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Heat Pump Prices – Who Needs a Premium Heat Pump For Their Phoenix AC Installation Project?

Written by Rm Harrington on . Posted in AC Service, Heat Pumps, Trane.

Heat Pump Prices – A Difficult Buyer Decision

Like all products, the scale for setting heat pump prices keep changing. So many options affect the final figures. And setting a dead rate for today may be totally out of line for tomorrow. With the availability of so different classes for heat pump performance, homeowners may have trouble dividing the line between AC quality and AC pricing. Sales hype can easily conceal the savings associated with value-added Phoenix AC installation services. If not careful, the buyer ends up with an incorrectly installed quality heat pump that performs below the standards of an entry-level air conditioning system.  

Homeowners and even Phoenix business owners can get caught up in the press for premium heat pump installation services versus the value of jumping to the top of the central air conditioning product line. Logo AMC for Phoenix AC installationYet choosing a lower product efficiency class is not always a bad idea. Buyers must always consider the long-term purposes associated with a new AC installation project. 

For example: Unless dealing in a very high profile residential area, most house flippers will install lower end heating and cooling systems. This may not always mean “cheap” but it can mean fewer bells and whistles. Likewise, rental units are typically equipped with lower class heat pumps. And so it is also for homeowners. If you are planning for a near-future housing change – perhaps a shift from Mesa to Scottsdale, why pay top dollar for a Mesa AC installation project only to encounter the same need five years later at your new Scottsdale home. 

The following heat pump price tips along with the associated unit quality classes will help you narrow the playing field. Perhaps you need a premium heat pump for your Phoenix AC installation project or maybe a moderate efficiency system will do just as well. 

AC and Heat Pump Price Comparisons 

As article content ages, price comparisons change. For me to list the ratings and prices of any particular air conditioning system, including air source and/or ducted units, would require that I know the exact prices in your precise time period. Thus the unit  comparisons listed below are top down ranging from most efficient to least efficient. The two primary factors of efficiency include system Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). However, not every Phoenix AC installation company charges the labor rates – neither do they provide the same quality of installation expertise, customer support or service reliability.

The following details focus on Trane as a token of every reliable manufacturer of quality AC or heat pump products. But I really cannot state current national labor averages, not can I set exact or average product prices. So we are going to compare heat pump efficiency rather than heat pump sales and heat pump installation prices. If you need an exact and current price on a new system, contact your local ACH service center. 

Ultra Efficiency Trane Heat Pumps 

Ultra efficient Trane systems currently ship in three configurations: 1) XL20i, 2) XL16i and 3) XL15i. These compare to the premium products of other manufacturers such as the Amana, Carrier and Rheem. However, the Carrier Infinity line pushes a higher SEER rating than the upper level Tranes, including a plus four on HSPF ratings. Therefore Carrier Infinity pricing can exceed the Trane Ultra Efficiency pricing by as much as sixty percent. 

Th XL20i rates 19 SEER and 9 or less on HSPF. The average pricing for these units unit with thermostat and furnace, including system installation depends on the tonnage of the system and the layout of your home or business. For example: contractor’s wholesale cost for a 2-ton will typically come in cheaper than the cost of a 5-ton unit. The average average cost for Phoenix AC installation not including any need for new or modified ductwork will include a margin for profit as well as the current cost of labor. However the installation costs of larger units will increase proportionally to the need for additional work. Expect the Trane XL16i, rated at 18 SEER with a 9 or less HSPF to price out more expensive than the Trane XL15i, which rates out at 16 SEER and sports a standard HSPF that can reach as high as 9. But also realize SEER rating often directly influences heat pump prices.    

High Efficiency Heat Pumps Pricing Based On Trane Systems 

Trane XR15 AC UnitTrane high efficiency heat pumps ship in two models: 1) XR15 and 2) XR13. These system fall in line with Carrier’s Performance and Comfort Series. However, the maximum SEER and HSPF of the Performance and Comfort Series are slightly higher than the Trane High Efficiency line. Likewise, the cost of product plus the cost of Phoenix heat pump installation for both Carrier Performance systems and Carrier Comfort systems is a nearer match to pricing of Trane’s Ultra Efficiency systems rather than the Trane High Efficiency system. The Comfort line typically prices out less than the Performance line. 

