We’re right in the thick of summer heat and humidity, so it’s important to keep your home cool during these warmer months. Central AC is a great option for many homes, but are the benefits really worth the central air unit cost? How do you know where to begin with choosing a unit?
We’ll answer all these questions and more in this outline of everything you need to know about installing an HVAC system in your home.
Assessing Your Home’s Cooling Needs
Purchasing an HVAC system with the correct size and capacity is crucial. If your unit is too small, it will struggle to cool your home and get overworked. Meanwhile, an oversized unit can cool a space too quickly without removing humidity, resulting in a chilly, uncomfortable atmosphere.
The British Thermal Unit (BTU) uses your home’s size, layout, and other factors to determine the ideal AC size and wattage for your home. Online calculators can help you get an idea of the size you need, but it’s always wise to consult with an HVAC tech before making your final decision.
In addition to the BTU, take in consideration these other factors, as they can change how cold air flows through, in, and out of your home:
- Quality, age, and type of windows
- The current state of insulation
- Existence and quality of ductwork
Choosing the Right HVAC System
Without experience in heating and cooling, selecting the right type of cooling unit can be overwhelming. Here’s a quick rundown to help you decide:
- Split Systems: Most common, include both an indoor evaporator unit and an outdoor condenser unit, efficient cooling, quieter operation
- Packaged Units: Components are housed in a single outdoor unit, ideal for smaller homes without space for a unit inside
When choosing a system, it’s also important to consider energy efficiency. An efficient unit is good for the environment and will keep your utility bills manageable.
Look for a unit with a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER), but be sure to consult a trusted contractor before shelling out the central air unit cost. Your ductwork and the layout of your home can also affect your AC’s efficiency, and an experienced HVAC tech will help you know if an energy-efficient unit makes sense for you.
Budgeting for the Central Air Unit Cost
Make sure you’re all set to invest in a new system before you commit to the central air unit cost. Generally, new units and installation cost about $6000. Exact prices can vary depending on what kind of system you choose, the size of the unit, the brand, the labor involved in installation, the layout of your home, etc.
Talk to your contractor to get a precise central air unit cost, and consider getting quotes from a few companies to be sure you’re getting a fair deal. Installing an HVAC unit is a complex task that requires professionals with experience, so going with the cheapest bid you receive may not always be a good decision with an HVAC install.
Finding a Contractor
When searching for a reliable HVAC contractor, it’s essential to conduct thorough research to choose someone qualified and trustworthy. Start with these steps:
- Get recommendations from friends, family, and neighbors
- Consult a local directory
- Read reviews from various platforms
- Verify certification, licenses, and insurance to protect yourself from property damage and liability for injuries
Once you have a shortlist, ask for central air unit cost quotes and get to know the companies to make sure you communicate well and feel comfortable with them working in your home.
Understanding the Installation Process
Knowing what to expect during installation can make the process smoother and less stressful. The HVAC techs will typically start by assessing your home so they won’t encounter any surprises during installation. Then they’ll remove any old equipment, install the new unit, and test the system to make sure everything is functioning correctly.
On average, installing your new AC should take one to two days, depending on the complexity of the job. Ask your contractor for a time estimate and be sure someone will be home throughout the process.
Caring for Your Unit Post-Installation: Tips and Troubleshooting
To get the best value for your central air unit cost, you can optimize your new unit’s performance with these tips.
- Set up a maintenance schedule with your HVAC company. Annual inspections and tune-ups are crucial for increasing the longevity of your unit and resolving issues before they get out of hand.
- Set your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re away or during cooler times in order to save energy and decrease wear and tear on your unit.
- Change unit filters regularly to maintain clean air circulation and prevent blockages.
Even with the best care and installation, you may encounter problems with your new unit. Common issues include uneven cooling, strange noises, and water leaks. If you notice any of these problems, call your contractor.
This is where the importance of a good warranty and reliable support from the manufacturer and installer is key. Make sure you have a brand and contractor who stand by their products and their work—find out what warranty and maintenance options are available from the very beginning to make sure your new unit will stay up and running.
Your Comfort, Our Commitment
At Bell Cow Service Company, we want you to stay cool and comfortable. Our friendly, trustworthy team is well-versed in central air unit cost, installation, and care, and they’re ready to help you select and set up the right system for your home. Don’t let yourself melt in the summer heat any longer—give us a call to talk about your AC options.