Factors That Will Impact The Cost of a Central AC Installation

There are numerous variables that determine the installation cost of central ACs. So, it is difficult to pinpoint the cost of installation, since everybody’s requirements are different.

Although some companies do give out approximate costs, what you end up spending could vary greatly from the expected cost range the company releases.

Understanding the various factors that affect your central AC installation, will give you a better idea of what to look for. These factors may be divided into two categories:

• Equipment related costs
• Installation related costs

Equipment Related Costs

1. Type of system

As the variety in types of AC systems is high, your installation costs will vary depending on the equipment you select. The following are some systems currently available in the market: Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems, ductless mini-split systems, ducted split systems, heat pumps, and water-cooled systems.

You need to choose the right system for your home, based on your requirements and available space.

2. Capacity of the equipment

AC sizes refer to cooling capacity and larger the AC, higher is its equipment cost. What capacity AC you require depends on your usage and space.

An undersized AC will have to work overtime to provide enough cooling and hence increase your energy bills which no one wants. An oversized AC will cool quickly and thus keep switching ON and OFF causing wear and tear of parts.

It is better to have a technician gauge your requirements and usage to recommend you the AC capacity you need rather than replacing your old system with a new AC of the same size.

3. SEER rating

This rating indicates the energy efficiency of an AC. Higher the rating, higher is the energy efficiency of the unit. But systems that are highly energy efficient could cost more.

4. Heating system

Although you might only want to install a new cooling system, it may so happen that your old heating system is not compatible with your new AC or gives frequent problems. It is wise to change your heating system along with your AC. This will reduce future repair costs, although it will increase total purchase cost.

5. Additional equipment

Installation of any additional extras like air purifiers or humidifiers will increase your costs. These may be essential to some households for the added comfort of certain family members but you will have to cough up more money to achieve this.

Installation Related Costs

1. New installation vs. replacement

The costs for replacing an old system are lower as compared to an altogether new installation as the infrastructure necessary for the new system such as ductwork, drains, or wiring is already present. You may face some repairing costs, but they will be lesser than creating new infrastructure.

2. Ductwork

The repairing of existing ductwork or installation of new ducts will add to your HVAC installation cost. Costs will vary depending on the size of your home, complexity of the ductwork, material used, and space accessibility.

3. Vents and zones

The higher the number of vents providing cool air, the higher your cost will be. Also, a multi-zone air conditioning system will cost more.