Investing in an AC unit requires some planning and budgeting. Ideally, homeowners should work with All Temp Air Conditioning & Refrigeration to choose the right capacity for their home.
Some companies offer comprehensive home improvement services, such as plumbing, electrical, and insulation. ARS, for example, offers “on my way” text notifications and uniformed technicians.
Homeowners can save money by hiring a professional to install their new AC unit. However, the installation cost varies by the AC unit type and home size. Moreover, the AC system needs to be properly sized for optimum efficiency. A small unit won’t cool a large house; a larger one will drive up energy bills over time. A reputable HVAC technician can assess the air conditioner for efficiency and recommend the right size unit for a home.
The average central AC unit costs between $4,000 and $8,500, with the cost influenced by the size of the home and the need to update ductwork. A house with a ductless system typically has a lower total AC installation cost. A professional can also install a packaged AC system, including a furnace and an AC unit, for an average of $9,200 to $10,800.
Other factors that affect AC installation costs include the home’s layout and the number of rooms that need to be cooled. If a homeowner adds a bedroom, they may need to upgrade their cooling system to accommodate the additional square footage. Additionally, homeowners who want to add a garage apartment or knock down walls should consider the impact on their cooling systems.
Many localities require permits for AC installation projects, which can add to the project’s overall cost. Hiring a professional will eliminate the need for homeowners to obtain a license themselves. Hiring an experienced HVAC contractor is also wise, as it will ensure that the work is done correctly and safely.
The most common types of AC units include split-system and packaged AC systems. A split-system AC unit has an outdoor and indoor cabinet, while a packaged system is installed in a cabinet outside the home or on the roof. A packaged system can be a good option for older homes that don’t have ductwork or for those who don’t want to invest in ductwork renovations. It’s important to remember that the amount of ductwork required will affect the total cost of an AC system and the installation process and timeline.
Air conditioning used to be considered a luxury, but it’s now essential for many homes. It improves indoor comfort, boosts productivity and energy levels, and enhances home values. In addition, it helps reduce the impact on the environment. Air conditioning systems are available in various sizes to suit any size home. However, larger homes require more efficient AC units.
One way to improve your home’s energy efficiency is to replace older AC units with newer models. Older units often need to catch up with technological advancements and can save energy by overcooling the house. More recent units can operate at lower speeds and offer more energy-efficient features.
Another way to increase energy efficiency is to upgrade your insulation. That can help your AC system run more efficiently by reducing heat transfer between the inside and outside of your home. In addition, it can save you money by lowering your electric bill.
The energy efficiency of an AC system is measured using the seasonal energy-efficiency rating (SEER). The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit. A new AC with a high SEER will cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run. Your HVAC professional can recommend the right SEER unit for your home.
Some states require that new residential air conditioners have a minimum SEER of 13. The regulations will be tightened in 2023 to a standard of 14. You can also get rebates and incentives for converting to an energy-efficient AC unit.
Depending on your local laws, you may need a window AC unit permit. If you live in an apartment or condominium, check with the building management to see if a license is required. If it is, make sure that the unit is installed properly. For example, the team should not block fire escapes or other exits.
The installation involves several steps, including adding refrigerant and assembling the unit. The refrigerant must be properly charged to ensure the system operates properly. If the refrigerant is too low, the system won’t be able to cool your house. It’s also important to check the refrigerant level periodically.
A new AC system is a substantial investment in your comfort and energy but also increases your home value. A reputable HVAC company will provide a comprehensive quote that includes everything from equipment to installation costs. It may even have a maintenance plan. Depending on your state, you may need to get a permit for the air conditioning unit itself and any housing or platforms you need to build to install it.
The first step in preparing for an AC installation is to determine the size of your house and how much cooling power you need. Unlike previous generations of ACs, today’s systems are far more efficient and quieter. They use less electricity than older models and can significantly reduce energy costs.
It’s also important to decide what type of AC you want. There are two types: traditional split systems and packaged units. The former involves an outdoor unit and an indoor cabinet, while the latter sits in a box either outside or on the roof of your house. Choosing the right model depends on your budget and lifestyle.
During the initial visit, an estimator will assess your current AC system to collect important information about your property. They will also measure the area of the home where you plan to install your new AC. That will help them provide a more accurate estimate.
If you want to save money, consider installing a small window AC unit instead of a whole-house system. However, buy a unit that can cool your entire space. Also, ensure you don’t block the team with objects like plants or TV antennas and that the window frame is in good condition.
You should also know that different types of homes require other ACs. For instance, if your home has great insulation and few west-facing windows, you can get away with a smaller unit. However, if you live in a large Craftsman or Victorian-style house, you’ll need a larger AC to distribute air evenly throughout your home. Also, prioritize a high SEER rating, reducing your energy bills.
A warranty from an HVAC company can be a great way to keep your system running properly for years. Many companies offer a 10-year labor warranty on new installations. The contract may cover the entire unit or just parts of it. It may also include maintenance or repair service. It is important to read the warranty carefully and understand its terms. Contact the company for more information if you need help understanding the contract.
Home warranties are not the same as homeowners’ insurance and are designed to cover wear-related damage. If your air conditioning breaks down because of a power surge or other damage caused by outside forces, you must still file a claim with your homeowners’ insurance. However, home warranty plans are usually less expensive than paying for a replacement.
The cost of a home warranty varies depending on the company and the package you choose. Some plans offer coverage for appliances, while others only cover systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Some providers also offer add-ons that can increase the price of the plan.
Before you sign up for a home warranty, be sure to read the fine print. Some companies need to allow you to select your contractor for repair services, which can lead to a poor quality of work. Moreover, the company may only accept your claim for reasons covered in their contract.
Some of the most common problems with HVAC systems are caused by improper installation or a lack of regular maintenance. Improper installation can void your manufacturer’s warranty, and using equipment not from the original manufacturer can also cancel your limited warranty. You should also maintain receipts and other records of maintenance to keep your contract valid.
A home warranty can also help you with the cost of a new air conditioner, as it covers repair or replacement costs for certain items considered normal wear and tear. That contrasts homeowners’ insurance, which only covers damage caused by an accident or natural disaster.