Air Conditioning Replacement

If your HVAC unit isn't operating as well as it once did, it's time to replace it. The cost of replacing a whole HVAC unit ranges from $5,000 to $10,000, with the national average being $7,000. This equates to between $25 to $60 per square foot. Prices are determined by the size and brand of the HVAC system, the size of the house, the length of the ductwork and the efficiency rating of the new unit.

Square footage is a good beginning point for determining the size of your air conditioner, but many other considerations come into play. It's also critical to assess your own house. For example, how much shade is there, what kind of roofing do you have and how well is your property insulated? A single-family home's cooling requirements may be higher than those of a townhouse of the same size with one or more walls connecting to neighbors.

When it comes to obtaining a new home heating and conditioning system, our clients have a variety of financing options. We offer brand- financing through Bryant and Amana, plus we can help you get a loan and a refund via the City of Tallahassee Utility program. If that loan does not cover the entire purchase price, private financing for the balance may still be a possibility. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have during the replacement process.

Several factors influence the cost of AC installation, including:

1. Unit Size: Larger units for bigger spaces cost more.
2. System Type: Ducted central air conditioning systems are typically more expensive than ductless mini-split systems.
3. Installation Complexity: Factors like ductwork modifications or electrical upgrades can increase costs.
4. Efficiency Rating: Higher-efficiency units often come with a higher upfront cost.
5. Location: Local labor rates and permit fees can affect overall installation expenses.
6. Additional Features: Upgrades like zoning or smart thermostats add to the total cost.

Several types of AC systems are available to suit different needs:

1. Central Air Conditioning: Uses ducts to distribute cooled air throughout the home.
2. Ductless Mini-Split: Provides zoned cooling without ductwork, ideal for room additions or older homes.
3. Window Units: Compact and affordable, suitable for single-room cooling.
4. Portable AC Units: Easy to move and install, offering temporary cooling solutions.
5. Packaged AC Systems: Combines heating and cooling components in one outdoor unit, common in commercial buildings.
6. Evaporative (Swamp) Coolers: Uses water evaporation to cool air, suitable for dry climates.

Deciding whether to repair or replace your old AC depends on its age, repair frequency, and efficiency. If the unit is over 10-15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or uses outdated refrigerants, replacement is often more cost-effective. Consider replacement if repair costs exceed 50% of a new unit’s price. Newer models offer improved energy efficiency, which can lower utility bills. However, if the system is relatively young and the repair is minor, repairing may be the more economical choice.

Replacing your AC unit can improve indoor air quality if you upgrade to a model with advanced filtration and air purification features. Newer units often come with HEPA filters or UV light systems that can better capture allergens, dust, and other pollutants. Additionally, a more efficient AC unit will maintain better humidity levels and airflow, further enhancing indoor air quality. Always ensure the new unit is properly sized and installed for optimal performance.

There are a few ways to help keep costs down when replacing your home's air conditioner:

• Shop around and get multiple quotes from HVAC contractors to compare prices and services.
• Consider a mid-range efficiency model rather than the most expensive high-efficiency unit, as the upfront cost is lower.
• Time the replacement strategically, as prices tend to be higher during the peak cooling season.
• Explore rebates and incentives from your utility company or government programs to offset the replacement cost.
• Maintain the new system properly through regular tune-ups to maximize its lifespan and avoid premature replacement.

Being an informed consumer and working with a reputable HVAC contractor are key to keeping air conditioner replacement costs manageable.

The main advantages of upgrading to a smart or Wi-Fi enabled thermostat include:

• Enhanced Energy Efficiency - Smart thermostats can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule and habits, helping you save on heating and cooling costs.
• Remote Access and Control - You can control your home's temperature from anywhere using a smartphone app, allowing you to make adjustments even when you're not home.
• Improved Scheduling and Programming - Smart thermostats offer more advanced scheduling options to better match your daily routines and preferences.
• Detailed Usage Tracking - Many models provide detailed energy usage data and insights to help you identify ways to further improve efficiency.
• Compatibility with Smart Home Systems - Smart thermostats can integrate with other connected home devices for enhanced automation and convenience.

Overall, upgrading to a smart thermostat can make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.