In a recent survey, homeowners said that AC & Heating Connect is a key source of information about air conditioning and heating equipment, second only to friends and family. If your air conditioner or furnace just died, you’re facing some quick and tough decisions. Now is the time to take a deep breath and not rush to an uninformed decision.  The top mistakes people make when purchasing a new heating or cooling system are: Ignoring SEER – The higher the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating the more efficient the unit, which translates to less money spent each month heating or cooling your home. A 13 SEER rating is the minimum; 15 SEER is good; above 16 is high efficiency. A high efficiency system can cut your energy bills in half when compared to an old 8 SEER unit and also provides many comfort benefits. Missing rebate opportunities – Many states and manufacturers offer rebates to help offset the costs of some systems, particularly those that are higher efficiency. 

In fact, some states offer as much as $1500 in rebates. Only getting one estimate – Prices and options will vary, as will service contracts, installation costs, and permits.  Shop around and compare apples to apples. Going for the lowest price – A low price does not always equal the best value. A higher efficiency system might cost an extra $800 up front, but could save you $300 per year in energy costs. Over the life of the system, typically 12-15 years, you would be saving significant dollars by paying a little more for the higher efficiency system. Not considering maintenance contracts – Maintenance is necessary to keep your system functioning in optimal conditions over the life of the unit.  Over time dirt, debris, and other foreign substances can cause build up in your system, erode electrical connections and cause other damage that is expensive to replace.  In addition, the buildup can cause a 14 SEER unit to perform like a 10 SEER one, making your system work harder and your utility bills higher.

Ensuring your system is clean and maintained annually can extend the life of your system and help you avoid expensive and preventable repairs in the future. Not paying attention to refrigerant – R-22, which might be referred to by a brand name like Freon®, has been restricted from use in all new units produced after 2009. As an ozone-depleting gas, new R-22 refrigerant should not be used in  new systems.  If you’re buying a new system make sure it uses R-410A or a similar approved refrigerant. In some cases repairs can be made to existing systems using the R-22 refrigerant that is already in your old system or it can be repaired and recharged with “re-claimed” and recycled R-22 refrigerant from other old systems. Buying a new air conditioner or furnace is a big decision.  Take the time to make it a good one.  Have you recently replaced your system?  Tell us what you learned before your purchase!Whether you're building a new home and need a heating system installed or you have to replace a dead furnace, the installation of new heating equipment will be a costly proposition.

A home's heating and air conditioning system is the costliest mechanical system or appliance within the home. how to replace a capacitor in ac unitSome diligent research and working with an experienced contractor can help you get the most value on a new system.how much to replace compressor in ac unit Install a Furnace Costsac split units for sale Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by ImproveNet members. We are still gathering data for this location.Try changing location below or Most homeowners spent between:$2,883To$4,428 Number of Cost Profiles Most homeowners spent between: We are still gathering data for this location.   See specific cost in your area Enter your zip code to get started

The Average Cost to Install A Furnace The average cost to put in a furnace is $3,835. Most homeowners report paying between $3,250 and $4,420 for the installation of a new furnace. The lowest price that a homeowner might pay is $1,500, while the maximum price a homeowner has reported paying for a furnace installation was $6,990. The actual cost that you can expect to pay for a furnace installation will depend on the size and type of the furnace as well as its energy efficiency and other features. Furnaces can operate using propane, natural gas or electricity as the power source. Oil furnaces, geothermal furnaces and solar-powered furnaces are alternative options that a homeowner might consider. The U.S. Department of Energy offers Energy Star ratings to highly efficient furnaces. To determine a furnace's efficiency, look up its AFUE, or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, rating. The higher the AFUE value, the more efficient the furnace. Considerations When Installing a New Furnace

Size is one consideration when installing a furnace. Electric furnaces are smaller but often less efficient than other types of furnaces. Gas furnaces require the availability of natural gas and require regular maintenance to ensure that no gas or carbon monoxide is leaking. The furnace must be properly sized to the home, as a furnace with excess capacity will use extra power while an undersized furnace will not effectively heat the home. Some homeowners add accessories such as a humidifier and air purifier, which further increase the project cost. Regular furnace repair or maintenance can bolster its efficiency and lifespan. During the winter, change the furnace filter every month. Before the winter, schedule an annual tune-up with a licensed heating service company. Last updated on May 17, 2016 Top Articles on Install a Furnace 5 Air Conditioning Tips To Beat The Heat This Summer Air conditioners that are not serviced properly contribute to high energy costs and less efficient home cooling.