Need New AC Unit? Understand Your Options

If you're in the market for a new AC unit, you've got several options to consider. There are three main types of AC units: window units, portable units, and central air systems.

Window units are a popular choice because they're relatively inexpensive and easy to install. They're also a good option for small spaces or rooms.

Central air systems, on the other hand, are a more complex and expensive option, but they provide consistent cooling throughout the entire house. They're ideal for larger homes or those with multiple levels.

The size of your AC unit is also an important consideration, and it's essential to choose a unit that's the right size for your space.

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To determine the right AC unit for your home, consider the tonnage you need, which refers to the amount of heat the unit can remove in one hour, not its weight. A one-ton unit can remove 12,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) of heat.

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A unit that's too small won't cool efficiently, while one that's too large will cycle on and off frequently, wearing it out faster. Oversized units also struggle to remove humidity from your home efficiently.

Your local climate, home size, insulation, and window size all impact the tonnage you need. A technician should examine your home's specific needs before recommending an AC unit.

A well-maintained AC unit can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. However, a unit that's too large for your home is likely to fail faster than a properly sized one.

Getting the right-sized unit for your home can save you energy costs and extend the unit's lifespan.

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New AC compressor costs depend on factors like the compressor's size and type. If you're planning to replace your old AC unit, it's essential to consider the compressor's size and type to ensure you get the right one for your home.

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A Manual J load calculation is used to find out how many heating units your house needs. This calculation will help you determine the right size AC unit for your home, which is crucial for efficient cooling.

To make an informed decision, consider the following factors: the compressor's size and type, and the Manual J load calculation of your home. By understanding these factors, you can choose the right AC unit that suits your needs and budget.

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Ductless Split systems are a great option for homes without ductwork. They're simpler to install than a central AC system.

The average cost of a ductless split AC system ranges from $2,142 to $3,936. You can learn more about mini-split AC units by reading our guide.

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Heat pump systems are an energy-efficient alternative to an AC/furnace combo.

The cost of installing a heat pump can vary greatly, with the least expensive option ranging from $2,799 to $7,449.

If you're looking to go all out, a geothermal heat pump can cost upwards of $20,000, but it's worth considering its long-term energy efficiency benefits.

The cost of installing a new AC unit can vary widely, ranging from $3,800 to $7,400, depending on local market factors, the type and size of the unit, and other considerations.

To get a ballpark idea of what a new AC unit installation will cost in your area, do some research ahead of time and compare AC units to find the best solution for your home and budget.

If you're considering an air conditioning replacement in the future, ask your technician during your next HVAC tune-up what a new air conditioning install would cost. You can also talk to friends and neighbors who may have had a new HVAC installed recently.

Here are some estimated HVAC replacement costs by unit type:

Keep in mind that these costs can vary depending on local climate conditions, current ductwork conditions, home age and construction, and other factors that your professional air conditioning contractor will assess.

The cost of installing a new AC unit can range from $3,800 to $7,400, depending on local market factors and the type and size of the unit.

You can get a ballpark idea of the cost by researching local prices and comparing different AC units. Some types, like ductless air conditioners, may have lower installation costs.

Installing a window air conditioner will be cheaper than central air conditioning installation. If you're considering an air conditioning replacement in the future, ask your technician during your next HVAC tune-up what a new installation would cost.

There may be additional costs to consider, such as permits, inspections, labor costs, and insulation. Ask your contractor if these costs are included in the initial quote.

To calculate HVAC installation cost, consider the cost of the unit and local labor charges. You can use an HVAC cost estimator tool that takes into account your home's square footage, type of unit, and zip code.

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The cost of replacing both the air conditioner and furnace can vary greatly, depending on the type and efficiency of the units. A new AC unit can cost between $3,900 and $8,000, and factors like type, size, brand, and SEER rating can affect the overall price.

Here's a breakdown of HVAC replacement costs by unit type:

The "5,000 rule" is often used to decide whether to repair or replace an HVAC system. If the total cost of repairs is less than $5,000, it might make sense to repair it.

Installing a new HVAC unit is a job best left to the pros, as it requires work with electrical systems, plumbing, or gas lines.

DIY HVAC installation can be risky and lead to mistakes that cause higher utility bills.

Replacing an AC unit is a complex job that's not suitable for DIY, requiring advanced training, technical skill, and certification by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to handle refrigerants.

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Many areas also require permits for HVAC system installations, making DIY installation even more challenging.

For safety, code compliance, and warranty protection, it's best to hire a local air conditioning installation pro to do the work for you.

Understanding the average costs involved in air conditioner replacement or repair can help you make an informed choice, as the project can be costly.

Knowing your options up front is best, as it will help you decide whether to repair or replace your AC unit.

Getting multiple price quotes from different qualified HVAC contractors is a good idea. You should aim to get between three and four quotes to find the best professional and price for the job.

Researching and vetting recommended contractors is a smart move. You can use a service like Modernize to compare multiple quotes from top HVAC professionals.

It's essential to check the credentials of potential contractors. Look for certifications like EPA certification and check their Google ratings, BBB ratings, and recent homeowner reviews.

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To ensure you hire the right person for the job, use our HVAC contractor checklist. This will help you evaluate the pros and cons of each contractor.

Here's a quick checklist to help you get started:

Getting multiple quotes and checking the credentials of potential contractors will help you find the right professional for your HVAC project.

Replacing your old AC unit can have a significant impact on your energy bills. Approximately 50% of a home's energy bill is attributed to heating and cooling costs.

Older units are less energy efficient than newer models, which means you'll see the difference in your monthly energy bill.

The U.S. Department of Energy has increased the minimum efficiency standards over the years, so even if you maintain your old AC unit, it will always be less efficient than a modern system.

