As we progress into spring, temperatures vary a bit, but overall we are beginning to enjoy the steady, cool temperatures we love so much in California. Soon enough, however, it will grow hot enough that we’ll need to use our cooling systems on a daily basis. Is your system ready?
When the heat and subsequent humidity hit, you understandably want the peace of mind that your cooling system will be able to take on whatever comes its way. If last year you realized that your system is probably ready for an upgrade, now is the time to consider scheduling your AC replacement.
But What Will This Cost You?
The short answer to this question, honestly, is that it depends on a number of factors. For example, if you have a ductless system installed, it could cost more than a central air conditioner installation due to various complexities. However, if you don’t already have air ducts in your home, then this adds cost to the installation of a central unit.
The expert technicians on our team are ready and willing to help you determine what type of cooling system is the best match for your specific home and needs. But no matter what you decide on, there are a number of factors that go into the cost of the system.
Consider System Efficiency
This is one of the biggest contributors to the cost of your air conditioner installation. Your cooling system comes with a SEER rating. This stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is a measurement of the level of efficiency your system has. The lowest SEER on the market today is 14, while the highest is 20. Understandably, the highest-rated systems will run the best, but you’ll want to make sure your AC system fits your comfort needs as well as your budget.
Do You Already Have Air Ducts?
If there’s already a central furnace in your home, or if you are replacing an outdated central air conditioning system, then you’d have to have air ducts already in place. What is their condition, however? Was your ductwork installed by professionals? Have the ducts accrued any damage or loose connections over the years? If conditioned air escapes through damaged ductwork, then your central AC can’t possibly perform efficiently, no matter how high of a SEER rating it has. Your ductwork will need to be repaired along with your installation, adding to the cost of the installation.
How Large Is Your Living Space?
You’ll need to ensure that the AC system you’re having installed is adequately sized for your home. If your cooling system is not large enough, then it cannot effectively cool your living space. But what if it is too large? Then it will turn on and off rapidly—an inefficient process known as short-cycling. Don’t let an amateur handyman try to convince you to go as big as your budget allows, as this can be an expensive mistake.
What About Community Rebates?
Oftentimes, communities and municipalities reimburse homeowners if they install high-efficiency systems and appliances, since the reduced energy that results from such installations helps the environment overall. We are huge proponents of the PACE and HERO programs—contact our team for more information today!
Contact Comfy Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. today for your Pleasanton, CA air conditioning services!