Back to a focus on Trane High Efficiency units: 

  • Trane XR15 rates at 6.5 SEER. HSPF comes in as high as 9. Unit costs plus installation charges typically exceed the costs of the XR13. Likewise, a 4-ton unit with air handler typically exceeds the price of a 2-ton unit w/out air handler.
  • Trane XR13 carries a maximum 8.5 HSPF and a SEER rating of 14. Being identified as the lower end of the XR series, the Trane XR13 typically prices our below the cost of the XR15. However, the cost of heat pump installation may remain the same no matter which unit you chose. 

Trane Moderate Efficiency Heat Pumps 

Again, there is a distinctive price difference between Trane’s moderate efficiency systems and Carrier’s low-end systems. This is partly due to Carrier’s low-end units supporting a higher SEER rating (16 max) and HSPF rating (9 max). The moderate efficiency Trane system carries a max SEER of 15 and a max HSPF of 8.5. Trane offers twon low-end system configurations:

  • Trane XB14 runs a max of 15 SEER and 8.5 HSPF
  • Trane XB13 comes in at 14.5 SEER and 8.5 HSPC. 

Closing Notes on Heat Pump Pricing  

Heat pump and air conditioning prices vary by manufacturer, unit size, functional extras and the cost of quality Phoenix AC installation. Before closing any deal, complete the following three checkpoints: 

  1. Get multiple estimates from local contractors
  2. Make a balanced comparison, including differences in SEER ratings, HSPF ratings, product performance extras and the skill and reputation of your installer
  3. Use your ears and eyes to notice the little things that distinguish an experienced heat pump professional from a sales rep. 

Finally, make sure you buy according to your current needs and your long-term future goals.

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of Phoenix Air Conditioning Installation

Written by Rm Harrington on . Posted in AC Installation.

Is It Time To Hire A Professional Phoenix Air Conditioning Installation Company?

The April 2013 valley weather forecast for Phoenix AZ and the surrounding areas, such as Meza, Scottsdale and Buckeye predicts temperatures rising toward the mid-90s by mid-month. Chances of precipitation are hanging near 0% and the humidity has already reached 14%. It’s going to be another long, long cooling season.

Perhaps your current AC system is chugging along rather well. On the other hand, you may already have the Internet open to a Yellow Page listing of local Gilbert AC installation providers. Right now the big word in your mind is Cost.

Installing new central air conditioning can get expensive. Even on low-priced units, you may have to replace certain supplemental components such as ductwork, internal vents or even the air conditioning and refrigeration (ACR) field services pipe. With each additional component, the cost of materials increases. With each additional component, the price of installation also increases.

Air conditioning service prices vary from state to state and city to city. This article presents an overview of general pricing for the installation of central air conditioning systems. However, the closing statements focus on pricing Phoenix AC installation projects.

Central Air Conditioning Installation Cost: An Overview

Although no two AC installations are exactly alike, many similarities exit. Thus the primary procedures remain constant for all home or small business AC projects. However, the individual processes vary in relationship to pre-existing conditions and building size. For example: Pre-existing forced hot air heating ductwork may eliminate excess installation materials and labor. Whereas installation in a new home will likely require the installation of ducts, ACR pipe and perhaps even some custom landscaping. 

According to the 2010 Bureau of Labor Statistics the median pay for educated, trained and qualified heating, AC and refrigeration mechanics and installers hovered around $20.50 per hour. When dealing with companies that promote quality services above discount pricing, expect that they will also be paying for the top skilled, field technicians. Yet you must always remember that up-front pricing for quality work always come back in lifetime savings.

AC installation is not a DIY project. It requires special equipment and should be installed according to industry standards as developed by the US Energy Conservation department. On a national average, installing a central air conditioning unit will range from $2650 up to $15000 plus.

American Cooling And Heating Is Your Home Comfort Solution In Arizona

 

 

 

 

 

 

American Cooling And Heating

Your Gilbert area AC contractor should adhere to the following cooling unit installation standards: 

  • Install a doorway for access to the evaporator coil for cleaning and maintenance
  • Ensure adequate space for the indoor components of installation, maintenance and system repair
  • Use efficient duct-sizing methodology
  • Whenever possible, avoid installing ductwork in the attic
  • Use proper duct sealing methods, including heaver insulation for attic ducts
  • Right-counts the register and return air requirements
  • Ensures that airflow to condensing units are not hindered by nearby objects
  • Positions the external unit for best performance, best noise control and best safety practices
  • Uses an exact refrigerant charge.

