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 a variety of factors, including size, energy efficiency, and features.
The air conditioning 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
When it comes to choosing the best air conditioner for your home, there are many factors to consider from BTUs and tonnage, to efficiency ratings and smart home connectivity. One of the most important aspects to consider is size. A properly sized air conditioner can keep your home warm without wasting energy or causing more costs.
Many homeowners make the error of thinking that larger is better when it comes to time to size an air conditioner. In reality, having more capacity could be detrimental. When an AC unit isn’t big enough for the area it is cooling, it will turn off and on frequently, failing to reach the desired temperature. This can result in higher electricity bills, and also poor performance and wear and tear on the equipment.
A large air conditioner will chill the room too quickly, and could not be able to dehumidify it correctly. This can lead to an unpleasant feeling of clammyness and may promote the growth of mildew or mold. The constant operation of an air cooling system that is too large can cause excessive wear and tear, reducing the lifespan of the unit.
To determine the correct air conditioner size for your home, you need to be aware of the square footage. This information is usually found on your home’s blueprints or can be obtained by an expert. Once you have this information you can use a calculator online to calculate how many BTUs you need for your home. This is only an estimation, and it’s best to consult a professional HVAC technician for a more accurate calculation.
To get the most accurate measurement, a professional should perform what is known as a Manual J calculation. This is similar to an energy audit of your home and is performed by an HVAC company or a general contractor or even an inspector of your home. The calculations that are performed will be determined by the floor area of your home as well as the amount of sunlight exposure and the age and quantity of the windows, and other aspects. Professionals will also consider the type of insulation you have installed in your home, and the climate you live in.
Energy Efficiency
Your air conditioning system uses an enormous amount of energy, therefore it is essential to take into consideration the efficiency ratings when shopping for one. A higher SEER rating means an energy-efficient model, which will save you money. You can find this information by looking for the label “energy star” or by asking your HVAC expert to evaluate your home and recommend a more high efficiency model.
The most important aspect of an air conditioner’s efficiency is its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). This figure tells you how much cooling power the unit will provide per Watt of electricity consumed in a given year. A higher SEER rating will come at an upfront cost but you’ll eventually be able to recoup that investment by paying less monthly on your energy bill.
There are other ways to improve the energy efficiency of your AC. You can utilize a thermostat that can be programmed to only turn on your air conditioner when you require it. Insulation in your home can also help you save money on your energy bills by stopping heat loss and the reduction of 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 our planet. Installing solar panels can help 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 company and get an appointment for a no-cost consultation with their service and sales technicians. They can assess your home to determine the best size unit for your requirements. They will also be able to explain the different energy efficiency ratings and what to look for in a good quality unit. They can also provide information on the cost of installation, and any modifications to your ductwork that may be required. They can also help you understand any energy rebates you may be qualified for based on the air conditioner you select.
Features
There are many different features that are available in air conditioners and choosing one that is equipped with the features you require is crucial. If you’re primarily concerned about maintaining a healthy indoor air quality then you should think about models such as the Daikin Perfera or Ururu Sarara, which offer premium air filters as well as self-cleaning models. On the other hand, you may prefer an air conditioner that is mounted on windows if you want to achieve advanced cooling.
A good air conditioner should be able to cool the room evenly without creating hot or chilly spots. The AC’s ducts, as well as the fan that circulates air throughout the room, allow this to be achieved. This is particularly important for rooms that are big or have lots of furniture as it helps prevent the spread of temperatures that could cause discomfort.
Another major purpose of an air conditioner is its ability to regulate humidity. Being in a space with regulated humidity is beneficial for your health as it can reduce the risk of exposure to mold, dust mites, heat strokes and asthma-related respiratory problems. A good air conditioner will be able to keep the temperature of your home between 30 and 50%.
When buying a new air conditioner energy efficiency is a major factor to consider. Energy Star-certified models meet efficiency standards that help save energy and money compared to less efficient models. 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 allows you to set the AC to run at certain times when you are working or away for the day.
Many modern air conditioners have smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity as well as remote control through an app that you can download to your smartphone. This is an excellent option for those who are often away from their homes and can set the air con to cool down or warm before arriving home.
Installation
A new air conditioner is a significant investment, so it’s crucial to select the best unit for your home. A high-efficiency model will reduce cooling costs and prolong the life of your equipment. Many states also offer tax credits for homeowners who choose to install high efficiency units.
The best way to determine the proper air conditioning unit size is by calculating the square feet of space will be cooled and using that information to find the proper BTUs for the system. Additionally, it’s important to get a professional to complete the installation. This will not only ensure that the system has been properly sized but it will also safeguard your warranty and help you save money over the course of time.
Portable air conditioners are a fantastic alternative for homes with no ductwork. They can be vented from to a window or even specifically designed to fit double-hung and casement windows. These models are simple to use and can be connected to an electrical outlet. They are not as efficient as other forms of air conditioning, so you could pay more for cooling.
On the other side, a ductless unit requires extensive renovation to be installed. The installer needs to install a new thermostat, install ductwork and wires to enable the operation of your new air conditioning unit. This kind of installation is usually more expensive than other options, however it’s worth the extra expense if you’re looking to reduce your cooling and heating costs.
A ductless system can also be more expensive to maintain, since it’s essential to be on top of regular maintenance. Routine maintenance, such as changing the filter, cleaning the drain pipe, and cleaning the condenser will help keep your system running smoothly.
If you’re considering purchasing an air conditioner be sure to inquire with local dealers for financing and rebates. Many manufacturers offer a variety of discounts, particularly during the fall and spring. You can also consider the possibility of a loan that has 0% interest to help you buy the new equipment. It’s also a good idea to schedule a yearly check to ensure that your air conditioner running smoothly for many years to come.