Knowing More about Central Air Price
If you are looking for an air conditioning system that will operate in the many rooms of your home or office, try purchasing a central air conditioner. It can condition the air in different rooms at the same time. It also filters and dehumidifies the air, leaving a cleaner and more breathable atmosphere.
The next thing that comes to mind now is the central air price. It varies depending on some factors. It also differs by location or region. At an estimate, the typical cost of central air conditioning system ranges an average of $3,500 to $4,000 if the system is added to an existing forced-air heating system that needs little or no building. This is based on a 2,000 square feet house. For an older, smaller house or building that is 800 to 1,000 square feet and which has no existing ductwork, the average cost ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. And if ducts should be added, the work time also doubles so the price may range from $7,000 to $8,000.
The installation is an addition to the central air price. The system is not usually sold directly to customers because installing it needs a licensed contractor. So, the installation of the system is actually more expensive than the unit itself. So in buying, one should choose a package deal that includes the air conditioner, ductwork, permits, and labour.
Moreover, the load calculation affects the central air price. This considers the size and shape of the house, the house’s exposure to the sun, the amount of insulation, the local climate, habits and temperature choices of occupants, and other factors that determine the size of the central unit needed. The AC size greatly affects the cost: too large units cause frequent cycles of ‘on and off’ of the unit thereby reducing its efficiency, and too small air-cons are not able to cool the home or office adequately during warm days and are prone to break down more often. Larger systems also cost more because they require more work and time.
Air conditioning quality may not affect the price, but as observed, more expensive units provide better warranties – typically, a ten year warranty for compressors and a five year warranty for other air conditioner parts. For maintenance, HVAC contractors also offer a one-year warranty on installation, especially for central air systems that are to be maintained annually.
As mentioned, installing central air systems requires some complicated effort. It needs technical help from professional HVAC contractors and electricians. This is an additional cost, because they have to be paid for their service. If the building needs extensive ductwork modifications, then expect another additional cost. Before getting their service, get quotes from at least three contractors for you to give a good sense of reasonable payment.
Indeed, the installation costs more, but central air system is still a good investment. It assures low monthly electricity bills and of course, a more comfortable atmosphere, giving an ideal long term investment. Aside from these, health and environment are secure because the system uses environmentally friendly refrigerants like R-410A.