Installing a new heating and air conditioning system in the home is an intricate process, and you should prepare for it well beforehand. Unfortunately, many homeowners underestimate the cost of this project and end up making mistakes that impact the efficiency of the system later. But it's not easy to tell how much the installation might cost you. So here are the primary factors that will determine the money you'll spend on your AC installation project.

The Air Conditioner Type You Choose

There are numerous air conditioner types and styles in the market. Their differences depend on design, size, and cooling abilities. Typically, the model you choose greatly affects the installation costs. In most cases, each unit comes with unique mechanisms that support its operation. These mechanisms usually add to the installation cost since they require additional work to install. For example, a ducted air conditioner doesn't cost the same as a mini-split system to install. The difference comes from the cost of installing infrastructure like vents and other crucial components in the ducted system. 

The Unit's Energy Efficiency Rating 

The unit's SEER also plays a role in determining its cost. SEER is the seasonal energy efficiency rating. The rating is a ratio between the electrical input into the machine and the cooling capacity that it can attain. Systems with a higher SEER rating are typically more expensive to buy and install than those with a lower rating. Therefore, the cost of installing an efficient unit will naturally be higher than the rest.

The Cost of the Vents and Returns

Ducted air conditioning systems are usually costlier to install than other varieties. This is because, in addition to the ductwork, these systems have return vents in which the air from the room flows through to get back to the air conditioner. The material, design, and labor costs that go into creating these parts of the system determine the overall cost of the entire installation process.

The Zones and Controls

Zones and controls are crucial considerations when calculating how much it will cost you to install the unit. For example, when installing the system in a house with different cooling zones, you will incur a higher cost than if your entire system has a single zone.

If you're unsure about the installation, consult an HVAC contractor before shopping for a system. They will help you go through these factors and develop a budget for your project. That way, you will install an efficient system that will experience minimal hitches in the future.

Contact an HVAC contractor to learn more about residential air conditioning.