When comparing different air conditioning units, you may notice a wide variation in prices. There are many reasons why, as various factors can swing the price up or down by thousands of dollars. How do you make sure you understand air conditioner prices – what makes a quality unit and how do you get the best deal?

Some of the main factors that directly impact the price of different models, and may influence which one you choose include: the size of the unit, its initial cost, and how much it will cost to operate on a monthly basis.

A quality unit will cost more initially, but save you more in the long run because it is more energy efficient. But that's only the beginning. HVAC units are highly durable and can last for more than two decades. This is where you can see the benefits of the field's advancing technology: the higher initial cost of an energy-efficient air conditioner will be more than offset by the long-term savings on your electrical bills. Finding a balance between long-term savings and initial cost can pose both a trouble and a challenge, although understanding all the factors involved will help you in your decision-making.

Apart from brand names, there are several other variables that play a key role in cost setting. There is a huge variety of air conditioners on the market: for example, some of the newer models can adjust a building's temperature through a cell phone app, while others possess features like multiple stages, allowing you to decide how strongly or efficiently your unit operates. Added benefits like these can bring a significant hike in the cost.

The efficiency of a unit is a major factor in its price: more efficient units tend to be higher-priced, but provide greater savings over the long run.

SEER’ing Heat: The Guide to Cool

Efficiency - The "efficiency" of an air conditioner refers to the quantity of energy being converted into cool air in comparison to the energy consumed. Efficiency is expressed using the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). A highly-rated SEER will result in lower utility costs to operate on a daily basis.

SEER ratings range from 13 to 23. Some older models may have a SEER rating below 13, but by law the minimum rating on newly manufactured air conditioners must be above 13.

Other Factors to Consider

Apart from an air conditioning unit's price, there are a variety of other factors to consider. First, your HVAC contractor needs to determine what size unit and which energy efficiency rating you need to purchase to effectively heat and cool your building.

One of the most accurate methods to find out the best rating to meet your needs is to use an “efficiency calculator.” In order to get the most accurate information, you should determine your local electricity costs (dollars/kilowatt hour) along with the initial price of the HVAC unit you're considering. The energy employed by the air conditioner per hour will define the units’ efficiency rating. Energy Star is the recommended efficiency calculator for advanced air conditioning technology.

Installation - The price of HVAC installation depends on your home's existing structure. Get estimates from more than one qualified contractor, as installation quotes can vary. If your home isn't already fitted for central air, the job will be more complex as the contractor will have to install ductwork and vents. This is just one of the reasons that installation costs can vary widely.

Bigger the House, Greater the Price

When it comes to size, accuracy matters. Bigger is not always better! The size of your house is the most obvious factor to take into consideration. When determining the appropriate size for your potential AC unit, your house's square footage is one of the most important variables. You also need to take into account the position and size of the windows, how much direct sun the structure gets, and how much insulation is already installed.

The number of inhabitants may also influence both the cooling and heating needs. A house with more inhabitants will naturally keep the house warmer, thanks to body heat, while a larger house with less people may require more of a boost from the heater. Electrical equipment and home appliances generate heat, and if a house if stuffed with hot lights or appliances that are often on working mode, then a strong air conditioner is even more crucial.
Quality contractors will calculate your home's cooling needs, including things like heat-gain and energy load calculations. This is the most reliable method to determine your HVAC needs because it takes into account almost every possible factor.

Experienced air conditioning contractors take everything into account, beginning with an overall survey of the house and checking all the variables, including issues that amateurs usually overlook.

With this information and the help of a reputable, certified HVAC contractor, you can choose the size and model HVAC unit that is right for your family and your home's needs.

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