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How Much Does a New Air Conditioning Unit Cost?
No matter what time of the year it is in the south, it's always time to keep your air conditioner in mind. If your air conditioner is over 10 years old, it might be time for a replacement. How much does a new air conditioning unit cost? That depends on the size of the AC unit and the brand.
If you recently read our post about signs you might need AC repair, then you might have discovered a replacement is a better choice for you. If so, you'll appreciate the info in this blog post. Here we'll provide an overview of how much a new air conditioner costs. We will also discuss some factors that can affect the price, such as installation costs and energy efficiency ratings.
How Much Is a New Air Conditioning Unit?
The average cost of a new air conditioner is $6000. The price can go up to $12000 for a top-of-the-line unit. The size of the unit will affect the price, as well as the features and efficiency rating.
In some cases, additional work is required, such as electrical or plumbing upgrades, asbestos removal, or mold testing.
In recent years, air conditioners have become more energy efficient. This is due to the implementation of new technologies and the use of more environmentally friendly refrigerants. As a result, the cost of a new air conditioner has decreased.
Costs Associated With New Air Conditioning Unit
In addition to the cost of the unit itself, there are other air conditioner installation costs associated with a new air conditioner.
These include:
- Electrical costs
- Ductwork repair
- New zones and controls
- Plumbing costs
- Existing AC unit removal
- Cost of any necessary permits
Electrical Work Costs
A dedicated electrical and mechanical circuit is necessary to power a central air conditioning system.
If your home does not have the proper wiring for a new air conditioner, you will need to have an electrician do some work. This can range from running a new circuit to upgrading your entire electrical system.
Ductwork Repair
Your ductwork will also need to be inspected and possibly repaired before installing a new air conditioner. This is because the ductwork is what carries the cool air from the unit to your home.
If there are any leaks or holes in the ductwork, it will reduce the efficiency of the unit and cause your energy bills to increase.
New Zones and Controls
If you have a multi-zone home, you will need to install new zones and controls. This will allow you to control the temperature in each zone independently.
Plumbing Costs
If your home does not have the proper plumbing for a new air conditioner, you will need to have a plumber do some work.
A central air unit needs a drain line to remove the condensation from the unit. If your home does not have one, a plumber can install one for you.
Existing AC Unit Removal
If you have an existing air conditioner, it will need to be removed before installing a new one. This is usually included in the installation cost but can vary depending on the company.
Cost of Any Necessary Permits
Depending on your area, you may need to get a permit to install a new air conditioner. The cost of the permit will be added to the total cost of the project.
Check with your local code enforcement office for these requirements.
Factors That Affect the Cost to Install a New Air Conditioning System
There are several factors that can affect the cost to install a new air conditioning system.
These include:
- The size of the unit
- The type of unit
- The features of the unit
- The efficiency rating of the unit
- Installation costs
- Brand
The Size Of the Unit
The most important factor in determining the cost of a new air conditioner is its size. The bigger the unit, the more it will cost.
A unit that is too small for the space it is cooling will have to work harder and will use more energy, resulting in higher utility bills.
Conversely, a unit that is too large for the space will cool the space too quickly, causing the compressor to cycle on and off more frequently, which can shorten the unit's lifespan.
The Type of Unit
The type of air conditioner you choose will also affect the cost. The most common types are window, portable, central AC units, and ductless mini-splits.
Window units are the least expensive but are also the least efficient. Portable units are more expensive but are also more efficient. Central AC units and ductless mini-splits are the most expensive but are also the most efficient.
The most common types of air conditioners and their prices are:
- Window AC units: $100-$700
- Portable air conditioner: $250-$1000
- Central air conditioning unit: $4000-$8000
- Ductless mini-split air conditioners: $1000-$8000
The Features of the Unit
The features of the air conditioner you choose will also affect the cost. The most common features include:
- Timers
- Programmable thermostats
- Remote controlsEnergy-saving features
- Advanced cooling system
The more features the unit has, the more it will cost.
The Efficiency Rating of the Unit
The efficiency rating of an air conditioner is measured by its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit and the lower your utility bills.
The typical SEER rating for air conditioners is anywhere between 14 to 24.
The most efficient units use less energy to cool the same amount of space as a less efficient unit, so they can save money over time on energy costs, even though they may have a higher initial air conditioner cost.
When choosing a new air conditioner, it is important to consider the initial cost and the long-term costs of operating the unit.
Installation Costs
The installation costs of a new AC unit will vary depending on your chosen unit.
Window units can be installed by the homeowner, while portable units must be installed by a professional.
Central air conditioning units and ductless mini-splits must be installed by a professional as well. The installation cost for these units can range from $500 to $3000.
Since HVAC contractors costs can make a big difference in the total cost of a new air conditioner, it's important to get several estimates before choosing a contractor.
Air Conditioner Brand
The brand of air conditioning system you choose will also affect the AC unit cost.
There are many different brands of heating and cooling systems on the market, and they all have different price points. You should read online reviews and compare prices before making your decision.
Some of the most popular brands for air conditioning systems include:
- Carrier
- Trane
- Lennox
- Rheem
- Ruud
- Goodman
How to Get the Best Price On a New AC Unit?
There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a new air conditioning unit in order to get the best price.
- Be sure to get multiple estimates from different contractors. Shop around and compare prices from different brands.
- Choose an energy-efficient AC unit with a high SEER rating.
- Don't forget to factor in any rebates or tax credits you may be eligible for.
- HVAC professionals are less busy in the spring and fall, so you may be able to get a better deal if you schedule your installation during those times.
- Keep an eye on seasonal discounts and clearance sales on new AC units.
Questions to Ask About Central AC Unit Cost
Now that you know some of the factors that affect the cost of a new air conditioner, here are some questions to ask when getting central AC unit prices:
- What is the SEER rating of the unit?
- What size AC unit do I need for my home?
- How much will it cost to install the AC unit?
- Is there a warranty on the AC unit?
- What is the customer satisfaction rating of the HVAC contractor?
- Are there any rebates or tax credits available for this AC unit?
- How long will it take to install the AC unit?
- What are the operating costs of the AC unit?
- Is a central air system or ductless split system the best option for my situation?
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are a lot of factors that go into the cost of a new air conditioner. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a local HVAC company.
They will be able to give you a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.
We would be happy to help you choose the best AC unit for your home and budget. Just give Creditable Heating and Air today!
GET A FREE AIR CONDITIONING QUOTE, REACH OUT TODAY!
OUR SERVICE AREAS IN BALDWIN COUNTY, AL
Creditable Heating and Air provides quality air conditioning repair and HVAC services across the broader Baldwin County area, including but not limited to:
If you'd like a complimentary quote or inspection, or have questions, reach out today using our form or giving us a call!
It's impossible to live in the south without some kind of air conditioning, and Creditable Heating and Air is always ready to respond swiftly to any report that your AC is working less than optimally. Your comfort is our number one priority.
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