In many parts of Canada, air conditioners are not just a luxury, but a necessity during the summer months. Modern air conditioners are quieter, more powerful and more energy efficient than earlier models and they can offer greater value by helping lower energy bills every month. However, each step up the cooling ladder comes with a corresponding cost. If you are interested in a new air conditioning unit, it is good to know how to determine the costs of installing a new system. Here are some of the things that we at Airinmotion recommend that you look into before having your air conditioner installed.
Select the ideal air conditioner size
The first step in getting a new air conditioner unit installed is determining what size is appropriate for your premises. You do not want one without enough power to cool your home, and getting an air conditioner that is too big can be more costly and less comfortable. We can help you select a unit to suit your needs. AC units measure in tons, which refers to the amount of heat they can remove from a home in an hour. The larger your house, the more cooling powers you will need. For instance, if your house is 1,600 square-feet, a two-and-a-half unit will serve you well. However, many other variables factor into which size will work best in your home. A basement for example, is naturally cooler than first or second-floor rooms.
Hiring an AC contractor
Next, you will need to hire an HVAC contractor. Although it is possible to buy an air conditioner from a wholesaler and install it on your own, the level of skill required is substantial. We have certified technicians who can handle your AC installation safely. For homes that have never had central AC, an installation requires new breakers in your electrical panel, wires run through your foundation, new duct work linking to your existing HVAC system and the mounting of your unit on metal brackets or a concrete pad. You want to ensure correct completion of such a task, so avoid wasting time and potential injuries and ask our reputable professionals for a free quote on your system.
Earn tax credits for new AC units
In order to offset the cost of air conditioning, it is possible to find rebates or tax breaks from federal organizations. You can check the Energy Star website for current tax credit information. You may get discounts if you install a particularly high-efficiency system, but they are often limited in duration, so it is worth checking around before you hire a professional air conditioning company for your installation. Several factors can increase the cost of your air conditioner installation. For instance, if you need a new thermostat, or if the design of your house is such that substantial amounts of ductwork are required to link with your existing furnace, you will pay more than average. Air conditioning costs depend in large measure on whom you hire, what size system you need and your AC unit’s general efficiency. Our prices at Airinmotion are reasonable so do not hesitate to call us.