In the Phoenix area, having an air conditioner is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Summer temperatures can skyrocket to 120°F, pushing your A/C unit to its max. If your unit is outdated and not performing well, then it may be time to consider installing a new unit. New models of A/C systems are more energy efficient, powerful, and even quieter than older models. They can help lower your monthly electric bills, and improve your energy savings. If you’re interested in installing a new unit, keep reading to learn more about costs and important factors that can affect your decision.
Choosing the Right Size
One of the first things you should figure out when purchasing a new air conditioner is the size of the system that will be best for your home. You want an air conditioning unit that has sufficient power to push cool air throughout your home. This being said, you don’t want to install a system that is too large for your home, which will raise your electric bills and energy costs. Fortunately, there is a system of measurement to help you determine the right size of A/C. Air conditioning systems are measured by the amount of heat (in tons) they can remove from a space by the hour. For example, a unit that is measured as one ton can removed 12,000 BTUs of heat from a home, where a three-ton unit can remove up to 36,000 BTUs. If you have a larger home, then you will want to purchase an A/C with more cooling power.
Hiring a Professional
Other factors, such as the environment in which you live and your family’s specific needs, can affect the size of unit you want to purchase. It’s best to have a professional come to your home and give you an comprehensive recommendation on what size unit will be best for you. Some homeowners look to purchase an A/C unit wholesale and install it themselves, hoping to save money. While this is possible, there is a certain level of skill needed to properly install an air conditioning system. Plus, there are certifications in place to legally handle refrigerant in a safe and proper manner. If you happen to install a unit yourself and it is not done correctly, it can lead to costly breakdowns and damages, costing you more than if you had just hired a professional in the first place.
If you’re home has never had central air conditioning installed in it before, then you will need to hire a professional to install the proper electrical system and ductwork into your home. This type of installation is an invasive and timely task, in which you should ensure that it is done correctly. Many HVAC companies are willing to do free estimates to help make this process less expensive and easier for you. Talk to your hired contractor about your options and decided what type of unit is best for you and your home.
Factors That Raise Costs
In addition to the cost of your new unit and installation fees, there are several other factors that can affect your overall costs. For example, if you want a new thermostat or need to re-do ductwork to connect to your furnace, you will have to pay additional costs. Many units have a SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating that can affect how much you spend. The SEER measures how much cooling output a unit has during a season, divided by the electric energy input. Basically, the higher the SEER, the better. SEER ratings range from 14-27, in which higher SEER units cost more due to their advanced technology and efficiency. On the plus side, higher SEER ratings can help lower your electric bill and energy expenditures. They can also be quieter and more efficient, making their cost worth it in the long run. Again, it’s important to consult your hired contractor on what make and model of A/C unit will be most beneficial to your home by calling (602) 428-3341 . Click here to schedule a service call.
