It is rather difficult to find cheap central air conditioners. Of course, there are cheaper central units out there but it’s the operation of the unit that is the priciest. Before looking at the central air conditioners available, read the facts below to help guide you in the right choice.
Fact #1
Cheap central air conditioners do technically exist, but you must know that it is the operation of the unit that tends to be the most costly. Purchasing a unit that is more energy efficient than standard units may help prevent the higher costs of operation. With this being said, higher efficiency units tend to cost more money when purchased. It will take some research for you to figure out what will cost you less in the future.
Fact #2
Central air conditioners capacities are measured in tons. Their efficiency is measured in SEERs or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios. To give you an idea, there are 12000 BTU per ton. As for the SEER rating of a central unit, it is very similar to an EER rating. SEER is measured in a range of temperatures while EER is usually calculated at 95F. That would be the difference between the two. Depending on how many tons you need to cool your home and the amount of SEER your unit has, will greatly affect the price in which you pay.
Fact #3
Buying a unit that comes with a timer on its thermostat, similar to the timers on portable units, will help to save energy as well as money. Using air conditioning when you need it and turning it off when it is unneeded will help save you from unnecessary costs.
Fact #4
There are brands out there that are cheaper than others and yet still of good quality. Haier is a brand that is decently reviewed by its customers. Their units cost anywhere from about $500 upwards to $2000.
Fact #5
Buying a durable well made central air conditioner made with commercial grade materials will help prevent damage to your unit. It is also important to take care of and maintain your unit. You will want to have it cleaned out at least once a year. It will also need filters and other such parts replaced as often as the manual for your central air states. You may also want to buy a cover to protect it from harsh weather and debris. Maintaining the health of your central air conditioner will prevent you from paying any unnecessary maintenance costs or even replacing it before its life cycle.
No matter how you look at it, central air conditioning tends to cost quite a bit of money. Although there are cheaper central air conditioners available, it is the operation that tends to be the most costly. However, with the knowledge given to you above, you should be able to make a wise decision and know what to expect when searching for a cheap central air conditioner.