After responses from more than 11,000 homeowners, Home Advisor estimates that a new central air conditioning unit installation costs about $5,250. This price includes the licensed contractor (to handle the government-regulated refrigerant) and materials.
That’s a big dent in your home improvement budget, so how can you save money on a new A/C unit? Warner Service discusses a few ways to avoid paying top dollar to stay cool this summer:
Check the reviews. Many people recognize certain name brands, but do those companies really provide the best? Check online reviews from Angie’s List, Consumer Reports, and other reliable websites to shop and compare before committing to a unit. If you commit too soon, you could be stuck paying more than what you asked for in repairs and excess maintenance check-ups.
If you want our take on the best, check out A List Of The Best Air Conditioners By Trane or learn more in our blog, Which Trane HVAC Products Will Really Save You Money?
Consider the installation cost. When you replace or install a new air conditioning unit, there are two costs: the price of the unit and the price of the installation.
You might be able to save money by purchasing the A/C unit at wholesale price, but you shouldn’t skip out on the installation costs. A professional, quality installation can ensure that the air conditioner is the right fit for your home before going through all that back-breaking trouble.
Think about size. Any air conditioner won’t do for your home. You have to take into account your home’s square footage, how many levels it has, and the amount of insulation.
If the unit is too large, it’ll cycle on and off frequently, which wastes money on your energy bill. If it’s too small, the A/C unit won’t be able to cool your entire home on hot summer days.
Ask for the warranty. According to Home Advisor, “any newly installed air conditioning unit will come with a manufacturer's warranty.” The length will vary depending on the manufacturer, lasting between five to 15 years. It covers the equipment and parts in the appliance.
If you choose to invest in a contractor’s warranty, the labor for A/C unit repairs and additional work will also be covered. While typically more expensive than regular maintenance visits (with strict guidelines), extended warranties can still cover the cost of replacement parts, additional years for repair costs by a third party, and coverage by the manufacturer.
Pay attention to rebate opportunities. Many states and HVAC manufacturers offer rebates to help offset the cost of a brand-new system, particularly those that are higher efficiency. As of right now, Maryland offers more than 100 opportunities for tax credits and incentives, loans, and grants. Talk to your local contractor or visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency® to learn more.
Don’t fall for the lowest price or the first estimate. The lowest price nor the first estimate guarantees the best product for your dollar. When buying a new air conditioning unit, think about the total cost over the 12 to 15 years that it's supposed to last. For example, a high efficiency system might cost an extra $800 up front but could save you $300 per year on your energy bill.
If you take Warner Service’s few tips and tricks, you’re likely to save money on buying a new A/C unit. It could be on your energy bill, through tax deductions, or before installation.
For more information about this year's spring Trane promotion and other offers, click below to subscribe to our monthly newsletter:
