Need to install or repair a HVAC system? The costs will depend on a few factors: size of home dictates the size/price of the unit, is the ductwork in place and adequate, and cost of labor. Keep in mind, the total price of labor is a costly line item. Replacing ductwork increases your cost especially for hard to reach areas. Speaking with a certified HVAC technician can assist with choosing the best unit. Where you live can assist your purchase decision as well. Consider the cost of a residential HVAC system installation in Arlington, VA versus tha same size unit for a home in Phoenix, AZ. The climate of each region dictates the needs of its heating/cooling unit. Arizzona, being the warmer of the two, is maore likely to be the least expensive.
Read about the BTU(British Thermal Unit) needed for a unit you wish to heat and cool your home. Knowing the square foot of each room and overall size of your home will guide you to the correct type of HVAC system you should purchase.
Although the average cost for installation ranges between $3,757 and $7,277 (based on estimates from HomeAdvior’s website), the cost of installing an HVAC system can be considerably reduced. With the purchase of a Energy Star certified system and a SEER rating of 13 or more the return of such a purchase can be a head turner. The consideration of energy efficient units are recognized by the Environment of Protection Agency(EPA), the Department of Energy (DOE), and the federal government itself with the tax credits given to such a conscientious consumer. These credits can lower your costs considerably by as much as $1,000 if not more. There is an additional change in the cost of a residential HVAC system installation in Arlington versus Phoenix. Based on the state you reside in, your energy tax credit can have a major difference as well. In this case, check with your tax preparer for actual numbers. Pulling up the IRS website energy tax credit page should offer some answers. An alert buyer should also include the possibility of a manufacturer’s rebate that can easily go into a couple of $100s as a saving.
Although the utility bill is not a line item for the installation costs of an HVAC unit, it should be considered in the overall decision when choosing which system to purchase. A unit costing $1,000 more and saving $2,000 in utility bills per year is a better decision than a unit which will cost much more overtime in the heating and cooling of your living space. Add the rebates and/or tax credits for said unit that may cost more upfront and you have a better buy overall.
The warranty which will accompany your new system can be voided by uninformed decisions. Be sure to read the warranty in its entirety before you agree to any add-ons that were not introduced by the manufacturer. Definitely, for all warranties a state certified technician should be your guide for installation. Most warranties can be rescinded for this missing detail alone.
Take advantage of free estimates when calling around for an exceptional technician. At least 3 estimates with a generous conversation with each technician should yield a relationship lasting over the life of the unit itself. Choosing a technician or company that will provide yearly maintenance as well will satisfy most warranty included expectations and provide the unit’s owner with a relief of knowing beforehand if there are any serious issues with your unit.
A comfortable, relaxed home included.