
Are you considering purchasing a new central air conditioning system like a Portable AC? You might be wondering how much it costs, how to find the energy efficiency rating, and how to choose a contractor. This article will help you with those questions and more. Before you buy, read this article to learn more about central air conditioning prices and energy efficiency. After you finish reading, you can shop around for the best price on a new HVAC system.
Cost of a Central Air Conditioning System
The average price of a 1.5-ton central air conditioning system is about $2500-$4500. More expensive units may require more extensive repairs, factory training, and a proven track record of quality installations. Depending on the size of the home, additional costs may include replacing outdated ductwork. Costs can rise to as high as $10,000 if the system is not installed properly or there are other issues with the structure.
The installation cost of a central AC unit can add as much as a third of the total cost. Labor fees for new units usually run about $1,250, while installation of ductwork and units costs about $2,550 to $3,600. Additional costs may include the cost of a home energy audit and insulation evaluation, as well as the actual unit. For most newer homes, however, the cost can be lower than $4,000.
A window unit costs $150-500 and is effective for cooling one or two rooms. In milder climates, a portable unit may be more appropriate. Prices for portable units vary according to brand and model. A ductless split air conditioning system includes the ductwork, an indoor evaporator coil, and an outdoor condenser. Depending on the model, a ductless system can cost anywhere from $2,400 to $14,500.
If you’re looking for a new central air conditioning unit, new construction is the most straightforward option. If you’re remodeling an existing building, however, you might be able to replace the existing unit. In this case, the total cost will be higher because additional plumbing and electrical work will be required to accommodate the new system. Additional HVAC systems or mold testing may also increase the cost. And finally, if you’re dealing with a house with asbestos or mold, the installation process may be more complex and expensive.
Energy Efficiency Rating
When comparing the energy efficiency of different central air conditioning systems, you should look for the energy efficiency rating (EER). This figure is based on the efficiency of the air conditioner in certain conditions, such as constant indoor temperature and variable outdoor temperature. It provides you with a quick snapshot of the efficiency of an air conditioner, but it is not necessarily indicative of the energy savings. For example, an air conditioner’s efficiency rating may be lower during the winter than it is during the summer, but a higher EER will mean less energy consumption and a lower utility bill.
The minimum SEER rating for central air conditioning systems was raised to 13 SEER in 2006, despite the fact that older models had only a six SEER rating. Several manufacturers make air conditioning units that have a minimum SEER of 13, but if you live in an area that requires a higher rating, there are still options available. In addition, the minimum SEER rating varies by state. In 2015, the minimum SEER rating was raised to fourteen in some states, because the DOE determined that a higher SEER would help save energy.
Another important aspect to consider when choosing a new central air conditioning system is the SEER rating. This number can help you determine whether to invest in a highly efficient model. A high SEER rating is 43 percent more energy-efficient than one with a low SEER. Therefore, high-SEER air conditioning units are worth their extra price. You may even be able to find a cheaper model if you shop around and compare the SEER scores of several different models.
Brands
If you’re on a tight budget and don’t have a ton of money to spend on a new central air conditioning unit, consider buying a Goodman. However, remember that this is just the beginning of your expenses. You’ll still need to spend money on parts and labor after your initial purchase. So, it’s best to buy a higher quality unit that will last for years.
In order to choose the right HVAC unit for your home, consider its efficiency and the brand of the system. Higher SEER ratings mean a more energy-efficient system, so look for a higher price. Also, consider if the model is a two-stage or variable-capacity unit. This type of system is more expensive than a single-stage unit but can reduce your energy bill.
Contractors
Whether you need your home to be more comfortable or your business to have a lower cost of running, HVAC contractors can help. They can provide routine maintenance and emergency repair services for both commercial and residential systems. The following are some things to keep in mind before you hire a contractor. Here are some ways you can ensure that your air conditioner and furnace are working at peak efficiency. Keep these tips in mind and your business will be more comfortable and energy-efficient.
Size of Unit
To determine the size of the central air conditioning unit you need, divide the square footage of the house by 12,000 to find the BTUs per square foot. Then multiply this number by 25 to get 50,000. Once you have this amount, divide that by 0.5 to get the number of tons required. Now, you’re ready to start shopping! How do you choose the right size for your home?
First, measure the size of the room. Air conditioners that are too small will struggle to cool a room, and they will run constantly. This wastes power and raises utility bills. The smallest central air conditioners have a cooling capacity of around 7,000 BTUs. Then, compare the size to the square footage of the room you need to cool. Refer to the chart below to find the size that will fit your space best.