HVAC Lexington is a necessity in most homes. However, installing a new AC unit can be an expensive process. Several factors contribute to the cost of AC installation. These include the size of the home, energy efficiency, brand, and who’s purchasing the unit.
AC installation involves working with electrical components and refrigerant, which can be hazardous if incorrectly handled. Professional installers have the expertise to ensure safety measures are followed, minimizing risks of accidents or injury.
The cost of a new air conditioning system depends on several factors, including the size of your home and the type of unit you choose. The bigger your home, the more expensive it will be to cool. Additionally, you may need to install new ductwork, which will increase the installation costs. In addition to the price of an air conditioner, you will also need to pay for labor and disposal fees.
The square footage of your home determines which air conditioner will be the best fit, but a professional technician will also take into account other factors such as your lifestyle and energy efficiency goals. A professional can help you find the perfect AC unit for your needs without overpaying.
Air conditioners are rated according to their SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The higher the SEER, the more energy efficient it is. Typically, units with a SEER rating above 13 will have lower running costs. You should prioritize a high SEER rating, especially if you live in a hotter climate where you use your air conditioner more often.
If you’re planning to replace your old air conditioning unit, you’ll need to consider the size of your home and whether or not you have existing ductwork. If you don’t, you will need to add new ducts, which can cost up to $7,500 for 300 linear feet of ducting.
You should also factor in any additional costs such as electrical work, insulation and mold testing. It’s important to get multiple estimates from qualified contractors and ask lots of questions. Then, you can make an informed decision about which AC system is right for you.
While you can do some DIY AC installations, this is only appropriate for small wall or window units or ductless systems. Larger or permanent window units should always be installed by a licensed professional. This is because installing a central air system requires extensive electrical and ductwork connections. It’s also a dangerous job that involves heavy lifting, accessing crawlspaces, climbing on the roof and pouring concrete. In addition, most areas require a license, permit, and EPA certification for HVAC technicians.
Air conditioning used to be considered a luxury, but now it’s an essential part of every home. Its benefits include improved health, productivity, and energy levels, as well as higher property values. It also helps keep humidity and mold at bay, which can damage wooden floors and furniture.
The best time to install an AC unit is in the spring when temperatures are mild. During this time, it’s easier for HVAC professionals to work on the outside and inside units. Additionally, this is before the busy summer season, when many people schedule AC installation.
In addition, an air conditioner with a high SEER rating can save you money on your utility bills. These models typically cost more upfront, but they will pay for themselves over the long term by using less energy to cool your home. You should choose an air conditioner with a SEER rating of at least 15 to experience maximum savings.
A good AC installer can help you choose the right model for your home. They can also advise you on how to maintain your system to keep it working efficiently. They can also recommend ductwork and electrical upgrades that will help improve your home’s cooling efficiency.
Another benefit of AC installation is that it keeps your house at a comfortable temperature throughout the day. It’s important to have a cool environment because excessive heat can lead to dehydration, headaches, and other problems. It can even cause mental impairments.
Air conditioning can make it easier to sleep comfortably at night. This will help you wake up rested and ready to tackle your daily tasks. It will also prevent your sleep from being disrupted by hot temperatures.
Air conditioners can also protect your valuable electronic devices from overheating. They can lower the temperature of your living room or bedroom, which will prolong the life of your computer, television, and other electronics. However, it’s important to note that a faulty AC can be a fire hazard, so it’s important to have regular maintenance to ensure safety. A reputable technician will be able to spot minor issues and fix them quickly, reducing your risk of a fire.
If your home’s AC unit is starting to show signs of aging or is not providing adequate cooling, it may be time to replace it. Having a new air conditioner can increase your comfort and reduce your energy bills. However, it’s important to understand the process involved in AC installation before deciding to do it yourself or hire a contractor to complete the job.
The first step of installing a new air conditioning system is to determine the type and size of the unit that you need. This will impact the price and efficiency. In addition, you should choose a brand that is reputable and offers warranties on their products. You should also consider the SEER rating, as this will have a direct impact on your energy costs.
Once you have selected a system, the next step is to prepare the area for the installation. This includes removing any obstructions, such as trees and shrubs, that might get in the way of the equipment. It also involves laying the necessary pipes for refrigerant and water connections. You should also make sure that the unit can be easily accessed by the installers. This is especially important if the evaporator coil is located in a restricted space, such as a closet or basement.
The final step of installing an AC is making the electrical connections. This includes connecting wiring between the indoor and outdoor units and installing protective devices, such as circuit breakers. You should also check for leaks in your ductwork, as these can affect the performance of your new system.
When hiring a company to do an AC installation, you should ensure that they are licensed and insured. In addition, they should be able to provide references from past customers. Having a reliable air conditioning company will help you save money and avoid costly repairs in the future.
Most HVAC companies will provide a free estimate on the cost of an AC system and help you navigate the permit process. This will make the process much easier for you, as the professional will handle all of the paperwork for you. Additionally, many HVAC companies offer maintenance plans for new systems, which will help you keep your air conditioner running efficiently over the years.
Regardless of whether you have new or old AC, there are some maintenance requirements that must be met. These include replacing the air filter, cleaning the evaporator coils yearly, and examining the refrigerant levels. You should also inspect the thermostat and make sure that it is connected to the electrical system and that it is set to the proper temperature. If you are not comfortable performing these tasks, you can always hire an experienced HVAC professional to do it for you.
You can save money on your energy bills and prevent costly repairs by doing routine maintenance of your air conditioning unit. It is best to do this in spring, before the hottest part of the year. In addition, the warmer weather makes it easier for contractors to work on both the indoor and outdoor units. They can also do a comprehensive inspection of your cooling infrastructure to identify any potential problems.
To perform the maintenance, first look for dirt, leaves, and other debris around the condenser unit. You should also trim back or clear the area of shrubs and flowers that can restrict the flow of air to the unit. Additionally, you should check that the drain channel is not clogged with debris or mold. You can also use a fin comb to straighten the cage of the air conditioner’s condensing unit, which often bends over time.
A clogged or dirty air filter can cause your AC to run inefficiently, which increases your energy costs. It is recommended to change your air filters every month or two. It is important to note that the higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the air filter will be. However, it will take more energy to pull the air through the filter, so you should balance your air quality concerns with your energy costs.
Leaky ducts account for a significant portion of HVAC-related energy loss. To detect leaks, you can hold a stick of incense near the air register and any duct connections. If the smoke blows around, it is a sign that there is a leak. Small cracks can be sealed using foil tape, while larger ones can be filled with duct mastic.