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Nowadays, air conditioning is already considered a necessity, especially for hotter areas during the summer months. When installing an AC system at home, there are two types of units you can choose from, a central air conditioning or a ductless split system. If your home already has ductwork, having central AC is the best choice.
So if you are ready to install an HVAC system that will help maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year, particularly during the summer months, a central AC system is the best option for you.
On the other hand, a ductless split system is an excellent choice for those whose homes currently don’t have ductwork and want to install HVAC systems in specific rooms. This option is also suitable for houses with a heating system already installed.
Central AC System
A central AC system requires space or a room wherein plumbing and electricity are available to operate the needed equipment. With the available ductwork, the system will pull air from various areas in the house, most likely the bigger rooms and then it will filter and cool the air before blowing it back into the rooms through the vents.
Since the system will collect air from the inside of the house, it would be best to switch the air filters every few months. Doing this will ensure that clean air flows into the home. In addition, it will also prevent the build-up of dust and allergens in the system.
Ductless Split System
On the other hand, a ductless split system uses a condenser and compressor units outdoors and an evaporator indoors. There are times that the indoor evaporators are used to heat the hose. So if you want more zones in your house to be kept cool, this system may be costly for you.
Although, ductless systems are faster and easier to install since ductwork doesn’t need to be put in place through the walls or the attic.
Difference Between The Cost
You might be wondering about how much a central ac installation cost. The final price for the project will depend on several factors, such as the size of your home, the type of your unit, the SEER rating and the brand you will be choosing, and local labour rates.
A central AC unit will also wear and tear like any other mechanical equipment. So if you are currently working with an older one, you may want to replace it with a more energy-efficient one to improve the air output, reduce the humidity and more.
In addition, if the unit is already showing signs of visible wear and tear, such as excessive noise and dust, even if you’ve already changed the filter, it’s finally time to update your AC system.
How To Save Money on AC Installation
It’s also worth noting that if you install a central AC system for the first time, you may have to shell out a little more than replacing an old one. But there are ways to save money on AC installation costs.
First, you can check for local and federal rebates for upgrading your AC system. You can also ask for tax breaks if they are available.
Second, you may wish to consider installing the unit when HVAC professionals are less busy. Contact them in the spring or fall when the demand is less. Or you can also ask them about seasonal discounts.
Third, you may want to opt for a ductless split system if you only want to keep a few rooms in the house cool at certain times.
Fourth, replacing old central AC units is essential to save on energy bills or costs.
Lastly, shop for the best deal for the best system. It’s okay to ask for more than one quote from more than one company so that you can check all available options. You can also ask the following questions:
- Is the company licensed and insured to install a cooling system?
- Which is the best option based on the size of the house, the family’s needs and the budget at hand? Is it a central air system or a ductless split system?
- What is the SEER rating of the AC unit?
- How many resources can be saved by installing the recommended AC system?
- Are there seasonal discounts available? Or any local or federal rates?
- What warranties or guarantees are being offered?
- What’s the cost of maintenance? How long can this system last?
There are more questions you can ask during an in-person consultation. Still, the list provided above can already give you a better picture of how much you may be spending on installing or replacing a central AC system at home.
So it goes without saying that you have to make an informed decision before getting a unit replaced or installed to ensure that you will be getting your money’s worth.
