If you tell someone that they have to replace their HVAC system, the first question that will likely come across their mind will probably sound something like “Oh, great. How much is this going to cost?” This isn’t misguided—most people know that replacing an HVAC system outright is not exactly cheap, and few people have the kind of money needed to undertake this project just lying around. However, it’s easier to digest this cost when you understand exactly what goes into it as well. Replacing a full HVAC system isn’t as simple as dropping in a new part, so there are other things you need to factor in. The goal of this blog is to help you better understand that so you can prepare for your replacement service.
Cost #1: Your HVAC System
The first, foremost, and biggest expense of an HVAC system replacement is the cost of the new HVAC equipment. This can vary tremendously, depending on the size of the system you purchase, the features your new system contains, and the efficiency you choose. There are a few things you’ll get to choose for yourself, but one important factor really isn’t something you should ever compromise on: your system’s size. An HVAC system that is too small won’t be able to heat or cool your home effectively, and one that is too big will waste a lot of energy by short-cycling (rapidly turning on and off). Otherwise, you should be able to choose what efficiency you would like and any additional features (including what type of heating you would like to use).
Cost #2: Installation Labor
Installing brand-new HVAC equipment isn’t something the average person has the skill or ability to do all on their own. While the internet may provide instructions on how to do simple repairs for other areas of your home, a DIY installation is a recipe for disaster when it comes to HVAC equipment. Small mistakes can cause irreparable damage to brand new equipment, and before you know it your brand new air conditioner suddenly costs thousands of dollars more when you need to replace a critical component that wasn’t installed properly. That’s why you should always leave this job to a professional with the tools, training, and experience to get the job done.
Installation labor can vary, depending on the contractor you choose to perform the installation. However, if all other factors are the same, the majority of contractors will generally charge about the same amount for the work being done (with small variances). Some contractors may offer special rates that are great to take advantage of, but beware of any contractor who outright quotes you far less than any other company will. This could be a sign of inexperience, poor reputation, or a number of other qualities that could create a serious problem and lead to a poor experience for you. As the old saying goes: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
The big fluctuation in labor cost will be the size of the job needing to be done. And it’s fairly simple: the more work you need, the more labor will cost.. Labor Costs will go up if your home requires some sort of additional work to overcome preexisting issues, preventing your replacement from going smoothly. Always get quotes before signing on any dotted lines.
Cost #3: Any Additional Work or Accessories
Sometimes, you might want to take the opportunity when replacing your HVAC system to add in additional features or take care of issues like ductwork with some major wear and tear in it. This is a great time to have these extra things done, as they can often be completed while your installation is ongoing. However, extra work does add to the material and labor cost of your replacement.
The benefit to doing additional work at the same time as your installation is that your new equipment has the features and auxiliary equipment it can depend on to operate at peak efficiency. Likewise, doing multiple things at the same time can bring labor costs down, which helps you save money. However, you will want to ask about these jobs before starting your replacement.
Learn more about replacing your HVAC system with a new system consultation from the team at Pyramid Heating & Cooling! Call (503) 783-8488 to schedule yours today.