By Maddie Evan
There are several factors that influence the cost of installing air conditioning in a home. First, you should know the current unit prices before negotiating with a contractor. Next, you should know the labor costs and whether there are any tax breaks for installing a new system. You should also check whether the contractor includes the labor in the estimated price. Also, keep in mind that some local utilities offer rebates on multiple types of HVAC systems.
Estimates based on current unit costs
Installing a new air conditioning system is not cheap. While the costs for a typical 2-ton unit range from $3,300 to $3,700, a higher-end system can be as high as $11,000, depending on the size and brand of the unit. To get a more accurate estimate, consult a contractor and ask about possible government rebates and incentives.
The cost of a new HVAC system varies, but the national average is around $7,000 per unit. It costs about $25 to $60 per square foot, depending on the size and efficiency of the unit. Ductwork replacement costs vary widely, too, with specialty inducts costing more than standard ductwork. New installation costs for two-pipe office buildings and recreational buildings range from $17 to $22 per square foot.
The labor required to install a new air conditioning system is another cost factor. While the installation process can take as little as one day, labor costs for AC repair and installation installation typically range between $500 and $2,500.
Labor costs
Labor costs to install air conditioning can vary greatly, depending on the size and type of system. A typical 3-ton split system with a 16 SEER rating can cost around $5,000 to $12,000, while a more expensive 21-SEER system can cost up to $15,000 or more. Costs for new ductwork can add up as well.
HVAC work is a complicated field, with many disciplines. It is advisable to get a home energy assessment before hiring a contractor. While it might cost $250 to $2000, it will prevent you from unforeseen setbacks. For example, older homes often lack ductwork, which can add as much as $200 to $300 to the total cost.
Labor costs to install air conditioning start at around $6,718 per unit. This includes all necessary equipment and supplies, as well as preparing the worksite. You should also expect to pay minimum hourly rates and a general contractor’s overhead. Sales tax can also increase the overall cost of the project.
Tax breaks
The federal government offers several tax breaks to homeowners who install certain energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. The incentives are called tax credits, and they have been renewed several times since 2006. The program was originally set to expire on December 31, 2020, but it was extended for one more year. However, there is no guarantee that it will be renewed past 2021. In addition, the amount of qualifying energy-efficiency tax credits has been reduced with each extension.
The tax credit can be as much as $300 on qualified HVAC systems. To be eligible, you must install the new HVAC equipment in your primary residence. The system must meet the Energy Star certification criteria. You must also be the owner of the property and not a renter. Otherwise, you will not qualify for the tax credit.
In addition, you can claim a credit for up to 30% of the cost of the air conditioning system. However, it is important to remember that the credit only applies to new HVAC systems. To qualify, the system must have a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio of 16 or higher.
Ductwork costs
When installing a new air conditioning system, the cost of ductwork is an important consideration. The ductwork delivers air from the AC system and can lose efficiency over time. It may also need to be altered to fit the new AC system. A new ductwork installation can cost anywhere from $2,100 to $4,000 and may require several days of labor.
A typical home has about 150 linear feet of ductwork. The ductwork installation cost for a 1,000 to 2,500 square foot house is around $1,500 to $3,000. A 2,000 to 3,500 square foot home can have 250 linear feet of ductwork and cost up to $5,500 to $7,500. A 3,000 to 4,000-square-foot home may require between 350 and 400 linear feet of ductwork.
Costs are also affected by the type of ducts and how complex they are. In general, flexible ducts are less expensive than sheet metal ducts. Sheet metal ducts installed in walls are more expensive. Most ductwork projects require a combination of different types, and the larger the house, the more ductwork will need to be installed.
Air Conditioning Group is a leading provider of HVAC solutions in New Zealand. With a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, they offer a wide range of products and services to meet your needs.
Customers rave about the exceptional service from Weather Masters HVAC in Kennesaw, GA, known for their timely response, skilled technicians, and long-lasting results in heating and air conditioning.
