Installing a new air conditioner in your Clarksville home can be an expensive endeavor, so properly budgeting for this project is important. Between the cost of labor, the air conditioner unit and miscellaneous costs, you can easily spend several thousand dollars or more on the project. However, numerous factors will influence the final cost, and learning about this can help you to ensure that you maximize every dollar spent.
Average Costs for a New Air Conditioner & Labor
The combined air conditioner cost and labor cost may generally range between $2,800 and $7,800. Everything from the size of your home to the quality and energy efficiency of the air conditioner system that you select can affect the total cost, but you may also be able to save money in a few ways. For example, you may be able to qualify for various tax breaks or incentives. With a closer look at the many factors that influence the final cost of an AC installation project, you can create a more realistic budget for your project. (continue below)
Why Choose DOC Heating & Cooling?
The Size of Your Air Conditioner
One of the most significant factors that affects central air conditioner cost is the size of the unit. The size is generally measured in tons, and you will also see a BTU rating. An AC unit’s British Thermal Unit rating will tell you the average square footage that it is capable of cooling efficiently. Some people believe that buying a larger unit than is needed for the size of their home will pay off in the long run because the unit will not need to run as long or as frequently. This logic unfortunately does not hold true. Utilize a BTU calculator online to estimate the size of unit that is right for your home.
The Equipment’s Energy Efficiency
After you narrow down equipment options by size, you should focus on energy efficiency. Energy efficiency of AC units is measured by a SEER rating, which is a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio rating. A standard rating is in the range of 13 to 14, and a higher number is more energy efficient. While you will pay more upfront to purchase an AC system with a higher SEER rating, you will save money over time through energy savings.
The Average Cost of Top Brands
As is the case with most other goods, the cost of your AC system will be dependent on the brand selected. Generally, more expensive brands are higher in quality. They may have a stronger warranty in some cases, and their equipment could be more energy efficient comparatively. Some of the more expensive brands are American Standard, Trane and Carrier. Mid-level brands are Rheem, Rudd, Amana and HEIL. More affordable options are York and Goodman.
Utilizing Existing Ducts
One of the many other factors that will affect the cost of your AC installation project is the ability to use existing ducts in the home. If you are replacing an older AC system, most or all of the existing ducts may be used. This can save money on installation time and materials. However, some ducts may need to be repaired to ensure optimal efficiency of the new equipment. On the other hand, if you are installing a central AC system for the first time, labor and materials for the installation of new ducts must be added to the total project cost.
The Need to Upgrade Insulation
Even the most efficient unit with an excellent SEER rating will not operate as efficiently as it could if your home is not properly insulated. The quality and condition of the insulation in your walls and attic should be inspected at this time. If an upgrade is recommended, this should be added to the total project cost.
The Availability of Tax Breaks
Tax breaks and incentives change periodically. Some of these are offered by the government at the local, state or federal level. Others may be provided by your local energy provider or by other sources. Your AC installation technician can provide you with details about current tax breaks and incentives that may be used to reduce the overall cost of your AC installation project.
The Importance of Professional Installation
Some Clarksville homeowners may be interested in saving money by completing the installation work themselves. However, the Environmental Protection Agency requires professionals to be properly licensed to handle refrigerant, so you cannot legally install this equipment on your own. Keep in mind that a professional installation project could take a full day or even several days to complete based on the size of the home and the complexity of the project.
Call an Experienced Professional if Your System is Malfunctioning
Do you have an extremely old system? Are you seeing or hearing things that weren’t there before? If you suspect that the system is not working properly, you should call a professional as soon as possible.
A few signs that the system is in trouble include abnormal noises or smells, an extremely cold home, expensive bills, and frequent shutoffs. Regardless of the concern, an experienced professional can solve the problem and perform the necessary repairs before an emergency occurs.
Prevention and maintenance costs are much more reasonable than having a costly repair later. Whether you live in Clarksville, TN or somewhere close by, the professionals at DOC Heating and Cooling are ready to help. The highly-trained technicians are available 24/7 for emergency calls and for regular maintenance to help keep your heating & cooling system running smoothly.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Whether you live in Clarksville, TN or somewhere close by we are ready to help. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to keep your heating & cooling system running smoothly.
