How Much Does an Air Conditioner Unit Cost?
Air conditioners are an important investment for your home. The cost of the unit varies widely based on several factors including the size, energy efficiency and features.
The AC system you choose must be properly sized to your space. This will ensure that the new AC system is efficient and economical.
Size
When it comes to selecting the best air conditioner for your home, there are a myriad of factors to consider – from BTUs and tonnage to efficiency ratings and smart home connectivity. One of the most important factors is size. A properly sized air conditioner will keep your home comfortable without wasting energy or increasing costs.
Often, homeowners mistakenly assume that bigger is always better when it comes down to the size of an air conditioner. In fact, more tonnage could be detrimental. If an AC unit is too big for the space it is cooling it, the AC will be on and off frequently and not reach the temperature desired. This leads to higher electricity bills, as well as poor performance and wear and tear on the equipment.
A large air conditioner can chill the room too quickly, and may not be able to dehumidify the space correctly. This can result in a dry, uncomfortable feeling and promote the growth of mildew or mold. Additionally, the constant running of an over-sized air conditioner can cause excessive wear and tear and shorten the life of the unit.
To determine the correct size of air conditioner for your home, you must know the square footage of your home. This information can be found on the blueprints of your home or from an expert. Once you have the information, you can use an online calculator to determine the number of BTUs needed for your home. But, this is just a rough estimate, and it is recommended to speak with a professional HVAC technician before making a final decision.
To get the most precise measurement, a professional should carry out what is known as a Manual J calculation. This is similar to an energy audit of your home. It is performed by an HVAC company or a general contractor or even a home inspector. Calculations will be made based on factors such as the size of your home and the amount of sun exposed to it, the amount of windows and their age, among other things. Professionals will also consider the type of insulation you have installed in your home, as well as the climate you live in.
Energy Efficiency
When you are looking for an air conditioner, it is important to take a look at the efficiency ratings. A higher SEER rating means the energy efficiency of the unit that will help you save money. This information can be found by looking at the energy star label or asking an HVAC professional to assess your house and recommend a more efficient model.
The most important factor in an air conditioner’s efficiency is its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). This number tells you how much cooling it will provide in a year per watt of electricity that the unit consumes. A higher SEER rating comes with a cost upfront but you’ll eventually be able to recoup that investment by paying less monthly on your energy bill.
There are many other ways to improve the efficiency of your AC unit. You can use an adjustable thermostat that you program to only run the conditioning when it is required. Also having insulation in your home will aid in keeping your energy bills lower by reducing heat loss and by stopping air leaks.
Another way to increase your air conditioning’s efficiency is to switch to environmentally-friendly refrigerants. The latest R-410A or Puron refrigerants are more efficient than Freon and have a lower impact on the earth’s ozone layer. Installing solar panels can help offset some of the energy your air conditioner consumes from fossil fuels.
To find out the price an air conditioner is going to cost, go to a local HVAC firm and talk to their experts. They can evaluate your home and recommend a new unit that is suitable for your requirements. They will also be able to explain the different energy efficiency ratings and what you should look for in a good quality unit. They can also discuss the costs of installation and any changes to your ductwork that may be required. Finally, they can discuss any rebates on energy that you might be eligible for depending on the type of air conditioning you choose.
Features
There are a variety of features that are available in air conditioners and choosing one that is equipped with the functions you require is essential. For instance, if your main goal is to maintain a good indoor air quality then a model like the Daikin Perfera floor standing or the Ururu Sarara which offer top-quality and even self-cleaning air filters are models you should be considering however, if you’re seeking advanced cooling capabilities then a window-mounted model might be better for your needs.
A high-quality air conditioner should be able to evenly cool the entire room without causing hot or cold spots. This is made possible by the AC’s ducts and fan that to distribute air throughout the room. This is particularly crucial for rooms that are big or have lots of furniture because it prevents uneven temperatures that can cause discomfort.
Another major purpose of an air conditioner is its ability to regulate humidity. Having an environment with regulated humidity is beneficial to your health as it can minimize the risk of mold exposure, dust mites, heat strokes, and respiratory diseases like asthma. A good air conditioner should be able maintain your home’s temperature between 30-50%.
When you are buying an air conditioner, energy efficiency is also an important factor to take into consideration. ENERGY STAR certified models have been tested to meet efficiency standards and reduce energy consumption and cost as compared to less efficient units. Other features that save energy include a sleep option that allows the unit to turn off at certain times at night and a timer that can be programmed that allows you to set the AC to run at certain periods of time when you are at work or away for the day.
A lot of modern air conditioners have smart features, such as Wi-Fi compatibility and remote control access through an app on your mobile device. This is a great choice for those who often away from their home and can set the air con to cool down or warm up before getting home.
Installation
A new air conditioner is a big investment, so it’s crucial to choose the right unit for your home. A high-efficiency model will reduce the cost of cooling and increase the life of your equipment. Many states also offer tax credits for homeowners who install high efficiency units.
The best method to determine the right size of the air conditioning unit is to determine the square feet of space will be cooled and using that information to find the appropriate BTUs required for the system. In addition, it is essential to hire a professional to do the installation. Not only does this ensure that the system is properly sized and installed, but it can also help ensure the warranty is protected and saves you money in the long run.
Portable air conditioners are a great alternative for homes with no ductwork. They can be vented through to a window or even designed to fit double-hung or casement windows. These models are easy-to-use and can be plugged in to an electrical outlet. They aren’t as efficient in energy use as other types of air conditioning, so you may end up paying more on your cooling bill.
On the other the other hand, a ductless system requires extensive renovation to be installed. Installers must install ductwork and wires in order to support your new air conditioner. This kind of installation is usually more expensive than other options, but it can be worth the additional expense if you’re looking to reduce your cooling and heating costs.
A ductless system could be more costly to maintain, since it is essential to keep up with regular maintenance. Conducting routine tasks such as changing the filter or cleaning the condenser coils or vacuuming the drain line will aid in keeping your system in good condition.
If you’re planning to purchase a new air conditioning unit be sure to inquire with local dealers for financing and rebates. A lot of manufacturers offer discounts, especially in the fall and spring. It is also possible to consider a loan with no interest to cover the cost of your new equipment. It is also recommended to plan an annual inspection to ensure that your air conditioner will run smoothly for years to be.