Cost To Replace Your Home's Air Conditioner in Minnesota
Is your air conditioner struggling to beat the Minnesota heat? If you're considering a replacement, one of the first questions on your mind is likely related to cost. In Minnesota, replacing an air conditioner can vary significantly in price, ranging from $4,500 to over $12,000, influenced by several critical factors.
Here's what plays a decisive role in determining the costs:
Continue reading as we delve into these factors to give you a clearer picture of what to expect when you decide to replace your air conditioner, helping you make a well-informed decision tailored to your needs and budget.
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Size and Capacity of the AC Unit
The cost of a new AC unit varies depending on its size or capacity, measured in tonnage. Generally, you need about one ton of cooling for every 400 to 500 square feet. However, this amount can change depending on the following factors:
- Number of household members: If your household has several family members, you'll need stronger cooling capabilities.
- Insulation levels: Proper insulation prevents cool air from leaking. If your home isn't insulated well, you'll need a stronger AC to combat leakage.
- Geographic location: Warmer areas require larger air conditioners.
It's important to carefully assess these factors to determine the best air conditioner size. The larger your AC is, the more it will cost.
Efficiency Ratings
Another factor impacting costs is energy efficiency. As you might have guessed, highly efficient air conditioners are also more expensive. However, in exchange for the increased cost, you'll experience improved cooling and performance.
So, how efficient should your AC unit be? All air conditioners come with a SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating, which measures their efficiency over a cooling season. In Minnesota, the minimum recommended SEER rating is 14. However, your unit should have a SEER rating of 17 or higher if you want to maximize your comfort.
Ducted vs. Ductless AC
The next factor to consider is the type of air conditioner you want. Most homeowners choose between two main types: traditional ducted systems and ductless mini-splits. In ducted systems, cold air is distributed throughout the entire home using ductwork. Ductless mini-splits, meanwhile, use individual units to cool different zones of the home.
Generally, ducted air conditioners are less expensive than ductless varieties. However, they're also less energy-efficient and more difficult to install. If you don't already have existing ductwork, you'll need to renovate your home first. In these cases, ductless AC units may actually be more cost-effective.
Installation Complexity and Upgrades
Once you've determined the type of air conditioner you want, the next step is installing it. First, the HVAC technicians will check your home for anything that might complicate the installation. For example, if you have old, leaky ducts, they must be repaired or replaced first. In addition to installation complexity, they'll consider any upgrades you'd like to incorporate. Here are a few common upgrades:
- Smart thermostats: A smart thermostat lets you conveniently control the temperature through your mobile device.
- Zoned temperature control: Through zoning, you can enjoy different temperatures in various areas of the home.
- Increased air filtration: Most modern air conditioners come equipped with air filtration systems. However, you can supplement these systems with air purifiers or humidifiers if you'd like additional protection.
Incorporating upgrades may increase the cost of air conditioners.
The HVAC Contractor You Hire
Lastly, the HVAC contractor you hire influences the total cost. While you don't want to overpay for services, you don't want to work with a low-quality, inexperienced AC installer. Extremely cheap contractors may fail to properly install the air conditioner, or they might charge for repeat labor.
Ultimately, your HVAC contractor must deliver high-quality work for the price. At MSP Plumbing Heating Air, we have over 100 years of experience in AC replacements. We pride ourselves on getting the job done right the first time, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee with every project. When you work with us, you can rest assured that you're getting the best air conditioning service possible.
Contact our AC installation experts today!
If you need first-rate AC installation services in Minnesota, we've got you covered. Our team is committed to outstanding service, which has resulted in over 1,000 5-star reviews. Whether you're looking for a ducted AC, a ductless system, or just some advice, we're here to help.