How Much Does Central AC Installation Cost In Houston?

On average, the cost for AC installation in Houston Texas ranges from $3,100 to $7,150 (including the unit). Air conditioning is a must-have for all Houston homes, but which is best? Here’s your guide to AC installation in ‘The Space City’.

Texas Summers and air conditioning go hand in hand. We break down what you need to know about Central AC, from installation to cost and everything in between.

From June until August, the average high temperature in Houston is over 90 degrees.

In other words, you need central AC.

Of course, it’s not as simple as going online, finding a company to install an air conditioner, and selecting them to do the job. You have to do more research to figure out the model that suits your home and how much it should all cost.

That’s no easy task, so we’re here to help — here’s everything you need to know about central AC and installation in Houston.

How Much Does Central AC Installation Cost in Houston?

Unfortunately, there’s no single answer to this question. The cost of your AC installation will include both parts and labor, and every house will require a different service.

However, you can expect the following when you start to figure out central AC unit costs:

There Will Be a Great Range in Central AC Unit Prices

Firstly, you can find central AC units at a range of prices. Generally, you can expect to pay $1,700 to $3,000 for your new equipment. The installation cost will run another $1,800 – $2800.

These prices vary by manufacturer and specifications. But sometimes you will find that two units with the same output will vary greatly in cost because they carry different brand names.

Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners Cost More — But Save

Choosing an Energy Star-approved air-conditioning unit will cost slightly more than a traditional model. However, such a device will serve you well in Houston.

Energy-efficient central AC systems require fewer resources to run. So, even if you shell out more now to pay for the unit, you’ll save on your utility bills in the long run. And those savings tend to make these models more cost-effective over time.

Labor Costs Factor Into the Price, Too

Your old air-conditioning unit will have to move so that you can replace it. The air-conditioning contractor you hire will be able to move it and dispose of it for you.

However, this labor will cost you, as will the installation of your new central AC unit. So, you can’t just consider the price tag of the equipment itself — you’ll need to find out how much labor costs, as well.

Some Properties Require Additional Accessories

If you already have a furnace or central heater, then you probably have the foundation for a fully functional air-conditioning unit. Your furnace has a blower that sends hot air into your home. And it can work with your air-conditioning unit, too, breezing cold air into your abode.

Without this feature already in place, though, your central AC installation might also require you to pay for fans. They’ll do the blower’s job — and, without them, your new air-conditioning unit won’t be able to do its job effectively.

You Could Get a Tax Credit or a Rebate

Purchasing an energy-efficient air-conditioning unit can save you money in more ways than one. If it fits particular criteria, the equipment you choose could mean that you’re eligible for a tax credit come filing season.

Even a traditional unit could come with a rebate to reduce the cost. Again, you’ll find out this information by doing your research. Speaking to an experienced contractor can help you decide on the best unit.

Which Central AC Brands Are Best?

Everyone’s answer to this question will be different. But you’re sure to hear the following brand names come up repeatedly because they have great reputations:

• American Standard
• Amana
• Bryant
• Carrier
• Goodman
• Heil
• Lennox
• Rheem
• Ruud
• Trane
• York

Start your research with these brands. You can also ask friends or family for their recommendations, too.

How Long Will My Central AC Unit Last?

Your central AC unit is costly, but it will last you for quite a while.

Most will last from 15 to 20 years. All of this comes down to maintenance, though. The more carefully you maintain your equipment, the longer it will last.

You can factor that into the cost of paying for a new Houston air conditioner — it’s an expense you won’t have to worry about for about two more decades. And, if you buy a top-of-the-line model, it could last even longer.

How Else Can I Save on Air-Conditioning?

On that note, you can save money on air-conditioning with a few additional steps.

Take Care of Your Central AC

Start by learning to maintain your equipment properly.

You’ll want to clean debris, such as leaves and dirt, out of your unit from time to time. Cleaning the outside grates, called fins, can help the air-conditioning unit to function at its best.

Clean up the area around your air-conditioning unit, as well. Removing debris from this area will prevent it from lodging into your equipment between now and your next cleaning.

Just as you do indoors, you should replace the filters inside of your central AC unit. The less dust and debris through which it has to send air, the more efficiently it will run.

Keeping your air-conditioning unit clean will prevent it from over-working to create the cold air you want.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Another way to make the most of your central AC unit is to install a programmable thermostat to control it.

You can set it to stop running when you’re not home. Perhaps you can have it stall while you’re sleeping, too.

When you take these steps, your air-conditioning unit will run only when you need it. This will make it more cost-effective, and it will preserve the life of your equipment.

Best A/C Replacement Companies in Houston, TX

Superior HVAC
1919 Decatur St, Houston, TX 77007

Who Can Help Me Install My Central AC?

Now that you know how much your central AC unit costs and what it will take to install it, you’re ready to take the next step. Click here to search for the right contractor to help with the job ahead.