How Much Does an Air Conditioner Unit Cost?
Air conditioners are a major investment for your home. The price varies considerably depending on a variety of factors, including size, energy efficiency, and features.
The AC system you choose should be the right size to your space. This will ensure that your new AC system is both efficient and economical.
Size
There are many aspects you must consider when selecting the best air conditioner to cool your home. This includes BTUs, tonnage, efficiency ratings and smart home integration. One of the most important considerations is size. The right size air conditioner will ensure that your home remains comfortable without consuming energy or causing more expenses.
Many homeowners make the error of assuming that larger is better when it comes time to measure the size of their air conditioner. In reality, a larger capacity isn’t always better. When an AC unit is not large enough for the area it is cooling it will cycle on and off often, never reaching the desired temperature. This can result in higher electricity bills, as well as less performance and wear and tears on the equipment.
A large air conditioner will cool the space too quickly, and might not be able to dehumidify the space correctly. This could result in a clammy uncomfortable feeling and can encourage the growth of mildew or mold. The non-stop operation of an air conditioner that is too big can cause excessive wear and tear, which can reduce the unit’s life expectancy.
To determine the right size of air conditioner for your home, you must be aware of the square footage. This information is usually located on the blueprints for your home or can be obtained from an expert. Once you have the data you can use a calculator online to calculate how many BTUs you require for your home. But, this is an estimate only and it’s recommended to consult with an expert HVAC technician before making a decision.
To get the most precise measurement possible professionals should conduct what is called a Manual J calculation. It is similar to an energy audit, and can be performed by an HVAC company or a general contractor. Calculations are according to factors like the size of your house and how much sun is exposed to it, the number of windows and their age, and many more. The experts will also take into consideration the type of insulation you have installed in your home, as well as the climate you live in.
Energy Efficiency
Your air conditioning system consumes lots of energy, therefore it is important to consider the efficiency ratings when shopping for one. A higher SEER rating indicates an energy-efficient unit that will help you save money on your utility bills. This information is available by looking at the label for energy star, or by asking a HVAC professional to evaluate your home and recommend a model that is efficient.
The most important aspect of the effectiveness of an air conditioner is its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). This figure tells you how much cooling it will provide in a year per watt of electricity that the unit consumes. A higher SEER rating comes at a cost upfront but you’ll eventually be able to recoup that investment by paying less each month on your energy bill.
There are many other ways to increase the energy efficiency of your AC unit. You can use a thermostat that you program to run the air conditioner when it is necessary. Insulation in your home can also help you save money on energy bills by blocking heat loss and lessening air leaks.
Another way to increase your air conditioning’s efficiency is to switch to environmentally-friendly refrigerants. The newer R-410A and Puron refrigerants not only have higher efficiency than Freon and have a less negative impact on the earth’s ozone layer that protects it. Installing solar panels can offset some of the energy your air conditioner draws from fossil fuels.
The best way to determine the price an air conditioner will cost is to visit an area HVAC firm and receive a free consultation with their sales and service technicians. They will evaluate your home to determine the best size unit for your needs. They can also explain the various energy efficiency ratings and what you should look for in a quality unit. They can also explain the cost of installation and any modifications to your ductwork that may be required. Finally, they can discuss any rebates you could be eligible for, depending on the type of air conditioner you choose.
Features
Air conditioners are equipped with many features. It is crucial to select one that provides the features you require. For instance, if your main goal is to ensure high quality indoor air quality, then a unit like the Daikin Perfera floor standing or the Ururu Sarara which offer top-quality and even self-cleaning air filters are the models you should be considering however, if you’re looking for a more advanced cooling capability then a window-mounted unit might be more appropriate for your requirements.
A good air conditioner unit should be able to evenly cool the entire room without creating hot or cold spots. The AC’s ducts, and the fan that circulates air throughout the room, allow this to be achieved. This is especially crucial for rooms that are large or have a lot of furniture since it prevents unbalanced temperatures that can cause discomfort.
Another important purpose of an air conditioner is its ability to control humidity. Being in a space with regulated humidity is beneficial for your health as it can minimize the risk of mold exposure dust mites, heat strokes and asthma-related respiratory problems. A good air conditioner must be able to maintain your home’s temperature between 30-50%.
Efficiency in energy is a crucial consideration when buying a new air conditioner. ENERGY STAR certified models meet efficiency standards, which reduce energy consumption and cost compared to less efficient units. Other features that help conserve energy include a sleep option that allows the unit to turn off at specific times of the night and a programmable clock that lets you set the AC to run during specific times when you’re working or away for the day.
A lot of modern air conditioners include smart features, such as the ability to connect to Wi-Fi and remote access via an app on your mobile device. This is a great choice for those who are often away from their homes and can arrange the air conditioning to cool down or warm up prior to their arrival.
Installation
It is crucial to choose the right air conditioner for your home. A model that is energy efficient will result in lower cooling costs and a longer service life for your equipment. In addition numerous states offer tax credits for homeowners who purchase high-efficiency appliances.
The best method to determine the right size of the air conditioning unit is to determine how many square feet the space will be cooled, then using that information to find the proper BTUs to run the system. It is also important to hire a professional to do the installation. This will not only guarantee that the system is properly sized but also protect your warranty and save money in the long run.
If you live in a home without ductwork an air conditioner that is portable is a great alternative. These air conditioners can be vented through a window and some models are made to fit casement or double-hung windows. These models are easy-to-use and can be plugged in to an electrical outlet. However they’re not as efficient as other types of air conditioners, and you could end up paying more for cooling.
On the other the other hand, a ductless system requires extensive renovation to be installed. The installer needs to install an additional thermostat, set up ductwork and wiring to support the operation of the new air conditioning unit. This type of installation can be more expensive than other but if you’re looking to reduce the cost of heating and cooling, it may be worth the extra expense.
It can be more costly to maintain a ductless system due to the need to conduct regular maintenance. Routine maintenance such as changing the filter, cleaning the drain pipe and cleaning the condenser will help keep your system running smoothly.
Ask your local dealer for rebates and financing. Many manufacturers offer discounts, particularly in the fall and spring. You could also think about the possibility of a loan that has 0% interest to pay for your new equipment. It’s also recommended to schedule an annual inspection to keep your air conditioner running smoothly for the years to come.