How Are AC Installation Costs Calculated?

When it comes to installing whole-house air conditioning systems, a large number of factors impact the overall upfront costs. These factors include:

1. Home Size

AC installation costs greatly depend on the system’s overall performance necessary to keep your home cool. A home with larger square footage requires a more robust cooling system than one with minimal space. Fortunately, advancements in technology make it easy to ensure that even large homes feel comfortable during summertime without overworking the system.

2. What Your Needs Are

It’s important to establish what you hope to accomplish with your AC system early on. Are you looking to cool down your entire home, or are you hoping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures? Will you run your cooling system full blast, or are you okay with running it only half the day? Your desired comfort levels and the performance of the system all play a crucial role in determining installation pricing.

3. Efficiency Of Your Home

Another aspect of selecting a cooling system for your home is determining the amount of efficiency your building has. Suppose you have great insulation, few windows that face west, and have naturally shaded areas. In that case, chances are you won’t need to run your AC system regularly. However, any homes with poor insulation and no shade require a high-performance system to ensure desired indoor temperatures.

4. AC Energy Efficiency

Much like any other appliance in the home, there’s also energy efficiency to think about during the selection process. The efficiency of the AC unit is determined by the amount of heat it removes and the power necessary to cool down the space. The rating that determines this is called the SEER rating. It is important to consider your efficiency requirements when selecting a system for your home. However, it’s important to bear in mind that certain cities, such as Portland require that AC systems have a SEER rating of 13 or higher. Unfortunately, these requirements are slated to become even more rigid in 2023, especially in northern areas, meaning that an increase in AC system pricing is inevitable.

Though the upfront investment of a more energy-efficient unit is off-putting for many homeowners, it pays to go with an efficient unit in the long haul. Lower monthly utility bills are just among some of the more desirable benefits.

5. Noise Restrictions And Personal Preferences

Whether you’re sensitive to humming or buzzing sounds or your HOA determines the level of sound your AC system can emit, both of these factors play a role in determining installation costs. A quieter model or system may cost a bit more, but well worth it to adhere to strict personal and established guidelines.

6. System Type

The type of AC system you want to have in your home can significantly impact investment costs. For example, you can choose from central AC systems to ductless, or heat pump fueled units. All systems have their own benefits and setbacks, but one of our friendly consultants can help you get educated on what your options are to make choosing easier.

7. A New Vs. Replacement System

The installation price is greatly impacted by whether your home needs an AC replacement or getting a new unit for the first time. Usually, when your home already has an existing system in place, replacing it with something energy efficient is more affordable than a completely new installation.

The Actual Cost Of AC Installation

There are many variables that play a determining factor in how much AC installation costs for homeowners. However, on average, homeowners can expect to pay as little as $5,000 or as much as $10,000, depending on their requirements.

Ductless systems are usually priced at $5,500 and above. Though more expensive than their traditional counterparts, they also yield a large number of advantages for homeowners, making the upfront investment worthwhile. For example, ductless systems have the benefit of allowing zoning, which means each sector of your home is controlled separately.

Why Are Ductless AC Systems So Popular?

Ductless AC systems are ideal for homes that don’t already have installed ductwork. These systems are fueled by heat pump technology, though their name may suggest otherwise. Once again, zoning is perhaps the most desirable function of these systems as they allow for the optimum cooling of separate rooms in the house. This also increases efficiency as it allows you to cool your home one room at a time versus focusing on unnecessary sectors, such as the basement or guest bedroom.

Ductless systems are expensive and will generally start at $5,500 and may often run past the $10,000 mark. Though installation costs are relatively high, they also offer unsurpassed savings through energy efficiency in the home. If you’re looking to stay in your current property for many years to come, it’s worth investing in a ductless system.

What Determines AC Installation Pricing?

The size, type, brand, SEER rating, and the manufacturer all play a crucial role in determining the installation costs of your chosen unit. For example, a more efficient unit with a higher SEER rating is costly to install but will yield numerous benefits in the long term such as lowering energy costs. In most instances, these savings can total thousands of dollars over the years.

Not all AC system brands are created equal, which is why it’s important to choose a reliable and time-tested manufacturer. We always recommend and usually install Carrier as they offer high-quality systems that are made to last with very little maintenance required.

In the past, AC systems were seen as luxury appliance available to few affluent homeowners. However, thanks to advancements in technology and more affordable pricing, AC units are a requirement for many. Not only is a newly installed AC system a great way to add value to your property, but it’s an investment in your health, productivity, and comfort. As experts, we can safely tell you that you can increase your home’s value by up to 10% with an AC system!

Though AC installation services may appear pricey, they’re worth investing in. At Jacobs Heating and Air Conditioning, we have plenty of financing options and payment plans to help you curb the costs of your new investment!

Regular Maintenance Made Affordable!

Regular AC maintenance can prolong the life of your system, increase its efficiency, and eliminate potential costly emergencies. Never put off maintaining your unit! Opting for a yearly tune-up can ensure your system is running efficiently, even during the year’s hottest months. Additionally, maintenance is more cost-effective than hiring emergency services to repair your unit.

Advantages Of An Air Conditioning System

Technology has changed our perception of air conditioning systems, and in recent years, they have become better at helping control indoor temperatures and provide comfort. Ductless systems have also made zoning completely possible in larger households, which will enable you to lower your carbon footprint while also running a more energy efficient household.

Air conditioning systems are also an ideal way to protect your household against harmful pollutants in the air. From increasing forest fires to windstorms contributing to allergy season, having a system that keeps your home cool in the summer will eliminate the need to open windows. Modern AC systems also contain state-of-the-art filtration, and that will ensure that the air circulating in your home is cleaner and fresher than what you experience outdoors. Though seemingly costly, AC systems are worth the price.