The 2024 Buyer’s Guide to Home Air Conditioners

Considering a new central or ductless AC unit? Explore our comprehensive air conditioner buying guide to discover the various types of home air conditioners, understand AC efficiency, and gain insights into the costs of air conditioners in Canada.   .
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Embracing the Canadian summer is a cherished experience, filled with warm weather, outdoor activities, and the joy of barbecues. However, the enthusiasm can quickly fade if your air conditioner malfunctions on a hot and humid day. For homeowners facing the significant decision of replacing an air conditioner, the urgency to gather precise and unbiased information about AC repair or replacement options is crucial. To assist you through every step of this journey, we’ve compiled this comprehensive air conditioner buying guide.

 

How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

Determining the cost of a new air conditioner involves several factors. On average, a high-efficiency air conditioner, inclusive of standard installation from a licensed and insured company with at least a one-year warranty, ranges from $3,995 to $6,000. The specific factors influencing the cost include:

  1. Air Conditioner Type:

    • The type of air conditioner, whether central, ductless, window, wall-mounted, or portable, contributes to the overall cost.

  2. Environmental Choices:

    • Considerations such as energy efficiency, sound output, air filtration options based on sensitivities or allergies, and comfort-enhancing features impact the cost.

  3. Personal Choices:

    • Factors like extended warranties, maintenance plans, and service guarantees chosen by the homeowner can affect the overall price.

  4. Technical Requirements:

    • The size of the home, floor plan, number of stories, existing ductwork, and BTU load all play a role in determining the cost of the new AC unit.

  5. Code Requirements:

    • Compliance with safety, licensing, and building code requirements can influence the final price.

Understanding these factors is essential for homeowners looking to estimate the cost of a new air conditioner accurately.

Why Buy a New High-Efficiency AC?

Lower Cooling Bills

Upgrading to a new high-efficiency air conditioner can save you up to 36% on your annual cooling bill* while cutting greenhouse gas emissions at the same time.

 

Better Dehumidification

New high-efficiency air conditioners are better than older models at removing humidity from the air, helping your family stay cool even on the hottest days.

 

Utility Rebates

Get paid to make your home more energy efficient with rebates that help cover the cost of new AC purchases, installations and home energy assessments.

 

Air Conditioner Basics

Understanding the fundamentals of air conditioning is crucial when researching and purchasing a new unit. In the upcoming section, we’ll delve into key subjects and terms, including when to consider replacing your AC unit, determining the appropriate size for your needs, and exploring efficiency ratings.

How an Air Conditioner Works:

Air conditioners follow a simple process to cool indoor spaces:

  1. Warm Air Absorption:

    • The AC unit draws in warm air from the interior, initiating the cooling process.

  2. Evaporator Coil Operation:

    • The warm air passes over an evaporator coil, where heat is absorbed, and humidity is removed, effectively cooling the air.

  3. Heat Expulsion:

    • The AC unit expels the absorbed heat outside, maintaining the desired temperature inside.

  4. Cold Air Redistribution:

    • The now-cooled air is pushed back into the room, creating a more comfortable indoor environment.

Understanding this basic operation provides insight into the functionality of an air conditioner and its role in maintaining optimal temperatures indoors.

The expense of repairing an air conditioner is contingent on the issue’s complexity, the extent of the repair needed, and the cost of any necessary components.

When you activate your air conditioner, and it fails to produce cold air, several factors could be at play. Potential causes include a frozen coil, obstructed filters, a blocked air condenser, a malfunctioning compressor, or a refrigerant leak. Additionally, a faulty thermostat could also be a contributing factor, necessitating replacement.

Unpleasant odors, unusual sounds, increased energy expenses, insufficient cooling, or restricted airflow are indicators that your air conditioner might require repair or

 

Consistent maintenance can typically extend the operational life of an air conditioner to 10-15 years. However, the need for purchasing or renting a new unit may arise sooner if your current equipment experiences a breakdown, and the required parts are not readily available.