How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Central Air Conditioning Unit?

Do you need to replace a central air conditioning unit? Here’s how much it costs for new central air.

The bad news: You need to replace a central air conditioning unit.

The good news: Your new air conditioner will most likely be more energy-efficient, quieter, and function at prime condition for over a decade. This year’s purchase will work hard for your family, for 15 years on average, keeping you cool, maintaining healthy air quality, and regulating temperature. Work with a professional on the ac installation, and you’ll also enjoy the comfort of reliable service and a warranty — in addition to ensuring a safely-operating unit.

If your central ac is broken, you may be feeling overwhelmed and stressed out (not to mention, hot). It’s a big investment to replace a central air conditioning unit, and yes, the cost of central ac is greater than an in-window unit or portable air conditioner. Luckily, when installed correctly by professionals, replacing a central air conditioning unit is one of the best financial investments you can make for your home. New models are much more efficient than outdated air conditioners, which means that when you replace your old ac, you’re taking clear steps toward a reduced energy bill, and reducing your carbon footprint. In this article, we’ll break down the costs, and what you can expect throughout the purchasing and installation process.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace A Central Air Conditioning Unit?

The cost of a new central air conditioning unit can vary greatly depending on many factors, including where you’re located in the country, the type of model you get, and the cost of central air installation.

On average, consumers can expect to pay anywhere between $1,500 and $4,000 for a new central ac unit. Keep in mind: Those prices are for the actual AC unit. Models that are highly energy-efficient will cost more up-front, but can save you thousands over the years in reduced energy bill costs. It’s also worth seeking rebates from the manufacturer, and shopping during the off-season (more on that in a moment). If central air conditioning prices are out of reach for your budget, consider an in-window unit, instead. Unlike the dinosaurs of yesteryear, new models are quiet and hard-working. However, unlike central air, an in-window unit must be removed and reinstalled every year.

If you need to replace a central air conditioning unit, you will also have to budget for the cost of consultation and installation — this means you are paying for the knowledge and expertise of HVAC professionals. Before purchasing, an air conditioner contractor will talk you through the options available to you, and help you determine which is ideal. Although it can be tempting to “DIY” your central air conditioning installation, this is not a good idea! Licensed professionals will get the job done correctly and, more importantly, safely. Plus, when you use a trusted HVAC company to replace your central air unit, you can count on friendly service and maintenance, should anything go wrong down the line. An air conditioner under warranty is peace of mind for you.

After the purchase of a new ac unit, the national average for central air installation costs, on average, between $3,500 and $7,500. Remember that a trustworthy company will be honest and upfront about all costs, so you aren’t surprised by an enormous bill after the work is done. An entirely ductless system installation is more complicated, and can cost closer to $10,000, depending on the scope of the project and size of the building or home.

When Is the Best Time to Replace A Central Air Conditioning Unit?

If your AC breaks in the middle of a heatwave, you probably don’t need any help figuring out when you should replace it (Answer: ASAP!). But if you’re looking to upgrade, and aren’t on a tight deadline, consider buying and installing your new unit in the fall and winter, when demand is lower. This may result in greater savings, and a stress-free experience for you. Not only are central air conditioner units frequently priced lower in the off-season, the labor costs involved may be lower. It’s important to talk to your HVAC provider and ask questions about pricing, as well as any potential deals or discounts.

As with any major home project, two things will ensure a quality purchase that goes the distance. First, doing research and being aware of the options available to you will help you make the right decisions for your unique circumstance, preferences, and space. Second, always choosing friendly professionals committed to quality means you’ll be enjoying cool air for years to come, without any problems or safety issues.