Tips To Install an AC on a Budget
Air conditioner installation requires a significant investment. However, budgetary constraints should not bar you from cooling your home. Plan for the installation and take the relevant measures to afford the replacement. The following tips can help.
Choose an Inexpensive System
Like other products, ACs attract different prices depending on different factors. AC size or capacity is a great price determinant, but different ACs of the same size usually command different prices. Factors determining price include:
- The AC's brand
- The AC's efficiency
- The AC's make and model
For example, units with variable-speed compressors that match cooling output to your demand cost more than units with one-stage compressors do. You can save thousands of dollars by choosing the right unit.
Minimize Bells and Whistles
The AC industry has numerous additions or bells and whistles that improve AC efficiency, cooling convenience, and comfort. Examples include:
- Purification systems, such as those that use UV light
- Learning thermostats that master your AC usage to automatically control it
- Occupancy sensors that detect occupied rooms and adjust the temperature as needed
The bells and whistles come at an extra cost, so you can avoid them to lower your AC replacement cost. The good news is that you can install these add-ons later when you can afford them.
Take Advantage of Rebates
Some governments offer HVAC rebates you can use to lower your AC replacement cost. Qualification varies by program. For example, some rebates target low-income households, and others only apply to highly efficient systems. Some energy companies also offer rebates for energy-efficient systems.
Like other free things, expect the rebates to be highly competitive and limited. However, you lose nothing by trying—you may be among the lucky few who qualify.
Use Your Warranty or Insurance
You may also be able to use a home warranty, manufacturer warranty, or homeowners insurance to cover the replacement budget or part of it. The nature of the damage and your protection determines whether you can get a third party to cover the damage.
A home warranty protects major systems in your home, including the AC, from wear and tear-related damage. Homeowners insurance protects your home and its contents from accidental damage. Your AC's manufacturer warranty protects you from losses related to defective products.
Choose Low-Season Installation
Choose the low season to install your AC if you have a choice. For example, AC companies and installers do the bulk of their business in the summer; thus, they have no incentive to offer discounts during this period. The issue of discounts or incentives aside, off-season AC replacement also allows you to compare quotes from several contractors since many of them are available.
Compare Quotes
The age-old advice of comparing quotes before purchasing anything applies to AC installations too. Quote comparison makes sense because AC contractors charge different labor costs based on their business models, overheads, and profit targets. Choose a few contractors in your area and ask them for quotes. Remember to supply all the contractors with the same information.
For example, use the same AC efficiency and type. Otherwise, the comparison would be unfair to some of the contractors. For example, comparing the installation cost of a heat pump to a central AC is not advisable since these are two different systems.
Fund the Installation
Lastly, you can also approach financial institutions for a loan to fund the AC replacement. Options include personal loans, credit cards, and home equity loans. As with the AC purchase, compare loan quotes from different lenders for an affordable option. Compare repayment periods, amounts, interest rates, and other terms and conditions.
Contact Malone Heat and Air for all your HVAC needs. Our incredible experience and understanding of the HVAC industry mean we can help you get the best AC for your home.
