Don’t Get Ripped Off: A Guide To The cost Of Air Conditioning Installation
A Guide To The Cost Of Air Conditioning Installation
Results from a 2009 survey indicate that 87% of households in the US have installed air conditioning. That translates into 100 million homes!
The national average cost for installation of central air conditioning is approximately $7,000. But it can be as low as $2,500. It depends on several factors.
If you’re looking for air conditioning installation, it’s important to do your research. You want an efficient, competitively-priced unit with professional installation.
Read on to learn more about air conditioning installation.
Time for an Air Conditioning Installation?
If it’s time for an air conditioning installation for your home, there are several things you need to know before you call a professional.
Home Size
The first thing you’ll need to determine is how much cooling power is necessary for your situation. A professional can help you with this, but it’s good to have a rough estimate.
Do you need a window-only AC unit or an entire HVAC system? Most people living in a home need central air.
The amount of heat removed from your home in one hour (measured in British Thermal Units (BTU)) is considered a ton.
You’ll need approximately one ton of cooling for every 500-600 square feet. A professional will factor in other environmental issues, such as the area in which you live, to determine your specific needs.
Environmental issues can make a difference in your HVAC needs. A 2,500 square foot home in a warm climate may only need a 75,000-BTU unit. The same home in a very cold climate may need a 150,000-BTU unit.
SEER and EER Ratings
These ratings refer to the seasonal energy efficiency ratio and the energy efficiency ratio.
If you live in the Southeastern US, the most important of these two ratings is the SEER. This is because the South experiences dramatic temperature changes, sometimes within a single day.
It’s important to get an air conditioning installation that will take into account the needs of your specific area. You want the smallest most efficient AC unit that costs the least to run. It needs to be large enough, however, to handle the job.
Comparison Shopping
When doing price comparisons of air conditioning units, make sure you’re comparing the exact same specifications from unit to unit. Some HVAC units include extras such as electronic air cleaners and central humidifiers.
Reliable Technician
Make sure you ask around and read reviews before you hire a technician. It’s best to hire a professional from a reputable company.
A professional may cost a little more up front, but it will save you a lot of hassle and expense down the road from an improperly installed system.
Existing System
If you already have an HVAC system, then the ductwork will be in place, and the installation will be easier and cheaper.
If you’re getting a central air conditioning installation done for the first time in an older home, you may need to have the ductwork installed.
If you’re installing new ductwork, you’ll want to look into an entire HVAC system. That means you’ll be installing a new heater as well. This is why an HVAC system can cost upwards of $7,000.
Ready for Air Conditioning?
If you’re ready to talk to a professional, check out our Air Conditioning services. We’d be happy to help you find the best unit for your situation!
