Do you know how much it costs to replace your central air conditioning system? AC replacement cost is a lot more than most people think. As a homeowner, at some point you will likely consider whether or not to replace your HVAC system. This is a big decision, as a new AC system can be quite expensive, and you will be stuck with it for the next decade or so. If you want to have an idea of what the total cost will be so you can make any decisions about replacing your current unit, read on.
In this blog, we will list the many factors that go into the price of having a new air conditioning system installed, and not all of them are easy to figure out on your own.
If you are in Maryland, call SuperTech or schedule online for a free estimate on AC system replacement! We’ll take care of it.
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How much is Central AC Replacement Cost in 2021? A homeowners guide just for you!
If you're considering AC replacement in the near future, we would love to help. Since the cost can be daunting, we also offer financing options so that comfort is always affordable and attainable. Plus, a free estimate is hard to resist! Schedule online or Call today to get started on replacing your central air conditioning unit! After all, who doesn't want a cool home this summer?
1. Size
The size of your AC unit is an important factor to consider. You won’t feel comfortable if your AC unit is under-sized or over sized. No, a bigger HVAC system does not mean better. So, it’s important to get the right size. A load calculation is needed in order to size the unit correctly. Load calculations consider the square footage of your home, as well as elements that affect heat loss or gain such as windows and doors. The larger the size of the equipment you’ll need, the more expensive it is. A HVAC technician should do a load calculation for your home and size your central air system accordingly.
2. Efficiency
The efficiency of an air conditioner is rated using Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The SEER rating is the cooling output during a particular cooling season divided by the total electric output within the same period. SEER ratings are between 13 and 20 or higher. The higher the rating of your HVAC system, the higher the efficiency and the higher the initial cost of the unit. The operating cost of a higher efficiency unit would be lower.
3. Stages
Air conditioners can be classified into three types: single-stage, two-stage and variable capacity air conditioners.A single-stage air conditioner only has one setting, which is 100% capacity. The two-stage air conditioner has a 100% and 50% capacity setting, so it uses less energy and is more efficient than the single-stage air conditioner.Variable-capacity air conditioners are more efficient than single- and two-stage systems. They're controlled differently and operate continuously, often at around 30% capacity. They don't cycle on and off when the thermostat reaches its designated temperature as others do. They run much longer cycles.
4. Make
There are many brands of air conditioners in the market. Each brand is priced differently based on specs and individual manufacturer's peculiarities. Some higher; others lower. Lennox, Carrier and Trane are considered premium brands because they have a longer life expectancy of about 18 years. Rheem, Daikin, York and a few others are standard brands with lower life expectancy of 15 years or more. Airtemp, Goodman and Ameristar are budget brands that can last up to 12 years.
5. Duct work
Duct work is the system of ducts (metal or synthetic tubes) for transporting conditioned air from the HVAC equipment to the rooms and cycling air back to the equipment. Good air ducts increase indoor air quality (IAQ) and comfort. (You can learn more about your duct work here!) Sometimes, you may need to modify your existing duct work to meet the specifications of your new air conditioning system for optimum performance. Oftentimes, the existing duct work is not designed well or installed well or there’s too much wear and tear that makes it insufficient. If you address any existing duct issues or upgrade air ducts, it could increase your final central AC installation cost.
6. Line set protection
Line sets are copper tubes connecting your indoor air conditioning unit to your outdoor unit. Refrigerant therefore travels in this tube. Refrigerant is a chemical an AC uses to transfer heat. So, the line set should be protected from the weather, and damage. If it gets cracked, it can lead to refrigerant leaking out, significantly impacting the efficiency of your system.
7. Electrical cost
The areas that may need electrical modifications include updating the control wiring for a new thermostat, high-voltage wiring, and adding or fixing breakers.
8. Condensate drainage
An air conditioner removes moisture from air when it’s on. The moisture changes to water, and the water therefore needs to be emptied. Water could be drained to a floor drain or sump pump by gravity through a drain line. If not, a condensate pump is needed to pump the water up to where it needs to be drained out.
9. Installation cost for central AC
The installation cost of a central AC unit may vary depending on a number of things.
One is the complexity of the job. The cost of working on an indoor unit in an attic or crawlspace tends to be higher because installation is more difficult compared to installing in a walkout basement or first-floor utility closet.
Two is certification. An AC contractor who is trained and certified by a premium brand will charge more than someone who is not trained or specialize in any brand.
Three is the cost of living in a particular area which can affect cost by up to 20%.
Four is the time of the year. Installation costs are higher during the peak or high season and lower in off or low season. The busiest season is between April and September. The demand for replacement is usually very high in the months of June, July and August as many AC's break down during this period.
Cost also changes year over year due to inflation, cost of equipment and materials, and regulatory standards.
10. Tax credits and rebates for AC replacement
Some energy efficient HVAC equipment qualify for energy tax credits. There may also be local utility rebates in your area for installation of high efficient air conditioners. For example,the EmPOWER Maryland Low Income Energy Efficiency Program (LIEEP) allows for low-income households to install energy conservation materials in their homes for free. Also, sometimes manufacturers give their own discounts for higher efficiency systems.
11. Permits and inspection
Although federal law does not require a permit for AC replacement, local jurisdictions often do. If so, a permit needs to be obtained in order to start work. It's therefore necessary that you know these things ahead of time so you can comply with relevant local codes, system requirements and industry standards when making that switch. This can save you a lot of stress, reduce your energy bills and increase the life expectancy of your AC. If you are in Maryland, call an experienced HVAC contractor like SuperTech.
Our Top-Notch Technicians Will Get You The Perfect New AC!
If you're considering AC replacement in the near future, we would love to help. Since the cost can be daunting, we also offer financing options so that comfort is always affordable and attainable. Plus, a free estimate is hard to resist! Schedule online or Call today to get started on replacing your central air conditioning unit! After all, who doesn't want a cool home this summer? Plus, ask about our gold membership club where you receive free AC maintenance so your AC will last as long as possible.