During an age when the truth is just a few clicks away, many HVAC companies trade transparency for smoke and mirrors. Focused on the upsell, these heating and cooling contractors rarely take time to explain your options, consider your budget and make the recommendation that’s best for you. At ABC Home & Commercial Services, we take a different approach. Leading the industry by example, we educate customers about what they can expect from our products and services—then provide straightforward pricing without gimmicks and fine print. It’s this honest transparency that separates us from the pack, and it’s the reason so many of our customers stick with us for years. So, where do you begin when it’s time to replace your air conditioning system? It’s a confusing process, but we’ll walk you through it.
There are many different air conditioner types to consider when choosing a new unit for your home. Don’t get confused about industry jargon and new technology. Here is an overview of important things to consider:
Size
The size of your new AC equipment is determined by the size and construction of your home (think three-ton versus a four-ton system, for example). However, bigger is not always better, since an oversized air conditioner may cycle too often, inflating energy bills and putting stress on the equipment. To optimize your air conditioner’s performance, contact an experienced technician to evaluate your home’s layout and square footage and customize your system size to your unique comfort requirements.
Energy Efficiency
You might ask yourself: What is a good SEER rating? The higher your air conditioner’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), the more efficiently it performs. You will pay more for higher SEER units, but you’ll also enjoy proven month-to-month savings on energy and utilities. Many older air conditioners have SEER ratings of six or less, while newer equipment has a minimum SEER between 10 to 13. Installing a high-efficiency air conditioner improves home comfort—and adds value to your home. Check for local and federal rebates to help offset the costs associated with more energy-efficient units.
Building Codes & Regulations
Your air conditioner must meet building code requirements, as well as state and federal regulations. A certified air conditioning installer can walk you through these guidelines to ensure your repair or installation is up to code. These requirements exist for your safety, and should not be overlooked. If your existing system is outdated or does not meet current codes, a trusted HVAC contractor can perform an inspection and recommend equipment repair or replacement.
Installation
Remember, the overall cost of an air conditioning unit is not just what you pay upfront. There are other factors to consider, including system lifespan and the cost of repairs over time. Proper installation protects the lifespan and performance of your system. Consider this: if you pay $1,000 less for a poorly installed air conditioner, the resulting repair or early replacement costs may quickly eat up that savings. Likewise, many air conditioner repairs or emergencies are prevented when your system is installed properly in the first place. Make sure you hire an experienced, certified team to install your air conditioning unit right—the first time.
The cost of your air conditioner is also determined by the accessories and features you select, which can include hospital-grade clean air filters to smart thermostats and zone heating capability. Do your research to determine which options meet your indoor climate needs and deliver the most value. An experienced technician can help you outfit your new air conditioner to meet your budget and comfort objectives. Choose a recommended HVAC company that delivers no sales pressure and just straightforward recommendations.
How Much Does A New Air Conditioner Cost?
The most common question about installing an air conditioner is easily: “How much will my new air conditioner cost?” The short answer to this is, “it depends,” and it truly does. For instance, the installation of a ductless system could be more than that of a less efficient central AC system. But, if you don’t already have ductwork installed, then a central system installation could be more complex, and subsequently more costly.
A few factors can cause the price of your system to go up or down: ductwork and home size.
Air Ducts
Are you replacing, or perhaps even buying a new central air conditioner? This means you’ll need to have ductwork in place. In addition, if you already have ductwork snaking its way through your home, then you’ll want to make sure it’s in good condition. Were your ducts professionally installed to begin with? Are there any loose connections or leaks occurring? Damaged ductwork equals an inefficient cooling system. So, before you have a new system installed, having your ductwork professionally repaired needs to be a priority—which can add to your initial costs.
Home Size
How large is the space your air conditioner is meant to cool? You’ll need an HVAC professional who will help you choose an appropriately sized air conditioning system. A common homeowner misconception is, “the bigger, the better.” However, as we’ve already pointed out, this thinking can do more harm than good to the actual air conditioner, causing it to short-cycle—that is, rapidly turn on and off, inefficiently so. And of course, too small of a system cannot adequately cool your home.
ABC Can Help You Make The Best Investment
There are many factors to consider when deciding what heating and cooling system, particularly since this tends to be a major investment for homeowners. The experts at ABC Home & Commercial Services have been providing reliable, honest guidance to Texans for generations to help inform this important decision. With ABC’s help, you can decide on an AC that will work best for your home, get it installed properly and start seeing the savings that come in the form of reduced utility and repair bills.
