How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?
Typical price range: $2,500 – $7,000
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Air conditioners play an important role in making your home comfortable during the hot months. Whether you live in desert climates or high-humidity areas, adding a cooling system to your home is a worthwhile way to provide relief from the heat in the summer.
Replacing your older unit can also help save you money on your energy bill. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), newer air conditioner designs use 30โ50% less energy than they did 30 to 40 years ago. Even 10-year-old AC units can use up to 20โ40% more energy than older systems.
The cost of air conditioning can be broken down into the unit, installation, maintenance, and energy bills. The This Old House Reviews Team has completed in-depth research to provide average costs and give you a general idea of what to expect. Pricing can vary depending on a range of factors such as location, home size, property details, and more.
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How Much Do Air Conditioners Cost by Type?
Choosing an AC system involves more decisions than just price. Your home may require a certain type, or you may prefer one type over another based on your comfort. Keep reading for information on the five most popular air conditioners and their average prices. If you still need help figuring out what is best for your house, enter your ZIP code below and connect with a local professional:
8,000โ12,000 BTU: 350โ550 square feet
12,000โ18,500 BTU: 550โ1,050 square feet
18,500โ25,000 BTU: 1,050โ1,600 square feet
Type | Unit Cost | AC Installation Cost |
---|---|---|
Central air conditioner |
$1,200โ$4,500 |
$1,200โ$2,200 |
Window AC unit |
$150โ$750 |
N/A* |
Ductless mini-split |
$1,000โ$5,500 |
$500โ$2,000 |
Geothermal |
$3,000โ$6,000 |
$10,000โ$30,000 |
Dual fuel |
$2,800โ$5,500 |
$1,300โ$2,500 |
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*You can typically install window AC units on your own.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Air Conditioners?
Air conditioner costs have various factors to consider while you shop. We recommend not basing your decision solely on price. Speak to an HVAC expert who can advise you on unit type, specific models, and installation details. Here are a few things that go into the cost of AC units:
Getting the right size air conditioner to cool your home is important, even though the larger sizes can be costly. If you purchase a smaller unit than you need, it will have to work harder to cool your space, and you could end up spending way more on energy and maintenance. Speak to a professional before purchasing if youโre not sure what size you need.
Reading reviews from other homeowners on top air conditioning brands is a great way to ensure the more trustworthy system. You should also read reviews about the HVAC contractor that you hire for the installation to be sure theyโre licensed and reputable.
Hiring an HVAC technician can be pricey depending on the complexity of the job and how long it takes. However, this is a required cost unless youโre simply purchasing a window unit, since professional help is necessary for most AC units. Many contractors offer free consultations, so it doesnโt hurt to reach out.
The SEER rating refers to how much energy is needed for cooling output. The higher the ratio, the more efficiently the unit will perform, lowering your energy bills. Typical numbers to look for during your purchase fall between 14 and 24.
A good way to lower the cost of your air conditioning unit is by claiming tax credits or rebates on certified energy-saving equipment by Energy Star. Energy Star is a partner to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that encourages eco-friendly and energy efficient manufacturing.
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What Are Common Air Conditioner Repair Costs?
If your air conditioning system breaks down, youโll need to hire an HVAC expert to fix the problem. Many home warranty plans cover HVAC repairs, so you could check your contract and call your provider to schedule a service call. But, if you donโt have a home warranty, finding a technician near you may be difficult.
If youโre located in Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, or Washington D.C., you could reach out to Michael & Son for help. Otherwise, you can enter your ZIP code into the tool on this page to find a local contractor. Here are a few issues to look out for with your air conditioner and their associated estimated repair costs:
Common Repair | Average cost |
---|---|
Leak |
$200โ$1,300 |
Drainage problems |
$100โ$150 |
Compressor replacement |
$600โ$1,200 |
Frozen condenser coils |
$250โ$1,000 |
Fan or air blower issues |
$450โ$650 |
Clogged air filter |
$75โ$180 |
Electrical circuits |
$100โ$150 |
Thermostat |
$100โ$250 |
FAQs About Air Conditioner Costs
Can I install my own air conditioner?
Installing air conditioning units almost always requiresย hiring an HVAC contractor, since the wiring, tubing, and piping can be complex. They can also include dangerous chemicals that should not be spilled. However, if youโre just purchasing aย window AC unit, you can install it in your window without an HVAC expert in most cases.
Which air conditioner is the most efficient?
Heat pumps can offer the most efficient way to heat and cool your home by using external sources such as air, water, or temperatures in the ground. Many residents that go this direction for their air conditioning save substantial amounts on their electricity or natural gas energy bills. Dual fuel or geothermal heat pumps are two options to consider.
Whatโs the difference between an air conditioner and a heat pump?
A heat pump is a type of air conditioner and heating system that can provide both hot air and cool throughout your house. Itโs similar to a central air conditioning unit in that it typically uses ductwork in your home to distribute the air. Speaking to an HVAC professional can always help you determine what would be the best fit for your house.
What is the electric cost to run an air conditioner daily?
The daily energy cost of your air conditioner can vary depending on the size, power needed to cool your house, and desired temperatures. Through our research, we found that air conditioners usually cost about $2โ$5 per day. Different types of air conditioners require less energy, so shop around for the best one to fit your budget.
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