A higher SEER rating indicates greater energy efficiency, and the U.S. Department of Energy requires new air conditioner units in the northern half of the U.S. to have a SEER rating of at least 14, and in the southern half, a rating of at least 15.

Purchasing a new and more efficient unit could be a worthwhile long-term investment if you see your energy bills creeping up.

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If your air conditioner is having problems, you might be wondering whether to repair or replace it. A repair is usually the more cost-efficient option if the problem can be fixed for less than 50% of the replacement cost. If you've had your AC for less than a few years and are only experiencing a one-off breakdown, a repair might be a better option.

However, if you've had the same unit for over a few years and are experiencing month after month of unexpected breakdowns, it might be better to replace it. This is especially true if the repair costs are approaching or exceeding 50% of replacement costs.

Here are some signs that it's time to replace your AC unit:

If your HVAC unit can be repaired, that's almost always more cost-efficient than buying a new unit. Plan to call a tech for a repair in these circumstances:

If you encounter a problem like your AC is running but not cooling or your furnace is running but not heating, you might be able to repair it, or you might be looking at a situation where your system needs to be replaced.

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The "5,000 rule" is a good guideline to consider: multiply the age of the unit by the repair cost, and if the total is less than $5,000, you should consider repairing it. If it exceeds $5,000, it might be better to replace it.

You should also consider the frequency of repairs: if the answer is "yes", you should consider replacing the air conditioner. Otherwise, it's best to repair the equipment.

Here are some signs that you should consider replacing your unit:

If you're unsure whether to repair or replace your HVAC system, consult with a professional to determine the best course of action.

A mismatched AC system can cause more problems than you might think. The indoor and outdoor units need to be compatible to operate efficiently.

If you have a mismatched system, it's likely to break down more often. This can lead to costly repairs and even more frequent breakdowns.

A mismatched system won't run as smoothly as it should, which can make your home feel uncomfortable and even unhealthy.

A new AC unit is a significant investment, and it's essential to get it right. You can expect a new system to last anywhere from 15 to 20 years with adequate upkeep and proper maintenance.

To ensure your AC unit lasts as long as possible, regular tune-ups and maintenance are crucial. In fact, some people think that once the unit stops working for the first time, it's time for a new one, but this decision plays a significant role in determining how long an AC unit lasts.

Here are some essential factors to consider when it comes to AC system setup and maintenance:

By considering these factors and performing regular maintenance, you can help extend the life of your AC unit and keep your home cool and comfortable.

In some cases, your HVAC system setup might require removal of the entire system to replace just the air conditioning. This can happen when the evaporator coil is located in a hard-to-reach spot.

The evaporator coil is often situated in areas where it's difficult to access, such as in concrete slab homes. In these cases, our crews must remove the existing furnace to change the coil, then re-install the furnace.

In areas like Dayton, Ohio and Cincinnati, Ohio, we see a lot of concrete slab homes, which can lead to this issue. This can add extra labor costs to the job.

Replacing both units at the same time can be a cost-effective solution in these situations. This way, you can avoid paying a crew to remove the water heater again in a few years.

For example, if your HVAC setup requires the water heater to be removed for the AC replacement, it's likely to happen again when the furnace needs to be replaced. This can save you hundreds of dollars in labor costs.

In concrete slab homes, the downflow furnace often sits on top of the evaporator coil, making it necessary to remove the entire system.

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A mismatched AC system can lead to issues and a shorter lifespan. A system with incompatible indoor and outdoor units will not run smoothly and is more likely to break down.

Proper installation is crucial for a long-lasting AC system. If installed correctly, it can help extend the lifespan of your unit.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your AC system running efficiently. With adequate upkeep, you can expect a new system to last anywhere from 15 to 20 years.

Some factors that influence the lifespan of your system include:

If the price of a new AC system is right, it's a no-brainer to replace your old one. King Heating and Cooling regularly offers special deals on new AC installations, and you may even make up the cost gap in energy savings.

Replacing your old AC system can also make sense if you need something more efficient, as an older system can lead to eye-popping electricity bills. Regular maintenance can only do so much, and a new system may be necessary for energy efficiency alone.

If you're on a tight budget, you might need to make a tough choice and replace only the AC unit that urgently needs it. Replacing your AC and furnace separately will cost more in the long run, but sometimes you have to prioritize your expenses.

Replacing your air conditioner can be a significant expense, and it's not always possible to afford it at the same time as other necessary repairs. You may find yourself in a situation where you can't afford to replace both your indoor and outdoor units simultaneously.

If you're on a tight budget, it's perfectly fine to replace the unit that needs it most first. According to King Heating and Cooling, replacing the unit that urgently needs it may be a more feasible option, even if it means replacing both units separately in the long run.

Replacing one unit at a time may seem like a more affordable option, but keep in mind that it can still be expensive. However, if you can't afford both units right now, it's better to prioritize the one that's causing the most problems.

Here are some possible scenarios to consider:

In any case, it's essential to weigh your options carefully and consider your financial situation before making a decision.

Springing for HVAC maintenance costs may seem like an extra—and easy-to-ignore—item on your checklist, but it will save you money in the long run. This is especially true considering that new AC compressor costs depend on factors like the compressor's size and type.

Propane boiler installation costs can be a significant investment, but understanding what impacts your price can help you budget confidently for your home upgrade. Factors like the size and type of boiler, as well as labor costs, can add up quickly.

A Manual J load calculation is used to find out how many heating units your house needs, and it's a crucial step in determining your heating costs. This complicated formula can be daunting, but it's essential for making an informed decision about your home's heating needs.

To give you a better idea of the costs involved, here's a rough breakdown of the factors that impact propane boiler installation costs: