Installation cost is one of the first things many people ask about if they want to install an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Below are the critical factors that affect the installation cost.
HVAC Type
HVAC professionals usually classify the systems into different categories. The type of system determines its installation cost. A common form of classification includes:
- Split systems that comprise individual heating and cooling units
- Ductless systems that don’t have dedicated channels for distributing air in the house
- Packaged systems that integrate heating and cooling units in single packages
In some cases, you might save money by replacing an existing HVAC with the same system type. Say you have a ductless system, and your house doesn’t have ductwork. You can install the same system and avoid the extra cost of ductwork installation.
Fuel Type
The energy source that the system uses to cool or heat the house also determines the installation cost. The main energy sources include:
- Natural gas
- Oil
- Electricity
- Geothermal energy
ACs typically run on electricity. Furnaces can run on different energy sources. For example, oil furnaces typically cost more to install than gas furnaces.
Efficiency
HVAC efficiency is a factor of several things, including design and installation. However, a system’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating is a significant factor. The SEER rating compares a system’s seasonal output to its total energy input over the same season.
A high SEER rating represents a higher efficiency than a low SEER rating. The U.S. government requires a minimum SEER of 13 (the maximum can be 28 or more). As expected, high-efficiency systems also cost more to install than those with lower ratings. Fortunately, the high-efficiency systems incur lower running costs compared to their low-efficiency counterparts.
Brand
Just like other major equipment, HVAC installation costs also vary by brand. Brands associated with premium products, usually from major manufacturers, cost more than others. Most contractors believe that the price difference by brands isn’t proportional to quality difference by brand.
Thus, you shouldn’t assume that the most expensive brand has the highest quality. Moreover, many of the major HVAC manufacturers produce different systems under different names. They design the pricing differences more or less to meet consumer expectations. Just get a professional installer and a certified brand to enjoy a quality system.
Features
Some HVAC systems come with features or technologies for added convenience or efficiency. Examples include:
- Smart thermostats that you can program for automatic or remote control
- Sensors that enable the automatic opening and closing of vents
- Sensors that enable round-the-clock monitoring of not only temperature but also humidity and pressure
These bells and whistles affect the cost of the system.
Modifications or Add-Ons
You might have to make a few modifications while replacing your HVAC system. You may all want to install auxiliary systems that work in conjunction with or help the HVAC system. These modifications or additional installations cost extra in addition to the standard installation cost. Possible modifications include:
- Installing an ultraviolet (UV) air purifier
- Installing a dehumidifier or humidifier
- Redesigning the ductwork or registers, for example, after a major home renovation
- Installing a zoning system that allows independent heating and cooling of different parts of the house
The more modifications or add-ons you want, the higher the overall installation cost will rise.
HVAC installation costs depend on so many factors. The best way to get a good system at an affordable price is to discuss your heating and cooling needs with Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning. That way, we can give you an accurate quote before the project begins. Contact us today to benefit from our professionalism and experience.
