Factors That Influence New Air Conditioner Cost
As HVAC experts We do our best to not concentrate too much on the cost when it comes to buying new air conditioners. We know that you will save money over the long term by installing a new AC.
How much your new AC costs depends on a variety of variables. Here are some factors to consider:
The size of Your Home
The size of your house is among the most important factors that determine the new air conditioner cost. The larger your home, the more powerful unit (and more expensive) you’ll need to effectively cool it. The smallest units are around one ton and a half, or 18,000 Btu/hour. The largest models could be as large as 6 tons or 72,000 Btu/hour.
The amount of cooling power you require will depend on the layout of your home, the number of rooms and doors as well as the type of insulation, and more. The best method to figure out exactly what size of cooling unit you require is to have professionals conduct a heat load calculation known as a Manual J. The calculation takes into account the area of your home, number of windows and doors, the amount of sunlight it receives throughout the day and the height of your ceilings and much more.
You should also think about whether you would prefer one or multi-stage systems which will impact the total cost. Single-stage models are generally less expensive than multi-stage models, but they offer different levels in efficiency. The type of equipment you choose will also influence the cost. Variable speed machines are more expensive than single-speed machines.
It is also important to test your ductwork prior to installing a new AC to ensure that the size is right. A faulty duct system can result in poor indoor air quality, over use of energy and a variety of other problems.
Over time, the wrong size AC unit will also cause more expensive repair costs. Oversized units will work harder and take longer to cool your home, leading them to wear out faster and require more frequent repairs. On the other hand, a smaller unit will struggle to meet your cooling requirements and won’t be able effectively cool your house during scorching hot days. You may even end up with a unit that isn’t working in any way. This could be extremely expensive and frustrating.
Energy Efficiency Ratio
The greater the energy rating is, the more efficient the new air conditioner will be. This is important because it will allow you to lower your cooling expenses significantly.
The energy efficiency rating is based on the amount of electricity it takes to perform an exact task, which is measured in BTUs per hour or watts. Energy Star and EnergyGuide labels will assist you in determining the efficiency of your appliance. It’s important to note that the size of your home and the temperature fluctuations will influence the appliance’s efficiency rating and is not an exact reflection of the appliance itself.
It’s likely that newer units have a higher SEER than older models, but it’s worth noting that even the highest-rated units don’t operate at their maximum capacity. Due to age and wear older air conditioners with 13 SEER ratings will likely to operate closer to a SEER of 8 due to their age.
A higher energy rating can help you save huge amounts of money over a single year. For instance, if replace your 10-SEER unit with a 14-SEER model you could save about $908 worth of electricity annually.
The quiet operation of energy-efficient units can also be a benefit for many homeowners. The quietest models incorporate advanced compressor technology and blade designs that ensure a peaceful, quiet operation.
Price is certainly an important factor in your choice but you must keep in mind that the cost of the new model will likely be higher than the initial cost of purchase throughout its life. A more expensive unit that is efficient enough to be able to pay for itself over the years is a wise investment for your family. Speak with a reputable professional like our team at Mechanical Service Company to make sure you pick the right unit for your budget and home. We’ll provide you with the best air conditioner that meets your requirements. Schedule an appointment today!
Warranty
A new air conditioner will be working hard to cool your residence for more than a decade, which is why it’s important to choose a model that operates at its maximum capacity and efficiency throughout its lifespan. A reputable HVAC contractor will make sure the new AC you invest in is a great fit for your home and that you will get the highest possible performance from it. This will allow you to reduce the energy bills over time.
When comparing air conditioner models it’s an excellent idea to look at whether they have additional features you may require or want. For instance, certain ACs utilize advanced technology that makes them more quiet and efficient than other models. This is a nice option for homeowners in areas that have a lot of noise pollution or anyone who is looking to reduce their energy consumption.
Other factors that can impact your new air conditioner cost include rebates and financing options. Numerous manufacturers and dealers offer incentives to attract customers and convince them to buy a specific product. Ask your trusted heating and cooling company if they offer any special discounts or offers.
The warranty is also an important factor in determining the new air conditioner cost. Extended warranties cover the equipment for longer periods of time than the standard manufacturer warranty. Getting an extended warranty may appear expensive at first, but it will help ensure you have peace of mind knowing your new air conditioner is protected for the long term.
The cost of installation is included in the total price for the purchase of a new air conditioner. It’s important to hire a qualified, professional technician to perform the installation, as doing it yourself or hiring an unlicensed contractor could invalidate the warranty and cause damage to your new air conditioner. Ask your trusted HVAC company about financing options in case you don’t have the funds to cover the installation upfront. Most of the top HVAC companies offer financing through reputable institutions like Wells Fargo.
Installation
If your old AC unit is aging and your energy bills are rising, it’s time to replace it with a newer model. New air conditioners consume less energy and come with many other advantages.
To figure out how much an AC system will cost, you should first ask for estimates from HVAC contractors. Quotes should contain both the price of the AC as well as installation costs for a comprehensive project. The price of the air conditioner will be contingent on factors like capacity as well as energy efficiency and features. It is also necessary to decide if you would like an uni-speed or variable-speed conditioner. Variable-speed air conditioners have multiple power settings that adjust the energy consumption and performance according to cooling needs. A variable-speed AC is also more expensive than a standard AC with only a single speed blower.
Your comfort consultant will help you determine the right size of air conditioner for your home by determining how many British Thermal Units (BTUs) it will require to cool. An air conditioner that is too small will be unable to provide the cooling requirements of your home while an air cooling system that is too big will consume energy and money.
Once you’ve determined the size of your air conditioner, the next thing to take into consideration 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.
You can save money on your utility bills if select an air conditioner with an SEER that is high. You can also cut down on upfront costs by using rebates offered by mfgs and utility companies in your area.
It is crucial to employ an an experienced contractor to install your new air conditioner. They’ll make sure that the air conditioner is properly sized for your house and installed in a way that is running as efficiently as it can. Plus, they’ll be there to assist you should any issues arise with your new air cooling system. Contact us today if want to save money on your energy bills and enjoy the peace and quiet of an efficient air conditioning system.