How Much Does It Cost to Replace an AC?
Are you in the market for a new air conditioner? Maybe your current unit broke down, or perhaps it simply doesn't fulfill your cooling needs. Whatever the problem, a new AC can restore your comfort and help ensure you're prepared for the Arizona heat.
The first question most homeowners ask themselves is, "How much does it cost to replace an AC unit?" The AC replacement cost can range anywhere from $1,200 to $15,000+, with most homeowners paying between $4,000 and $6,000. The exact cost depends on the following factors:
In this article, we'll examine these factors in more detail and provide an overview of your possible AC installation cost.
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Are you in the market for a new air conditioner? Contact the NATE-certified professionals at Comfort Experts today for a new AC installation. You can count on our team to recommend and install a high-quality unit, all while providing excellent response times and fair, honest pricing.
Type of AC
The first factor that impacts costs is whether you're installing a central or ductless AC. A central air conditioner distributes cold air through ductwork that's installed in your home. Ductless systems, on the other hand, use individual units to provide cooling. These units are located in different parts of the home, allowing for zoned cooling.
On average, central AC units cost between $3,600 and $8,200, with most homeowners paying around $5,900. Ductless systems, meanwhile, can cost anywhere from $1,200 and $16,400, with the average homeowner paying $4,500. To determine which choice is right for you, consider the following factors:
- Ductwork requirements: If your home already has existing ductwork, it should be fairly easy to install a central AC system. However, if you don't have ductwork, a central AC will require renovations (which increases costs). In this case, a ductless system is generally the better choice:
- Home size/number of HVAC zones: If you have a large home that has numerous cooling zones, you'll need more mini-splits. As a result, the cost can be higher than that of a central AC system.
Installing an AC unit that's compatible with your home can help reduce costs.
Size and Capacity
The next factor to consider is AC size or capacity. In other words, how strong of an air conditioner do you need? Most homeowners need around one ton of cooling for every 400-500 square feet. This means that the larger your home is, the more your AC installation will cost.
Energy Efficiency Rating
In addition to size, consider the unit's energy efficiency rating. All air conditioners come with a SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating, which measures its efficiency throughout a cooling season. In Arizona, the minimum recommended SEER rating is 15. However, you can maximize comfort by opting for an AC with an even higher rating. While high ratings increase upfront costs, they help save money by reducing energy usage.
Potential Modifications
Depending on your home setup, you may need to make modifications before installing an air conditioner. Common modifications include the following:
- Ductwork repairs and installations: As mentioned earlier, central AC units require ductwork. If you lack ductwork, or if it's low-quality, it will need to be repaired first.
- Electrical upgrades: Your air conditioner requires a certain amount of electricity to work properly. If your home has less than 100 amps, you'll likely need an electrical upgrade.
- Increased insulation: Properly insulating your home prevents cool air from leaking and makes your AC more effective.
Incorporating modifications may increase the overall installation cost.
The HVAC Company You Hire
Last but not least, the HVAC company you ultimately hire will impact your total AC replacement cost. Most homeowners agree that it's worth investing in an experienced, reputable contractor. While this may be more expensive, it helps ensure high-quality results and reduces the risk of repeat, costly labor.
At Comfort Experts, we offer skilled professionals who are highly experienced in AC installations. We also provide upfront pricing, financing options, and assistance with tax rebates. When you work with us, you can rest assured that the job will be done right the first time.
Schedule a Free AC Estimate With Comfort Experts Today
Whether you're looking to replace an old air conditioner or need an AC for a new home, Comfort Experts has you covered. Our NATE-certified professionals are familiar with a wide range of makes and models, and they can provide recommendations based on your needs. With every AC installation, we offer speedy response times, customized financing, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.