Before investing in a new air central air condition system, the first question you may be wondering is, “How much will it cost?” If you search online for a price, you’ll see quite a wide range of numbers based on national averages. If you don’t find that range helpful, we don’t blame you. The cost of a new central air conditioning can vary based on your location, home, and needs, which is why getting an estimate from a reputable installer is important.
A few factors that can influence the final price are the equipment brand, size of the unit, energy-efficient rating, warranty, and installation quality.
Factors That Impact The Cost of Installing a Central AC System
Brand of equipment: You may not be familiar with air conditioning system manufacturers, but a handful of them are out there. Like any type of product, there are high-quality, trusted brands and others with a lower price tag at the sacrifice of performance and reliability. At DeZiel Heating & AC, Inc., we thoroughly research the brands and equipment we carry to offer our customers the best quality and value.
Size of the air conditioning system: The size of the AC unit is one of the most important decisions to make – both for pricing and long-term comfort. If the unit is too small, it won’t have enough power to cool your home properly. But if it’s too big, it will hurt the system’s efficiency and impact your monthly utility bills. Air conditioning capacity can be measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) or tonnage. Either way, the larger the unit, the more expensive it will likely be. This is where an experienced HVAC technician can calculate the appropriate size, so you get the biggest bang (and cooling power) for your buck.
Energy efficiency: One of the first things that customers look for in a new air conditioning system is high energy efficiency. The good news is that nearly any new unit today is more advanced in this department than ACs from 15-20 years ago. The SEER rating measures the energy efficiency of air conditioning. Just keep in mind that the higher the energy efficiency, the more expensive the system will be – but it will also save you money on monthly energy bills. So you have to factor both sides into your decision. Length and terms of the warranty.
Pro tip: Don’t overlook the value of the manufacturer’s warranty, which can range from 2 to 10 years, depending on the brand and model. You may pay a little more upfront for an AC with a longer warranty, but it can pay off in the long run by saving you hundreds (if not thousands) in unexpected repair costs. Installer experience and credentials: It’s great to have a “guy” to help with certain home projects, but installing an air conditioning system isn’t one of them. Using an experienced and reputable HVAC company ensures that the equipment is installed and calibrated correctly. Whether you get referrals from family or read up on online reviews, hiring a quality company is worth the investment.
What Are The Signs That You Need a New Air Conditioning System?
If your air conditioner is more than 10-15 years old, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Keep an eye out for these signs that indicate you need a new AC system: Your home isn’t cooling as it used to If you’re cranking up the AC and it’s still not getting as cool as you’d like, then it might be time for a new system. And if your energy bills have been steadily climbing despite using the same settings, that can also signal an issue with your air conditioner.
Your AC is making strange Noises: A little noise is normal, but if you start to hear loud banging or grinding noises coming from your AC, there might be a serious issue that needs to be addressed. This could mean it’s time for repairs – or possibly even a new air conditioning system. Foul smells from the vents If you start to smell a musty odor coming from your AC, that could be an indication of mold in the system. This is dangerous and should be addressed as soon as possible. It might mean that it’s time for repairs – or a new air conditioner altogether.
Higher energy bills: When your air conditioner starts to work harder, it needs to consume more energy. If you’re seeing your utility bills go up but not using any more electricity than usual, that could signal an issue with your AC system. As AC units age, they become less efficient, leading to higher energy bills. With newer more energy-efficient systems, you can start to see lower monthly bills. Having to repair your AC more often It’s normal for any residential appliance to need repairs once in a while. But if it seems like you’re having to call an HVAC technician every few months, then it could be time for a new system. If the cost of repairs is more than half the price of a new unit, it’s probably time to invest in something new.
There’s a build-up of moisture around your AC system: If you find water pooling around your AC, that’s a sign of a bigger issue and can even put you and your family’s health at risk. This is usually caused by a refrigerant leak and should be addressed immediately. In this case, it might mean repairs – or if the system is too old, it might be time for a replacement. Keep in mind that every AC system is different and there are many factors to consider when deciding if it’s time for a replacement or repair. An experienced HVAC technician can provide the best advice on whether you should repair or replace your AC system. Ultimately, if your current system is more than 10 years old and has been needing repairs more often, then a new air conditioning system is likely the better long-term investment.
Central Air Conditioning Installation in Buffalo, MN
If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system, you may have plenty of questions – about pricing, features, new technology, and just about anything in between. At DeZiel Heating & AC, we’re here to answer all your AC questions and help you make the best decision for your home. Schedule an appointment today at (763) 200-5453
