run by installing a brand new AC.
The cost of your new AC will depend on a variety of factors. Here are a few things to think about:
Size of Your Home
The size of your house is one of the main factors that affects the new air conditioner cost. The bigger your home is, the more powerful (and costlier) you will need to properly cool it. The smallest units can start at a ton and a half or 18,000 Btu per hour, while the largest could be as large as 6 tons or 72,000 Btu per hour.
The amount of cooling power you require will depend on the layout of your home, the number of doors and rooms and the type of insulation you choose and more. The best way to figure out exactly what size of cooling unit you require is to have professionals conduct the heat load calculation, also known as the Manual J. The calculation takes into account the area of your home, number of doors and windows and the amount of sun it receives throughout the day, the ceiling’s height and much more.
You should also decide if you want a single or multi-stage system that will affect the overall price. Single-stage units typically cost less than multi-stage ones, however they will have different levels of efficiency. The kind of equipment you pick will also impact the cost. Variable speed machines are more expensive than single-speed machines.
It is also crucial to test the ductwork prior installing a new HVAC system to ensure that the dimension is right. A damaged ductwork system could cause poor indoor air quality and excessive energy consumption, among other problems.
In time, a improper size AC unit can result in greater repair costs. An oversized unit will overwork and be more able to keep your house cool, which can cause it to wear down more quickly and need repairs more often. In contrast, a small unit will struggle to meet your cooling requirements and won’t be able to effectively cool your house during scorching hot days. You may even end with a system that doesn’t function at all. This can be extremely expensive and frustrating.
Energy Efficiency Ratio
The higher the energy efficiency rating, the more efficient your new air conditioner will be. This is an important factor because it will allow you to reduce your cooling costs significantly.
The energy efficiency rating is determined by the amount of power required to complete a specific task, measured in BTUs per hour or watts. EnergyGuide and EnergyStar labels can help you determine the efficiency of your unit. The size of your house and temperature fluctuations will influence the appliance’s rating. It is not necessarily a reflection of the appliance itself.
You’ll likely notice that newer units have a higher SEER than older ones, but it’s worth noting that even the most highly-rated units aren’t operating at their maximum capacity. Due to age and wear, older air conditioners with a SEER rating of 13 are likely to be operating closer to a SEER of 8 due to their age.
A higher energy efficiency rating could save you a substantial amount of money over the period of a year. For example, if you upgrade your 10-SEER model to a 14-SEER model and you save $908 in electricity costs each year.
The quiet operation of energy efficient units can also be a benefit for many homeowners. The quietest models incorporate modern compressor technology and blade designs that ensure a quiet, comfortable operation.
Price is definitely an element in your decision, but you should also be aware that the cost of your new unit will likely surpass the initial price of purchase over the course of its lifespan. A model that is costly but effective enough to pay for itself over time is a wise investment for your family. Consult a professional, like our team at Mechanical Service Company, to make sure you pick the best unit that fits your budget and your home. We’ll be able match you with the perfect air conditioner to suit your requirements. Make an appointment today!
Warranty
It is essential to select an air conditioner that will perform at its best throughout the entire lifespan of the unit. A reliable HVAC contractor will ensure that the new AC you purchase is a good one for your home, and will give you the most efficient performance. This will help reduce your energy costs.
It is important to evaluate air conditioner models and see whether there are any additional features you may require or want. For example, some ACs utilize advanced technology which makes them quieter and efficient than others. This is a great option for homeowners in areas that are crowded with lots of noise pollution, or for anyone who is looking to reduce their energy bills.
Other elements that could affect the price of your new air conditioner include rebates and financing options. Many manufacturers and dealers provide incentives to encourage consumers to purchase a specific product. If you are interested in a specific brand, talk to your trusted heating and cooling company about special discounts or other promotions that might be available.
The warranty is also an important factor in determining the new air conditioner’s price. Extended warranties cover the equipment for longer periods of time than the standard manufacturer warranty. A longer warranty may seem expensive, but you’ll have peace of mind that your new air conditioner will be protected for a longer period of time.
Your total new air conditioner cost will also include the price of installation. You should hire an experienced technician to install your air conditioner. Doing it yourself or hiring a contractor who is not licensed may void your warranty and cause damage to your new unit. If you don’t have enough money saved to cover the installation upfront, ask your trusted heating and cooling company about financing options. Most HVAC companies offer financing via trusted institutions like Wells Fargo.
Installation
If your old AC unit is getting old and your energy costs are increasing, it’s the right time to consider replacing it with a more modern model. Newer air conditioners are more efficient in energy use and offer additional benefits.
To figure out how much an AC system will cost, you should first seek out quotes from HVAC contractors. The quotes should contain the cost of the air conditioner as well as the installation cost to determine the total cost. The cost of the air conditioner will be contingent on factors like capacity energy efficiency, capacity, and other features. Additionally, you’ll need to decide whether you want a variable-speed or single-speed air conditioner. Variable-speed air conditioners come with a variety of power settings that adjust energy usage and performance according to cooling needs. The cost of a variable speed AC will also be higher than an air conditioner that has a single speed blower.
Your comfort consultant will help you determine the appropriate size of air conditioner for your home by determining the number of British Thermal Units (BTUs) it needs to cool. A smaller air conditioner will not be able to meet the cooling needs of your home, while a large air conditioner is a waste of energy and money.
After you’ve decided on the size of your air conditioner, the next thing to be aware of is the SEER rating. SEER ratings indicate how efficient the air conditioner is. The more efficient the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit is.
Selecting an air conditioner that has an SEER rating that is high will save you on utility bills over time. You can also save money on upfront costs by availing rebates from mfgs and utilities companies in your area.
If you’re in the market for an air conditioner replacement it is essential to choose a reputable contractor to install it. They will ensure that your air conditioner is sized correctly for your home and installed correctly so that it operates as efficiently as it can. They’ll also be there for you if any problems arise with your new air conditioner. So, if you’re eager to save money on your energy bills and enjoy the peace and quiet of an efficient air conditioner, get in touch with us today!
