Replacing an air conditioner is a significant decision for any homeowner. Whether your system has reached the end of its lifespan or is no longer functioning efficiently, understanding the associated costs and factors is essential. In Calgary, where temperatures fluctuate drastically, a reliable AC system is vital for staying comfortable during the warm summer months. This blog will explore the factors influencing air conditioner replacement costs in Calgary, typical price ranges, tips to save money, signs you need a new unit, and common mistakes to avoid.
Key Takeaways
- Central ACs are pricier to replace due to ductwork.
- Portable units are more affordable but less efficient for Calgary homes.
- Factors include the type of AC, severity of the problem, system age, seasonality, and warranty coverage.
- Regular maintenance and addressing minor issues early can prevent costly repairs or replacements.
- Opt for units with high SEER ratings and improve home insulation to save on energy bills.
- Watch for poor performance, unusual noises, leakages, and rising energy bills.
- Don’t DIY, undersize/oversize the unit, or prioritize cost over quality.
- Replace your AC during the off-season for better deals and availability.
- Leverage existing warranties to offset replacement costs.
- Professional installation ensures efficiency, longevity, and peace of mind.
Factors Influencing Air Conditioner Replacement Cost in Calgary
Several variables determine the air conditioning replacement prices in Calgary. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors –
Type of the AC
Type of the air conditioning system you have at your home impacts the air conditioning replacement prices significantly. If your home has an AC with a network of ducts, it will be costlier to repair due to their complexity. Whereas ductless mini-splits are moderately priced. Portable air conditioners and window units are often cheaper, but they are less common in Canadian homes.
Nature of the problem
The severity of your current system affects the air conditioning replacement prices in Calgary. If your air conditioner wants a simple thermostat replacement, it might cost you $100-$200. On the other hand, fixing a refrigerant leak costs more than $500. And if it requires the replacement of some major component like a compressor or condenser, it costs $1200-$2500, which is a much bigger expense.
Age
If the age of your cooling system is over 15 years, it is wise to get it replaced rather than repairing it. It is challenging to find a replacement for the older units. Besides, older systems are not at par with efficiency levels. So it is best to replace your air conditioner with a newer one.
Seasonality
Peak seasons come with higher installation costs. That’s why it is said that the timing or season of your replacement affects the price. On the other hand, if you consider the off-season replacements, it may result in better deals.
Warranty Coverage
If your current air conditioning system is under warranty, you will be able to handle the cost better as some of its replacement costs will already be covered. Always check the warranty details for parts and labor coverage.
Average Cost of Air Conditioner Replacement in Calgary
Here’s a look at the typical costs of air conditioning replacement in Calgary, depending on the system –
- Refrigerant top-up service costs between $239-$419.
- Leak repair services cost between $500-$1700.
- Part replacement services like compressor coil replacement, Dual run capacitor replacement, etc., cost between $240-$1700.
- AC Relocation and reinstallation start at $1700
These prices can vary depending on the unit’s brand, energy efficiency rating, and installation complexity. Ensure you request detailed quotes from multiple HVAC professionals to get a clear understanding of the total costs.
How to Save on Air Conditioner Replacement Costs in Calgary?
Replacing an AC unit doesn’t have to drain your savings. Here are some practical tips to reduce air conditioner replacement costs in Calgary –
Regular maintenance
The first and foremost way of avoiding costly air conditioning Calgary prices is through routine air conditioner maintenance. Regular maintenance includes professional inspecting the HVAC system of your home annually. It helps you unleash the potential issues before they rise and become serious problems. What’s more? Perform simple tasks like checking refrigerant levels and cleaning the coils, as they go a long way in making your air conditioner run smoothly.
Warranty and Insurance
Before paying the money out of your pocket, check if the AC of your home still falls into the warranty period. There are some policies that cover the damage to the air conditioning system to a certain extent. So, check your policy to see what’s included.
Energy efficiency improvements
Upgrade the insulation or sealing ductwork of your home to improve the overall efficiency of your AC. Also, go for the system with high SEER (Seasonal energy efficiency ratio) ratings, as they will save you money on energy bills over time.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to replace your AC can save you from costly air conditioning Calgary replacement prices and inefficient cooling. Here are some indicators –
Performance issues
If it is taking much longer to cool your home or your HVAC is struggling to maintain a consistent temperature, it might be that the system is no longer effective.
Unusual noises
Have you ever noticed unusual noises like grinding or banging coming out of the air conditioning? If yes, it is signaling the need for replacement. Check out if there is such an issue to steer clear of any further damage.
Leakages
Refrigerant or water leaks are the signs of concern. You can get the water leaks repaired, but refrigerant leaks are more serious. So, you can consider replacing your air conditioner.
Increased energy bills
A sudden spike in your energy bill often points to an aging or inefficient system struggling to keep up with demand.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Air Conditioner Replacement
These are some common pitfalls you must avoid while considering air conditioner replacement costs in Calgary to ensure a smooth process and long-lasting results for your HVAC system –
- No wonder affordability is an important factor; prioritizing low cost over quality often results in higher expenses due to frequent repairs or poor performance.
- An improperly sized unit.
- Doing it all by yourself or skipping professional installation.
- Neglecting routine maintenance.
- Overlooking warranty details.
Conclusion
Air conditioner replacement costs in Calgary involve several considerations, from understanding cost factors to recognizing the signs of an aging unit. By choosing the right system, timing your replacement strategically, and avoiding common mistakes, you can make this significant investment more manageable and ensure long-term comfort for your home.
When it comes to reliable AC replacement in Calgary, trust the experts at GSB Heating & Cooling. With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we provide high-quality installations tailored to your home’s needs. Contact GSB Heating & Cooling today for a free consultation and experience the difference of working with Calgary’s top HVAC professionals.