Factors That Affect Air Conditioner Installation Cost

Posted on: 5 October 2021

The cost of a new cooling system for your home doesn't end when you purchase an AC unit. You'll need technicians to install the air conditioner in your house. Here are some factors that affect air conditioner installation costs. 

Energy Audit

A load calculation is the first thing an air conditioner technician will do before installing an AC. The calculation tells the technician the amount of heat your house gains during the day. This will help them determine the appropriate AC size for cooling your home.

The load calculation is part of a home energy audit, and it will be part of the cost of installing your AC. The assessment will identify air leaks and any issues that could increase the cost of running your air conditioner.

Condition of the Ductwork

The ductwork acts like the veins of your air conditioner. The air moving through the ducts allows the AC to cool and heat your home effectively. Problems with the ducts are mainly associated with the age of the ductwork.

Ducts also malfunction because of leaks. There is reduced airflow when there are duct leaks, which makes your AC work harder to attain the desired room temperature. Oversized ductwork is also another problem that will result in increased run times for the AC.

The AC technician will evaluate your ductwork to identify any problems and offer their recommendations. If your ductwork needs to be changed or upgraded, it will add to the air conditioner installation cost.

Zones and Controls

Zones and controls also affect AC installation costs. Interior structures that need a multiple-zone air conditioner will have spaces that require different types of air conditioning. This is mainly the case in large homes, which require high cooling power in rooms that retain higher heat than other rooms. For example, the kitchen in a large home will have different conditioning requirements than the living room in the same house.

Innovations in the air conditioning industry like wireless thermostats give homeowners more control over their AC systems. This technology allows you to control your air conditioning system remotely. However, the cost of AC installation is greater for homes with high zone and cooling requirements.

Location

The location of the AC will also affect the cost of installation. If you're replacing an old AC with a new one, you can avoid additional costs by installing the new one at the same location. Changing the location of an AC will mean adding new ductwork and modifying the existing framework. If the AC will be located in upper stories, the extra work will inflate the installation cost.

Contact a local HVAC technician to learn more about AC installation.

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