Moving From Window AC To A Central AC System? Cost-Cutting Considerations
If your home is equipped with a heat source that does not include a forced-air furnace or heat pump, such as electric baseboard, boiler, or radiant heat, your family may have been longing for central air conditioning. This situation is not uncommon due to the fact that central air conditioning was not a commonly included feature prior to the 1970s.
But, installing central air conditioning in an existing home is more complicated than simply upgrading or replacing an existing system. If you are a homeowner longing for the coolness and convenience of central air but are worried about the potential costs involved, these cost-cutting considerations can help.
Saving money on ducting
One of the primary challenges of installing a central air conditioning system in an existing home is the lack of the existing ducting required to move the conditioned air throughout the home. One way to save money on this component is to choose new products such as flexible, low-profile ducting options that can be installed in existing walls and ceilings or concealed easily with minimal construction work.
If the home is large with a sprawling design, it may also be more frugal to install ducting throughout the main part of the home and then opt to use one or more mini-split systems in the other spaces farthest from the HVAC system.
Saving money with timing
Installing a complete central air conditioning system in a home that was not previously outfitted to accommodate it is more complicated than upgrading or replacing an existing system. Since the work is far more involved and can take longer to perform, homeowners who can schedule the work to be done in the off-season may be able to take advantage of special pricing.
In addition to potential savings on installation, homeowners may also be able to save on the total cost by searching for applicable tax credits or rebates. It may also be possible to purchase HVAC components that were left over from a previous year's inventory, cosmetically damaged during shipment, or returned from a customer.
Saving money with skilled installation
Another way to save money when installing air conditioning in a home for the first time is to choose an installation contractor who can perform all the services needed, including plumbing. Doing this prevents the added cost of bringing in a sub-contractor to handle plumbing needs, such as running the condensate lines, during the installation.
To learn more about installing central air into your home for the first time, contact an AC installation service in your area about your situation and budget.