Keeping your Tampa-area home or business cool and comfortable is not just a nice-to-have… here, it’s a necessity. Our HVAC systems work hard in Florida, and because of that, their lifespan is not quite as long as in other parts of the U.S. where you might get close to 20 years out of a system if you’re lucky (and you stay on top of maintenance).
As your air conditioner begins to near the 10 –12-year mark, you’re going to want to start planning for the next one if you’re a Hudson property owner.
How Much Does a New AC Cost?
The cost of a new air conditioner will vary depending on the size of the unit you need, the state of your existing system (and if any modifications need to be made), personal preferences, and other factors. Typically, the cost of an AC installation correlates with the size of a home or business. AC units for larger properties cost more than those with less square footage.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay around $5,000-$8,000 for a new air conditioner. That said, it’s not uncommon to see units costing more than $10,000-$12,000 either. The total cost of your system replacement will depend on several factors, which we’ll discuss below.
How are AC Costs Determined?
There are several factors that go into determining the cost of a new central air conditioning system.
- Capacity (a.k.a. the size of your air conditioner) - It’s very important that your AC system is sized correctly for your home. If it’s too big, it may cycle on and off too much and not effectively cool or remove moisture. If it’s too small, you’ll run into similar issues. To get the size “just right” for your property, your HVAC technician will conduct a load calculation to evaluate not just the size of your home, but also assess how your windows, doors and ceiling height affect your home’s heating and cooling process. Once you’ve identified the appropriate capacity, you can then zero in on specific equipment. Larger capacity units are more expensive than smaller units.
- SEER rating (a.k.a. the system’s efficiency) - A system’s seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) affects the price of an AC. A system with a higher SEER rating will cost more upfront, but its ongoing operating costs will be lower as it should be a more efficient system. New air conditioners will have a minimum SEER rating of 13.
- Existing modifications - In addition to replacing your air conditioner, other modifications may be needed to ensure your system operates most efficiently. Some owners also choose to replace their furnace or air handler at the same time, so their equipment matches in terms of functionality and their options don’t become limited. Likewise, you may also need to make changes to your ductwork if it’s not sized correctly for your new system’s airflow requirements.
- Brand, installation costs, labor, and permitting fees - Then there are some umbrella costs that also can cause wide variations in price. The specific brand of an AC unit will impact costs, as will labor expenses and permitting fees.
Before you select an HVAC contractor for your AC replacement, be sure to seek out at least three bids. HVAC installation requires professional expertise, but it should also be done at a competitive price. For superior service and honest advice throughout Hudson, FL and the surrounding area, turn to us at Mario’s Air Conditioning and Heating. We recognize that new AC installations can be a big financial undertaking. We offer financing options on approved credit for those who qualify. Contact us to learn more.
