How much is it to install Central Air?
Are you considering installing central air conditioning in your home to escape the sweltering heat? Look no further! This comprehensive guide on how to get central air will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding different systems to assessing your home’s needs and calculating costs to install central air in your home. Read along to learn how to get the best central air unit at a cost that is right for you.
The Basics of Central Air Conditioning Units
Understanding the basics of central air conditioning will help you choose from the myriad of AC units available on the market. Factors such as split systems versus packaged systems and cooling capacity and efficiency significantly impact the system’s overall performance and cost.
Split System vs. Packaged System
Regarding central air conditioning units, there are two primary types: split-system and packaged units. A central air conditioner, also known as a split system, is more common. It consists of an outdoor unit (condensing unit) and an indoor cabinet (air handler), making them cost-effective if you add a central AC to a furnace system in your home.
On the other hand, packaged AC units combine all components into a single outdoor unit, making installation faster and a suitable option when replacing a furnace. Like split systems, they also require more maintenance and can be more challenging to repair if one component fails.
Cooling Capacity and Efficiency
Choosing a central air conditioning system involves considering crucial factors such as cooling capacity and efficiency. Cooling capacity is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and helps determine the system’s ability to cool your home. Efficiency, on the other hand, is evaluated using the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. Higher SEER ratings mean that your air conditioning unit will work at optimal energy efficiency levels, ultimately saving you money on energy bills.
Assessing Your Home’s AC Unit Needs
The needs of each home and household vary when it comes to installing an effective and affordable central air conditioning system. By conducting a pre-installation evaluation, including a Manual J load calculation, you can determine the appropriate system for your home and estimate the installation costs.
What is Manual J Calculation?
The Manual J calculation is a critical step in determining the appropriate central air system size for your home. This calculation takes into account factors such as:
- Square footage
- Insulation
- Climate
- Sunlight exposure
By considering these factors, you can accurately estimate the size of the air conditioning unit required to cool your home efficiently. Ultimately, the larger your home is, the bigger the central air unit you will need to ensure that it gets efficient levels of heating and cooling throughout the year.
Short-Term Costs of Central AC
When installing central air conditioning in the home, it is important to evaluate both long-term and short-term costs. The short-term costs to install central air conditioning include factors such as the brand and model of the unit, the labor costs of air conditioning contractors, and the type of labor required to install the unit.
Brand and Model of Central AC Unit
The initial cost of the system is significantly affected by the brand and model of the central AC unit. Factors such as longevity, name recognition, and the quality of its components will affect the costs of different brands.
Additionally, the unit’s SEER rating can significantly impact the cost, with higher SEER ratings typically resulting in higher costs. By researching and comparing various brands and models, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.
Labor Costs of Hiring a Professional HVAC Contractor
The labor costs for installing central air can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the complexity of the installation. Labor rates for HVAC technicians usually range from $75 to $150 per hour, while the average installation cost is $5,900 for a central AC. Take the time to request multiple quotes from multiple providers to compare prices.
Type of Labor Required for the Installation Process
The cost to install central air depends on the system and the AC unit size. For most central air installations, technicians typically require a few hours to a full day of work. If additional ductwork is necessary, the installation can take an additional two days.
Long-Term Costs of Central Air Conditioning Installation
Apart from the upfront costs of central air conditioning installation, considering the long-term costs is equally important. These costs include:
- Energy bills
- Routine maintenance tasks
- Repairs
The long-term costs of installing a central air conditioning system can vary depending on factors such as the size of the system and any upgrades or modifications.
Energy Bills
Your energy bills may be significantly affected by central air conditioning systems. The cost of running central air depends on several factors, including:
- The size of the unit
- SEER rating
- Climate
- The local cost of electricity
This is why it is essential to choose an air conditioning unit with the help of a professional who will guide you in choosing something that is energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Routine Maintenance Tasks
Routine maintenance tasks are vital to ensuring the efficient operation of your central air conditioning system and extending its lifespan. Most companies offer a set fee for maintenance packages that include a yearly tune-up and minor repairs. This can help keep your unit running optimally. By investing in routine maintenance, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your central air system remains in optimal condition.
Central Air Repairs
Central air conditioning systems may require occasional repairs to keep them functioning efficiently. While some repairs can be more expensive than others, it’s important to address any issues promptly to prevent further damage to your central air system. By keeping up with routine maintenance tasks and addressing repairs as needed, you can extend the life of your central air system and maintain its efficiency.
Energy Tax Credit 2023
Though buying a new air conditioning system for your home can seem intimidating because of the high price tag, do not be discouraged. The federal government issued the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which provides energy tax credits to those who purchase high-tier, energy efficient, central air conditioning systems for their homes. This tax credit will help cover up to 30% of all installation and purchase costs of your new air conditioning system. The benefits of this energy tax credit will remain as long as the funds are available, so take advantage of this credit now.
Call Us to Learn More About the Cost of installing Central Air
Are you in need of a central air installation? Contact Dream Team Heating & Air today to learn about the promos, specials, and deals we have for you. We will provide free quotes on the project cost and ensure that you are supported throughout the entire process.