subject: Choosing and Buying Central Air Conditioner [print this page] Choosing and Buying Central Air Conditioner
A grossly undersized air conditioner just can't keep up on those genuinely hot days. Oversized units can be even worse, however, because they cool in abbreviated, energy-saving bursts, then turn off. During which, the interior humidity level rises and the air begins to feel clammy. Properly conditioned summer air, remember, is drier, as well as much cooler. If that compact or window air conditioner unit just isn't keeping up with your cooling needs, a central air conditioning system is the answer. How hefty of an unit depends on the size and design of your home.
When a contractor figures out what your home's heat gains are, an installer will check the furnace blower and ducting to determine if they can handle the heavier cooled air. While the plenum is being inspected, you should ask if it can be changed easily to accept an electronic air cleaner, a power humidifier, or even both. Even if you can't afford these items now, allowing for them will save on installation costs at a later time.
You also should consider installing a zoned system. Such a system could save on energy costs by keeping daytime temperatures higher in empty bedrooms.
Two-speed condensing units offer another way to lower operating costs, matching a setup's capacity to its needs. Lights on the thermostat let you know whether a two-speed unit is running at high or low speed, giving you a chance to raise the temperature setting and reduce demand when you choose.
Natural-gas-powered setups are also available. Installation costs will be greater than for an electric air-conditioner, but you may recover the difference, and more, in lower operating costs, less maintenance, and longer life. This depends on your energy costs.
Finally, don't be surprised to find a wide range of prices for equipment with similar Btu capacities. Quality differences account for most of this variance. Some components are guaranteed for five years, other for ten.
So how much will a quality air conditioner setup cost, installed? Local prices will of course vary a great deal but assuming a 1500 square foot house, 15 years old with all ductwork in place, expect to pay between $1500 to $2000 to replace an old 3-ton air conditioner with a new energy efficient SEER 10 system. If you currently have no air conditioning unit in place, expect to pay between $5000 to $7000 for a complete system including the ductwork. Not cheap by any means but in certain areas, it is a necessary expence.
