How Much Does an Air Conditioner Unit Cost?
An air conditioner is an investment in your home that is significant. The cost varies greatly based on a variety of factors, including size, energy efficiency, and features.
You should choose an air conditioning system that is the right size for the space you have. This will ensure your new AC system is cost-effective and efficient.
Size
There are a variety of factors you should consider when choosing the best air conditioner to cool your home. These include BTUs, tons, efficiency ratings, and smart home integration. But one of the most important aspects is the size. The right size air conditioner will ensure that your home stays comfortable without consuming your energy or increasing your costs.
Often, homeowners mistakenly assume that larger is always better when it comes to sizing an air conditioner. In reality, more tonnage isn’t always better. If an AC unit is too big for the room it’s cooling it, the AC will turn off and on frequently and not reach the desired temperature. This results in more expensive electricity costs as well as lower performance and wear and tear on the equipment.
A large air conditioner can cool down the space too quickly, and could not be able to dehumidify it effectively. This can result in a dry uncomfortable sensation and encourage the growth of mildew or mold. The constant operation of an air conditioner that is too large can also cause excessive wear and tear, reducing the life expectancy of the unit.
To determine the proper air conditioner size for your home, you need to know your square footage. This information is usually located on the blueprints for your home or can be obtained from an expert. Once you have this information you can use a calculator online to calculate how many BTUs you will require for your home. This is just an estimate, and it’s recommended to speak with a professional HVAC technician to make a more accurate calculation.
A professional should perform an Manual J calculation to get the most precise measurements you can get. It is similar to an energy audit, and can be performed by an HVAC company or a general contractor. Calculations will be made according to factors like the size of your home, how much sun is exposed to it, the amount of windows and their age, and many more. A professional will also take into consideration the kind of insulation you have installed in your house and the climate you live in.
Energy Efficiency
When you are looking for an air conditioner, it is crucial to look at the efficiency ratings. A higher SEER rating means an energy-efficient model that will help you save money. You can locate this information by looking for the energy star label or asking your HVAC professional to assess your home and recommend a higher efficiency model.
The most important factor in the efficiency of an air conditioner is its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). This figure tells you how much cooling power the unit can provide per watt of electricity it consumes in a specific year. A higher SEER rating will come at an initial cost but you’ll eventually be able to recoup the investment by paying less each month on your energy bill.
There are other ways to improve the energy efficiency of your AC. You can set a thermostat that you program to run the air conditioning when it is required. Also having insulation in your home can aid in keeping your energy bills down by reducing the loss of heat and also by preventing air leaks.
Another way to increase your air conditioning’s efficiency is to switch to environmentally-friendly refrigerants. The more recent R-410A or Puron refrigerants are more efficient than Freon and have a lower impact on the ozone layer of the earth. Installing solar panels can offset some of the energy your air conditioner draws from fossil fuels.
To determine how much an air conditioner is going to cost, go to the local HVAC firm and speak to their experts. They can assess your home to determine the best size unit to meet your needs. They can also explain the various energy efficiency ratings and what you should look for in a good quality unit. They can also guide about the cost of installation as well as any adjustments that may need to be made to your ductwork. Additionally, they can talk about any energy rebates that you may qualify for depending on the type of air conditioner you choose.
Features
Air conditioners have a variety of features. It is crucial to select one that has the functions you need. For instance, if your main aim is to maintain good indoor air quality then a unit such as the Daikin Perfera floor standing or the Ururu Sarara that offer high-quality and even self-cleaning air filters are the units to consider however should you be looking for advanced cooling capabilities then a window-mounted model might be better for your requirements.
A high-quality air conditioner should be able to evenly cool the entire room without causing hot or cold spots. The ducts of the AC, and the fan that circulates air throughout the room, make this possible. This is essential in large rooms or ones with furniture, as it prevents unbalanced temperatures that can cause discomfort.
The capacity of an air conditioner to control humidity is another important function. Being in a space with regulated humidity is beneficial for your health since it helps reduce the risk of exposure to mold dust mites, heat strokes and respiratory diseases like asthma. A good air conditioner must be able maintain your home’s temperature between 30-50 percent.
Energy efficiency is a further factor to consider when purchasing a brand new air conditioner. ENERGY STAR certified models meet efficiency standards, which reduce energy consumption and cost compared to less efficient units. Other energy-saving features include a sleep option that allows the unit to shut off at certain times at night and a programmable clock that lets you set the AC to run at certain periods of time when you are at work or away for the day.
Many modern air conditioning units have advanced features, like Wi-Fi compatibility and remote control access via an app for your mobile device. This is an excellent option for those who frequently away from their home and want to set up the air conditioning to cool down or heat up prior to arriving.
Installation
It is essential to select the best air conditioner for your home. A high-efficiency model will lower cooling costs and prolong the life of your equipment. Many states offer tax credits to homeowners who install high efficiency units.
The best way to determine the right size of the air conditioning unit is by calculating the square feet of space will be cooled, then using that data to calculate the appropriate BTUs required to run the system. In addition, it is essential to get a professional to complete the installation. This will not only ensure that the system has been properly sized, but will also help protect your warranty and save you money over time.
For homes without ductwork, portable air conditioners are a great alternative. They can be vented out to a window, and there are models specifically designed to fit double-hung and casement windows. These models are easy-to-use and can be connected to an electrical outlet. However, they’re not as energy-efficient as other air conditioners, so you could end up paying more for cooling.
On the other side, a ductless unit requires extensive renovation to install. The installer will need to add a new thermostat, connect ductwork and wiring to ensure the operation of your new air conditioning unit. This kind of installation may be more expensive than other types but if you’re looking to save money on heating and cooling it could be worth the extra expense.
It can be more expensive to maintain a ductless system, because it is important to carry out regular maintenance. Routine maintenance, such as changing the filter, vacuuming the drain pipe and cleaning the condenser will help keep your system running smoothly.
If you’re planning to purchase an air conditioning unit be sure to check with local dealers for rebates and financing options. Many manufacturers offer a variety of discounts, especially in the fall and spring. It is also possible to consider the possibility of a zero-interest loan to help cover the cost of your new equipment. You should also plan an annual inspection to ensure that your air conditioner will run smoothly for the years to come.