When the summer heat hits Calgary, functioning air conditioners (ACs) are just a luxury. They also become a necessity. However, when our units fail, the sudden costs would be as uncomfortable as Calgary’s temperature.
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AC Installation Cost
What is the general cost to set up an AC? This is among the first questions that Calgary homeowners ask when they decide to set up a new unit in their homes. On average, the cost to install AC in Calgary ranges between $3,500 and $7,500, based on the type of the system.
Factors Determining the Cost
Several factors affect the overall AC installation costs for many homes in Calgary. These factors are not limited to the following:
1. Installation Complexity
The installation complexity affects the cost of AC. More complex tasks translate into more labour and time, not to mention higher price tags.
For instance, installing split AC units in internal walls is more complicated than setting them in external ones. This doesn’t just impact the labour and time involved. It also increases the number of additional parts and materials required to make the entire unit functional.
2. AC Type
Air conditioners come in different energy-efficient ratings, shapes, cooling capabilities, and sizes. So, choosing central units or split systems can significantly impact the cost. It will include professional installation fees, electrical connection expenses, and air condition prices.
3. Equipment Size and Cooling Capacity
As far as choosing the unit’s size is concerned, bigger ones are not always better. What matters the most when choosing the right system goes beyond the unit’s physical size. Primarily, AC size refers to cooling capability.
The bigger the unit, the higher the cost because of insufficient cooling capacity for the space. An undersized unit with a smaller cooling capacity may run constantly, leading to increased monthly utility bills and ineffective cooling.
4. Ductwork Condition
When calculating the costs, remember to consider your ductwork’s condition. Its conditions significantly affect both the overall cost and the unit’s efficiency. Here is what you should keep a closer eye on:
- Installation quality
- Maintenance and cleanliness
- Duct leaks
- Duct layout and size
5. SEER (Energy Efficiency)
The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) refers to the total removed heat from a particular space during the cooling season, then divided by the energy consumed.
A high ratio means a higher energy efficiency level. Usually, units with a high ratio are more efficient. However, they cost a lot. Keep in mind that energy-efficient units are likely to save you cash on energy expenses.
6. Season
Seasonal aspects play an important role in calculating the installation costs of AC. As the temperature changes, the demand for these units increases.
This, in turn, affects the system’s availability and pricing. Understanding those seasonal trends will help you well and minimize the costs of setting up the unit.
7. Controls & Zones
Zones and controls affect the installation costs. Why? Because the interior structures, which require multiple-zone units, consist of space that requires a different form of system in different rooms. For a bigger home, variable cooling can be helpful and may require more cooling power in different rooms.
The bottom line is that understanding all these factors is important for making a good decision. Whether you want to set up a new unit for the first or replace the existing one, don’t just consider factors such as energy efficiency. Consider also factors, like ductwork condition, units’ size, and type of the system.