Are you looking to install an HVAC system for your new home? Over 87% of American households own an air-conditioning unit. Hence, they also enjoy its cooling comfort and other benefits.
However, quality HVAC comes at a price. Thus, understanding the HVAC system cost is crucial before hiring any HVAC contractor.
How much should you spend on an HVAC installation? What are the key factors that affect the price of the installation?
Continue reading below for a quick rundown on the cost of having an HVAC system at home.
How Much Does an HVAC System Cost? The Breakdown
The average HVAC system installation cost in the United States ranges between $5,000 and $10,000. Break it down further, and you get anywhere between $25 and $60 per square foot of cooling and heating coverage.
For brand new installations, expect to pay a little bit higher. Generally, a brand new HVAC system installation can cost as much as $12,500.
The type and quality of the AC unit are key factors that affect the cost.
Central AC Unit Cost by Size
Having a bigger AC unit doesn’t always equate to efficiency. An improper-sized AC system for your house results in poor dehumidification. In turn, you get a sticky indoor feeling on top of your soaring electric bills.
A unit too small for your home yields uneven cooling. The unit will work harder to meet your cooling requirements.
Matching the unit’s cooling capacity with your home’s square footage is crucial. To cool a 600 to 1,000 square-foot area, the AC unit size should be 1.5 tons with a capacity of 18,000 BTUs per hour. It will cost around $2,200 to $3,200.
To cool 1,600 to 1,900 square feet, an AC unit with a size of 3 tons and 36,000 BTUs is your best bet. This will cost around $3,900 to $4,100.
Factors Affecting the Installation Costs
Aside from the type of AC unit and square footage, other factors affect the installation cost. For starters, there is the labor cost. It accounts for around 40% of your total bill.
Another is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating of the unit. It measures how much energy your AC uses to meet your cooling requirements, especially during summer. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the AC unit is.
Maintenance Expenses
Lastly, there’s the cost of maintaining your AC unit. HVAC problems will happen especially if you don’t do maintenance. Some of the most common HVAC problems won’t cost a fortune.
However, some issues require a trained technician. A leaking refrigerant is an example. Thankfully, you can invest in tools to address the problem early on.
Visit https://nevadanano.com/optimal-refrigerant-leak-detector/ to learn more about refrigerant leak detectors. Additionally, save up for regular replacement of HVAC air filters.
Improve Other Systems in Your Home
Now you have an idea of the HVAC system cost, plan and prepare accordingly. Always consult with HVAC experts to ensure your installation and maintenance efforts are at their best.
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