What Are the Costs of HVAC Installation?
Some people like to think that their bodies have adapted to their region's weather patterns. Southerners like to believe the heat doesn't bother them, while Northerners say they're made for the cold. However, both high and low temperatures can prove dangerous to everyone if left unchecked.
COMPARE PRICESHVAC installation is key for avoiding health problems as a result of the weather in addition to improving your overall comfort level. Most homes come with them preinstalled for that very reason. If your building doesn't already have one, then you should consider searching for “HVAC installers near me”.
Here are some of the costs to install an HVAC system and the available options.
HVAC System Installation Options
Depending on the region and building, people tend to associate air conditioning with certain types of systems. In the south, it's much more common to find central AC installed in the attic space and throughout the house. Go up north to New York City, and you're more likely to find window units.
The type of system you install can affect your HVAC installation cost. It also depends on the size of the unit, the fuel used for heating, and the associated costs like installing new ductwork.
Heating and Cooling Split Systems
The most common type of HVAC system splits the heating and cooling between two main units. They contain an indoor and an outdoor unit.
The outside unit works as the cooling system, using refrigerant, compressors and coils, and a fan. A heater is installed inside and uses gas to heat the house. A fan or evaporator circulates the air.
Both units are controlled by a single thermostat, and some are also packaged with purifiers and humidifiers. The equipment is often the most affordable, but the required ductwork will cost extra.
COMPARE PRICESHybrid Split System
A hybrid split system works much like other split systems except that they mitigate energy costs through an electric heating system. Homeowners can switch between gas and electric power. While gas allows quicker heating, electric is quieter.
Like a normal split system, you will need to install ductwork, and a thermostat controls both units.
Duct-Free or Mini-Split System
As the name implies, a duct-free system doesn't use ducts to push cool or hot air throughout a building. Instead, individual HVAC units are installed in each room on the wall attached to an outdoor compressor.
While this system allows for more control in each room, its installation also has a higher upfront cost. It can help to save money over time by limiting which rooms are cooled or heated, though.
Packaged Heating and Air
This HVAC system has both a heating and air unit installed within the house. Although the heating system isn't as powerful as other options, the unit is much more compact. They're also more easily maintained, which means they're less likely to break down.
What Does Commercial HVAC Installation Include?
People who started off with an apartment are well associated with the window AC unit. You take it out of the box, stick it in the window, fasten the side panels, and turn it on.
HVAC system installation has a lot more steps and a lot more equipment. In some cases, it may require the installer to perform some minor renovations to your building.
System and Ductwork Installation
The most important part of any HVAC system installation is getting the main units installed. Replacing your system can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000 depending on what you purchase. This may include a central air conditioning unit and a gas furnace.
Assuming you already have good ductwork installed, the entire process should only take about a day. However, most contractors will recommend that you get new ductwork installed as well.
Installing new ductwork tends to be time-consuming and challenging. As such, getting an entirely new system installed can take up to a week and can cost as much as $12,000.
On the plus side, you can expect your AC to work much more efficiently afterward.
COMPARE PRICESTypes of Ductwork
The different types of ductwork material all bring their own benefits.
Most commonly, you'll find ductwork made out of sheet metal. It has smooth walls that are easy to clean, but they aren't well insulated and can gather dust.
Fiberglass duct board is the priciest, but it's easy to size and shape. It's also pre-insulated.
The most affordable option is flexible non-metallic ductwork. While this type is lightweight and easier to work with, it's the most fragile option.
Air Handler
Homeowners may have the option to install an air handler alongside their HVAC system. An air handler helps to move both cool and heated air throughout your home. If installed with an AC unit, it can house the indoor coil.
Thermostat
The thermostat is the most affordable part of the whole package, and you can always install a new one later on. Try to find a smart thermostat that allows you to set a schedule. It'll help you save money and manage the indoor temperatures better.
Overall Price
The cost to have a complete installation of your new HVAC system and ductwork can cost between $6,500 and $12,750. That price can fluctuate depending on if your space needs any extra work.
Costs to Maintain an HVAC System
When looking into HVAC installation, don't forget to consider the cost to maintain it. Taking good care of your system is the best way to avoid it breaking down and needing to replace it sooner.
Well-maintained systems can last as long as 15 years. You should get it checked by a professional at least once a year to make sure everything is working well. It's much more affordable to get replacement parts than to buy a whole new unit.
If you want to improve your indoor air quality and your HVAC system's performance, air cleaners and filters can help. All systems come with filters, but you'll need to replace them every month or two.
Save Money on Your New HVAC System
HVAC installation is a requirement in areas with more extreme temperatures, especially in the hottest and coldest months. Even if you think you can handle the weather, your building's interior will suffer. Mold will form in high humidity, and pipes can freeze in low temperatures.
Cost Cutz can help you compare prices to get more affordable services. You can find any home pro you need from roof repairmen to HVAC installers.
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