Having a new air conditioner installed in your home is no small endeavor. First, you have to find an AC contractor. Then, you need to come up with the funds to pay for the replacement! A new air conditioner won't be cheap. Thankfully, there are a few ways that you can save money in this purchase and make sure you don't end up overpaying.
1. Look for Tax Credits and Rebates
The federal government often offers tax credits or tax deductions for homeowners who purchase energy-efficient appliances. Most air conditioners, if they carry the Energy Star label, are considered energy-efficient and meet the qualifications for these tax incentives. Also check to see if your state or local government offer additional tax breaks.
Another place to look for rebates is through your local electric company. Some utility providers will actually give you a few hundred dollars back for the purchase of an energy-efficient air conditioner. Reach out to your provider to find out if they have such a program and to get a list of air conditioners that will qualify.
2. Get Several Estimates
There are many different brands of air conditioners. Different HVAC contractors work with different brands. These contractors also are likely to charge different rates for their services. So, instead of just going with the first HVAC company you come across, take the time to get several estimates for your AC installation. One company in your area might offer a brand that retails for a little less or charge a few dollars less per hour of labor, resulting in a better deal. If you like the air conditioner one contractor is offering, but their estimate is higher than some others you've gotten, you can always ask if they're willing to do the work for a bit less. If you point out that a competitor has a better rate, they may match that rate.
3. Have a Friend Do the Removal
You need to have a licensed contractor install your new air conditioner to ensure it's installed properly. However, if you have a friend who has some basic DIY knowledge and contractor skills, you could arrange to have them come remove your old air conditioner the day before you have the new one installed. This will save your HVAC contractor some work, so they should be able to charge you a little less for the service. Just buy your friend pizza as a "thank you!"
4. Don't Buy an Oversized Unit
Your HVAC contractor will recommend the air conditioner that is the right size for your home. Some homeowners assume that a larger air conditioner is better, and so they insist that their contractor install a larger one. This is actually to you detriment since a larger unit will use more energy, won't cool as effectively, and costs more. Go with your HVAC contractor's recommendation when it comes to size -- they know what they are talking about, and it will be more affordable.
5. Consider Last Year's Model
If you have your air conditioner replaced in the fall, you may be able to get one for a little less. This is because the AC manufacturing companies are often trying to get rid of that year's models so they can roll out new models in the spring. Your HVAC contractor also won't be as busy in the fall -- it's not peak season -- so they may be willing to do the work for a little less.
Follow the tips above, and you will save money on your air conditioning installation. Your HVAC contractor may be able to offer you some more information and tips.
Share3 May 2018
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