Most of us don’t think about our HVAC systems very often, but they are a fixture of most homes in Georgia, keeping us comfortable on hot summer days and cold winter nights. Replacing your HVAC system can be costly, especially if you don’t choose the best time of year for your upgrade — but these five factors will help you determine if your quote is worth the price tag.
5 Factors to Consider in HVAC Pricing
Unit Type
There are a variety of heating and cooling systems on the market today. Your HVAC replacement cost will vary depending on which type of system you plan to install or replace. Popular HVAC replacements in Georgia include:
- Electric furnace
- Gas furnace
- Oil furnace
- Ductless split air conditioner
- Central air conditioner
- Heat pump
Unit Size
Your HVAC replacement cost will also depend on the size of your unit. HVAC unit sizing is measured in tons or BTUs. Your local HVAC technician will provide you with a quote based on the cubic square footage of your home. You should also consider the energy efficiency of your windows and the quality of your insulation. A home with well-sealed, energy-efficient windows and ample insulation may influence the HVAC unit size you need.
If you require a unit with higher tonnage to heat and cool your home efficiently, your cost will rise accordingly. However, it’s important to select the right unit size to save on monthly energy bills and keep you comfortable for years to come.
Replacing your HVAC unit can cost as little as $4,000 or upwards of $15,000. Most homeowners pay $8,000 on average.
Efficiency Rating
Today, all HVAC units receive an efficiency rating, also known as a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. Units with a higher SEER rating will come with a higher initial price tag, but their energy efficiency will save you money on total energy costs over time. New HVAC units are required to meet a minimum 14 SEER rating. Some energy-efficient brands offer units with ratings up to 25.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “The most efficient air conditioners use 30% to 50% less energy to produce the same amount of cooling as air conditioners made in the mid-1970s. Even if your air conditioner is only 10 years old, you may save 20% to 40% of your cooling energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.”
Local Climate
Your HVAC needs largely depend on where you live. People in colder climates need units with large heating capacities to keep the indoors nice and warm when freezing temperatures strike. In warm climates, homes need a cooling system that can keep them comfortable on hot days with high humidity.
Homeowners in and around Metro Atlanta should consider the climate in Georgia when purchasing or replacing an HVAC system. Turn to local professionals to gather multiple quotes for your HVAC replacement.
Installation and Labor Costs
An HVAC unit is only as good as the technician installing it, so don’t trust your AC replacement to just anyone. Labor costs for your heating and cooling services will depend on the size of your home and the complexity of the installation itself.
If you’re replacing your entire HVAC system, you may also need to factor in additional costs like:
- Ductwork
- Plumbing work
- Electrical work
- Vents and returns
If your old HVAC unit is faulty, inefficient, or damaged, replacing or upgrading these components can keep your new HVAC running with seamless efficiency.
A Local HVAC Replacement Pro You Can Trust
By putting these five factors together, you can create your HVAC replacement cost estimator. Talk with a trusted HVAC company to help you determine the right heating and cooling unit for your home.
Comfort Solutions Heating and Cooling is the people-first HVAC company offering installation, repair, and maintenance to northwest Georgia and Metro Atlanta. From preventative maintenance to comprehensive heating and cooling services, we’re here to help you stay comfortable at home, no matter the weather.
We know that HVAC replacement can be expensive. That’s why we provide top-quality solutions for better total value than any local competitor. We’ve also teamed up with Synchrony Financial and KwikComfort Financing to provide quality financing options that help you purchase the HVAC solution you need today.
Ready to upgrade your HVAC unit? Schedule a free estimate today!