What’s in this guide:
- Factors Influencing A/C Installation
- Selecting the Right Central AC System for Your Texas Home
- Tips for Saving Money on Central AC Installation
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- The Importance of Maintenance for Long-Term Cost Savings
Installing an air conditioning system in your home helps you stay cool and comfortable during the hot Texas summers. If you’re considering investing in a new system, it’s important to educate yourself on the various factors before installing a new AC unit.
Read on to discover the factors that affect the installation of central air systems in Texas and how to make the right choice for your home.
Factors Influencing A/C Installation
The cost of installing central air conditioning in your home depends on several factors, including the unit size, SEER rating, compressor type, brand, and additional features. Each of these factors affects the installation price.
1. Previous ductwork
The total cost of installing central AC in your Texas home will largely depend on whether you have existing ductwork — and the condition it’s in. The efficiency of central AC depends, in part, on adequate ductwork that’s tightly sealed against air leaks. Homes that have never had AC, but have had central heat, may also need new ductwork.
2. Unit size
AC unit size significantly affects the installation cost. Central AC units often range from 18,000 to 60,000 BTUs, with 12,000 needed to cool between 500 and 600 square feet of space. The larger your home, the more powerful of a unit you’ll require.
3. SEER rating
A central air system’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating reflects the unit’s energy efficiency. The higher the rating, the more costly the unit. Higher-rated units may be more expensive initially, but their energy efficiency can help you save on utility bills over time.
4. Compressor type
The compressor type affects the efficiency and price of central air conditioning units. A single-stage compressor is the least efficient and most affordable, a two-stage compressor is the median-priced option, and a variable-speed compressor is the most efficient and costly. A highly efficient compressor may be more expensive initially but can reduce energy bills in the long run.
5. Brand
The brand of AC unit you choose affects the price due to its reputation and quality. Higher-end brands such as American Standard, Carrier, Lennox, and Trane will have a higher price tag. You can save on lower-end brands such as Coleman, York, Goodman, and Rheem, but these savings may come at the cost of quality and reliability.
6. Labor
Due to the job’s complexity, a professional should install central AC systems. Labor costs will vary depending on the contractor you hire. Some technicians charge an hourly rate, while others offer a flat installation rate. Technicians typically complete most jobs within eight hours. However, homes without previous ductwork may take longer.
7. Permits
Depending on your home’s location in Texas, you may need a building permit when installing a central AC system.
8. Additional features
Adding features such as air purifiers, humidity control, smart features, and zoning systems to your central AC unit affects the total cost. These features can enhance the comfort of your Texas home.
Selecting the Right Central AC System for Your Texas Home
The system you select for your Texas home can impact your comfort year-round, so choosing the right one for your needs is essential. When selecting the AC system for your home, consider the following:
- The size of your home and the system needed
- The energy efficiency rating
- Any additional features you may want
If you’re unsure what system is right for your home, contact an expert at Frank’s Repair Plumbing. They’ll discuss your options and find the best system for your household.
Tips for Saving Money on Central AC Installation
There are several ways to save when it comes to your central AC installation. Follow these tips to make your installation more affordable:
- Choose an energy-efficient unit to keep your utility bills lower
- Install a unit during the off-season when contractors offer lower rates
- Keep an eye out for company incentives
- Research government rebates
- Explore financing options
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do your research before installing a new central AC system to avoid costly mistakes, such as choosing the incorrect unit size and hiring the wrong company.
Installing an oversized unit results in unnecessary up-front costs and higher energy bills. An undersized unit has to work harder to adequately cool your home, and you’ll have to pay the cost to replace your central air unit sooner.
Hiring an uncertified contractor with little experience in AC installations can significantly impact your wallet. Improperly installed systems won’t work correctly and must be re-installed, costing you double the labor fees. Many air conditioning units require a certified technician for installation, or the warranty won’t be valid.
The Importance of Maintenance for Long-Term Cost Savings
Keep up with annual AC maintenance to ensure everything is working correctly and extend the lifespan of your system. Most maintenance visits cost between $150 and $200 but can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs. Putting off maintenance may result in expensive repairs, breakdowns, or the need to replace your system.
During a maintenance visit, the technician inspects and cleans all parts, including the air filters, coils, drains, and refrigerant levels. They also perform necessary tune-ups and tests, including lubricating moving parts, checking electrical connections, looking for leaks, and testing the overall system performance.
Call Frank’s Repair Plumbing for AC Installation in Texas
With over 75 years of experience, you can trust Frank’s Repair Plumbing for your central AC installation in Texas. Our certified technicians have the training and expertise to get the job done right the first time. We’ll provide you with an honest and up-front quote so you’ll know the installation price before we start the job.
We understand a new HVAC system is a significant investment, so we offer flexible financing plans to fit your budget. Pay over time while experiencing the comfort of your central AC system today.
Our Diamond Club members receive discounted pricing on all services, no after-hours fees, free seasonal inspections, and priority scheduling.
Call us today to book your air conditioning services and discover why we’ve been voted the best in Amarillo for 17 years and counting.
