When shopping for a new central air conditioner, it's essential to understand that the lowest prices don't always equate to the best value. In fact, pricing should be among the last criteria on your list. The most important variables when considering central air conditioner prices are capacity, efficiency, and brand. According to our research, the cost of a new central air conditioner unit can range from about $800 to well over $10,000, with installation and additional work further increasing the overall cost.
Popular central air conditioner brands offer a wide range of prices, as shown in the table below:
| Brand | Lowest Price | Average Price | Highest Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rheem | $1,000 | $1,500 | $3,700 |
| Bryant | $900 | $1,300 | $3,900 |
| Amana | $1,100 | $1,600 | $3,200 |
| Lennox | $1,200 | $1,800 | $3,800 |
| Trane | $1,300 | $2,000 | $16,000 |
| Carrier | $1,500 | $1,900 | $3,900 |
| Goodman | $1,100 | $3,100 | $8,000 |
Note that these prices refer only to the central air conditioner unit and do not include installation costs.
The climate zone you live in and the area of your home are decisive factors in determining the capacity of your future central air conditioner unit. The following table shows the average prices for different central air conditioner units based on capacity:
| Central Air Conditioner Capacity | Average Price |
|---|---|
| 1 Ton (12,000 BTU) | $900 |
| 1.5 Tons (18,000 BTU) | $1,200 |
| 2 Tons (24,000 BTU) | $1,300 |
| 2.5 Tons (30,000 BTU) | $1,400 |
| 3 Tons (36,000 BTU) | $1,500 |
| 3.5 Tons (42,000 BTU) | $1,700 |
| 4 Tons (48,000 BTU) | $1,800 |
| 4.5 Tons (54,000 BTU) | $2,000 |
| 5 Tons (60,000 BTU) | $2,300 |
It's crucial to accurately match the unit's capacity with the space it needs to cool. An appliance that is too weak will not provide a comfortable temperature, while one that's too strong will cycle on and off frequently, becoming inefficient and unable to control air humidity effectively.
The most efficient central air conditioners are usually the most expensive but are the cheapest to run. Efficiency should be among the first things to consider when looking for a new central air conditioner. The following table shows the average prices for central AC units based on their Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER):
| SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) | Average Price |
|---|---|
| <14 (Low) | $1,250 |
| 15-17 (Average) | $1,800 |
| 18-20 (High) | $2,200 |
| 21-24 (Highest) | $2,900 |
The highest efficiency central air conditioners are the best for the environment, using significantly less energy and producing fewer greenhouse emissions. However, the balance between efficiency and overall costs depends on factors such as how much and often you will use your central air conditioner and how well insulated your home is.
Additional expenses, such as a programmable thermostat, extended warranty, extra functions, and installation costs, should be considered when purchasing a central air conditioner. Installation costs alone can range between $350 and $8,000 for a new appliance, depending on factors such as delivery, materials, contractor fees, ducting, insulation, and debris removal.
To find the best central air conditioner price and contractor, consider the following:
In summary, installing a new central air conditioner can cost between $2,000 for small homes or apartments and $15,000 or more for large homes. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision and find the best central air conditioner to suit your needs and budget.