How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost

If you ask yourself, “How much does an air conditioner cost?” you’ve come to the right place. This guide provides information on AC system pricing, including details about the types of units and costs.

Your home’s comfort during summer is made possible by air conditioners. A cooling system can be a great way to cool down in hot areas or deserts.

You can save money by replacing your old unit. According to Natural Resources Canada (NRC), modern air conditioners use 30%-40% less energy today than ten to fifteen years ago.

Let’s separate air conditioning costs by the cost of installation, maintenance, and energy bills. Prices can vary depending upon many factors, including location, home size, property details and other variables.

Types of air conditioners

There are many factors to consider when choosing an AC system. You may need a particular type for your home or prefer one over the other based on comfort. Please continue reading to learn more about the five most widely used air conditioners and their average prices. You can still get help deciding which air conditioner is right for you. Contact us anytime for a free equipment quote at (204) 800-1022.

Central Air Conditioning

The most common air conditioner is the central AC unit, which takes air from the house and compresses it in an outdoor condensing unit. The condenser coils then convert the gas into a hot liquid. The liquid then travels to the indoor furnace unit’s evaporator coils, where it becomes a cool evaporated. The air is distributed throughout your home by fans and central ductwork.

A central air conditioner might be the best choice if you have ductwork throughout your house. Depending on their size and other factors, the average cost of these units will be between $3,000 to $6,000, including installation.

Window AC Unit

A window AC conditioner cools the air on a smaller scale than a central one. Window AC units can only cool the area they are placed in and not the entire house. The fans blow cool air through the room and expel hot air out the window.

These units are typically the most affordable and don’t require an installation. It is easy to set up and takedown. You can choose the power level and room size. These are examples of power levels (in British thermal units, BTUs) and their associated square footage.

• 5,000-8,000 BTU: 150 to 350 square feet
• 8,000-12,000 BTU: 350-554 square feet
• 12,000-18,000. BTU: 550-1.050 sq. feet
• 18,500-22,500 BTU: 1,050-1.600 sq. feet

Window air conditioners do not typically require a professional installation. AC units can be as low as $150 – $750.

Ductless Mini Split

Mini-split air conditioners are good if your home does not have ductwork. You can adjust the temperature in every room. In addition, it also doesn’t require as much electricity and only requires one power supply.

Prices for these ductless air conditioners vary depending on the number of zones you want to be cooled. If your house is larger, you will need several indoor units, which can be pretty expensive. We estimate that the average cost of units and installation will be $1,500 to $8,000.

Geothermal

Geothermal heat pumps heat or cool your home using ground-sourced temperatures. The unit uses water and antifreeze solution to trap heat in tubing four feet deep in the ground. Subsequently, the unit compresses the air and sends it to the evaporator coils. It’s heated or cooled to the desired temperature and then blown through your home via centralized vents and ducts. It can also remove hot air from your home during cooling and return it to the ground.

Installation of geothermal heat pumps requires labour, such as digging trenches or laying piping. The labour component is the most expensive option for air conditioners. The average price range is $13,000 to $36,000. It’s also one of the best ways to condition your home’s air using very little electricity or gas, which could pay dividends in the long term.

Dual fuel

Dual fuel systems work in the same way as central air conditioners. They use the coils from your indoor furnace unit. They include heat pump technology to lower your energy bills.

Dual fuel systems are an excellent solution for people who live in colder areas. This system provides a gas furnace that heats your home in winter when temperatures drop too low to allow the heat pump to work efficiently. It can also cool your home by using the heat pump’s air-source heat to condense or evaporate cool fluid inside the furnace unit’s air-distribution components. 

Prices for dual fuel heat pump systems vary depending on how big the home is. The average cost of the unit and installation is $4,000 to 8,000. Like geothermal heat pumps, these systems can help you save money over the long term on your energy bills.

Air conditioner costs by type

  Type Unit Cost AC Installation Cost  

  Central air conditioner $1,200-$4,500 $1,200-$2,200 Window AC unit $150-$750 N/A* Mini-split ductless $1,000-$5,500 $500-$2,000 Geothermal $3,000-$6,000 $10,000-$30,000 Dual fuel $2,800-$5,500 $1,300-$2,500 

 You can usually install window AC units yourself. 

The Costs of Air Conditioners Explained

There are many factors that you should consider when shopping for air conditioners. It is not a good idea to base your decision on the price. Talk to an HVAC professional who can help you determine the unit type, which models, and what details to install. These are some of the factors that impact the price of AC units.

• Size: Choosing the right size unit to cool your home can be tricky, even though larger units are more expensive. You will spend more money on energy and maintenance if you buy a smaller unit. If you aren’t sure which size unit you need, consult a professional before purchasing.
• Brand: Reading customer reviews about top air conditioner manufacturers is an excellent way of ensuring a more reliable system. To ensure that the contractor you choose for installation is licensed and reputable, it’s good to read customer reviews.
• Installation: Hiring an HVAC technician may be expensive, depending on the complexity and time. A professional HVAC technician is a required expense unless you purchase a window unit. Most AC units need professional assistance. It’s good to get in touch with contractors for a free consultation.
• Seasonal Efficiency Ratio (SEER): The SEER rating measures how much energy is required to cool down the output. Higher ratios will result in lower energy bills. It would be best to look for numbers between 14-24 when shopping.
• Tax credits: A great way to reduce the cost of your air conditioner unit is to claim tax credits or rebates for certified energy-saving equipment from Energy Star. ENERGY STAR Canada is a voluntary partnership between the Government of Canada and industry to promote energy-efficient and eco-friendly manufacturing.

Air Conditioner Repairs

You will need an HVAC professional to repair your air conditioner if it breaks down. Furnace Repair Toronto can help if your residence is in the Greater Toronto Area. These are some things to watch out for in your air conditioner and the estimated repair costs. Here are some typical prices:

• AC Leaks: $250 – $1,200
• Drainage: $100 – $150
• Compressor Replacement: $600 – $1,200
• Frozen condenser coils: $250 – $1,000
• Fan or air blower: $450 – $650
• Blocked filter: $75 – $150
• Electricity circuits: $100 – $150
• Thermostat: $100 – $250

Most Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install the air conditioner?

Unless you have a window air conditioner, you require an HVAC contractor to install your air conditioning unit. The wiring, tubing and piping are often too complicated for DIY jobs and can contain dangerous chemicals. 

Which air conditioner is most efficient?

Heat pumps are the most efficient way to heat or cool your home. They use external sources like air, water, and temperatures on the ground. Many people save significant amounts on their natural gas or electricity bills. There are two options: dual fuel and geothermal heat pump.

What is the difference between an AC conditioner and a heat pump?

A heat pump both heats and cools your home. It works the same way as a central air conditioner unit by distributing air through ductwork. An HVAC professional can help you decide the right fit for your home.

How much does it cost to run an air conditioner every day?

Depending on your home’s size, the power required to cool it, and your desired temperature, your air conditioner’s daily energy costs can vary. Our research revealed that average air conditioners cost between $2 and $5 per day. Many types of air conditioners use less energy so make sure to shop around for the one that best suits your needs.