Most homeowners know they'll eventually need to replace at least some of the major components of their home. Roofs wear out over time, especially in areas with severe weather, and water heaters fail. HVAC systems don't last forever, either, nor do large appliances or flooring. But while many of those expenses can be anticipated at least a few years in advance, it's often difficult to know exactly when a central air conditioning system will need to be replaced — or how much that replacement will cost.
That cost question is becoming an increasingly important one as homeowners hold onto their properties longer and look for ways to manage their ongoing maintenance expenses. A central AC system is one of the most expensive household systems to repair or replace, after all, yet many homeowners don't begin researching costs until performance starts to decline or a contractor recommends a replacement. That's when many discover that the price of a new system can vary significantly.
Factors like the size of the home, the efficiency of the unit and the complexity of the installation can all influence the final bill, after all. So, before moving forward with a purchase, it's important to understand both the average costs and what specific factors drive the price of a central air conditioning unit.
Learn how ARS can help you keep your central AC costs down now.
What is the average cost of a central air conditioning unit?