Central air installation costs vary according to the type of central air system you need, the size of your home, and the ductwork you have to install. It can also vary depending on the accessories you want. Generally, newer systems are more energy efficient, run more reliably, and are more durable. In fact, industry averages show that new systems can last between 12 and 15 years.
Reviews of central air installation contractors
Before you hire a central air installation company, it’s important to know what to expect. Costs will vary based on several factors, including the size of your home, whether it’s a single family home or an apartment building, and the number of units and ducts in your home. Most homeowners will spend $5,000 to $12,000 for a three-ton split system with a 16 SEER rating, while the highest-rated units can cost up to $15,000 each.
Cost of installing a central air conditioner
The cost of installing a central air conditioner varies based on several factors. The cost of central air can be significantly lower if a home already has ducts, but the price can be higher if additional ductwork is needed, or if the ducts need to be upgraded. A central air conditioner cools an entire home from one unit, which runs through a series of ducts and vents into each room. There are two main types of central air systems: packaged systems and split systems.
The size of the unit will also play a large role in the overall cost. A larger home will need a larger unit. This factor is determined by calculating the square footage of a home, but there are many other factors to consider. In general, a three to five ton unit is sufficient for most homes, but larger homes may require a larger unit.
Cost of installing a heat pump
The cost of installing a heat pump in central air installations can vary widely. Some systems only need ductwork and other parts of the home are electrified, while others require additional electrical wiring. A qualified HVAC contractor can coordinate all the necessary electrical work and will obtain any required permits.
Heating and cooling costs can be lowered significantly with a heat pump. A high-efficiency model can save a home thirty to seventy percent of energy costs. These systems also have supplemental heat strips to add an extra three to twenty-five kW of heating power. In addition to saving on energy costs, heat pumps can reduce the demand on the electrical grid.
Another cost benefit to a heat pump is its shorter lifespan. They typically last for ten to fifteen years, compared with twenty to thirty years for a conventional furnace. While heat pumps require less maintenance than gas furnaces, they can also be more expensive to operate in cold climates. Some extra-large homes may require more than one system, which can drive up the cost.
