As the temperatures continue to heat up, you may be considering making a major investment in your home. A central air conditioning system is expensive, but it could save you money down the line if this summer is unusually hot. To help you decide, here are some factors to consider if it’s time to upgrade to central AC and a few things to do before you make your decision.
Costs of Upgrading to Central Air Conditioning
Having central air conditioning installed in your home is an investment and one that can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the size of your home. Central air conditioning may be a worthwhile investment if your home is built to suit a central AC system, but if not, it can be too expensive and impractical. Get a few quotes from air conditioning services before you decide to install one. Make sure you know exactly what the cost of installation will be beforehand. You will also want to figure out how much your energy bill will cost with an AC system. It might be more than what you’re used to. Plan out the pros and cons when it comes to cost to see if it’s right for you and your family’s budget.
Your Energy Needs
Central air conditioning has a high energy demand, making your home much more expensive to heat and cool. In the past, the energy used for A/C was primarily generated by burning fossil fuels, but most homes use electricity these days. If you live in a rural area with a small electrical grid, your home will use a lot of energy from the central AC unit. However, if you live in a city, then there’s a good chance your surrounding neighbors have an AC system in their home and it works for them.
Maintenance Costs
Central air conditioning units are big, and even with a few years of service left, older HVAC systems can still be very costly to repair. A local contractor can do a spot check on your current system and give you an idea of the estimated price of repairs. The higher that figure, the more likely it is that it’s time to invest in a new system.
Age of Your Home
In the past, many homeowners installed remote HVAC units in their homes. However, failure rates on these units were high, so many buyers feel more comfortable with central air conditioning systems for a better warranty. With all the maintenance and costs associated with older HVAC systems, it’s best to upgrade your home as soon as possible. A company like Trane South can help you decide if it’s the right time to upgrade your home with new equipment.
Location of Your Central AC
Many homeowners prefer central air conditioning because it gives them more control over the temperature in their homes. But if your home is poorly insulated, you won’t want centralized HVAC in the living areas of your home. Central AC is out of the question if you have thermal issues with your home or live in a very windy area. You can discuss these issues with a local contractor to see how they may impact your investment decision.
Keeping your business or home cool during the summer can be expensive. Central air conditioning is an investment that could pay off in the long run if it keeps you from having a huge electric bill and keeping your employees cool and comfortable on hot days. If you’re considering central AC for your home or business, here’s what to consider before making your decision.