Breaking Out the Specifics of Costs

The pricing for a new central air condition installation includes 4 primary points of payment: 

  1. Contractor – Oversees the entire project
  2. Subcontractor – Provides any necessary sub-licensed services
  3. Labor – Cleanup detail and technician assistance
  4. Materials – Ranging from the primary unit to the necessary recovering machine.

Phoenix Area Pricing For Central Air Conditioning Installation

Pricing the exact cost for installing AC in any given home must be based upon critical details as listed above. However, Phoenix prices typically run a bit below the national average. For example: A 16-SEER, 4-ton indoor and outdoor Meza AC installation would touch on $9000. But when pricing for your home or business, you can’t go by unit size and SEER ratings alone.

You don’t want a unit that is too small or a unit that is too large. Make certain that your Phoenix AC Installation Professional is licensed, insured, bonded and up-to-date on current AC sizing practices. Doing things right can help you save as much as thirty percent on your yearly cooling bill. You need an AC contractor who wants to do the job right, knows how to do the job right and cares enough about customer satisfaction to ensure that the job is done right.

For fast, 24-hour air conditioning and heat pump installation and services, call American Cooling and Heating today.

 

 

 

 

The Rising Price of R-22 Refrigerant: Not The Only Reason You Should Replace Your Outdated Air Conditioning System

Written by Rm Harrington on . Posted in AC Installation, AC Service.

Around this time of year, Phoenix area residents and businesses start receiving flyers pertaining to Glendale, Scottsdale and Mesa air conditioning installation services. Many of these papers will mention the rising price and scarcity of R-22 refrigerant. Sometimes such sales literature can trigger memories – memories of last year’s amplified cooling bill or how hot it got in spite of the labors of your aged central AC system or of how much it costs for Freon replacement in that leaky upstairs unit.

For many homeowners, the memories will trigger action. Some will make a phone call. Others, with all good intentions of follow-up, will slip the flyer on top the stack in a bedroom vanity whatnot shelf. Perhaps you will keep it closer by adding it to the pile of future-reads that you keep near the computer desk. In either event thrifty homeowners recognize the truths relayed via the flyer. If your AC is over ten years old, there is good reason for making contact with a Phoenix AC installation professional.

Right now that ancient Phoenix sky may be overcast and that blazing afternoon sun isn’t baking your roof and steaming the inside of your Glendale home. Government restrictions concerning the production of Freon (R-22 refrigerant) haven’t yet forced you to take advantage of energy-efficient air conditioning technologies now offer by Amana, Carrier and other top brand designers of heating and cooling equipment. And perhaps thoughts of making it just one more season hinder your response to a change that may be much more valuable than you think.

Here are a few reasons why the rising price of Freon should not be your only decision-making measuring stick. 

Prices Just Keep On Rising

U.S. government plans to phase out ozone depleting chemicals such as R-22 refrigerant are right on schedule. Over the last six months, Freon prices have climbed at an unprecedented speed. Production is on the decrease; panic buying is on the increase. The price of R-22 refrigerant is up by four times what it was just six months ago.

The push for settling the issue is near its end. By 2015, the government expects and demands a 90% reduction in the production of Freon. Meantime, the price of the replacement product, R410a, continues to drop. In the end result, Freon will cease to be available. Air conditioners installed before 2010 will experience Freon shortages, increased repair costs and the certainty of a future forced-replacement of the cooling system.

New Energy Standards and Increased Comfort at a Lower Cost

Ok. You don’t like Uncle Sam forcing your hand. No one does. But for the moment, why not lay the Freon issue aside. Here is an even better reason for calling in a Phoenix AC installation expert: 

  • Cost Effectiveness.

The best investments are often the most costly. Modern AC technology includes energy-efficient solutions designed to reduce your cooling cost, increase your personal at-home comfort level, and help protect the environment even when the systems are operating.

Here is an example from the extreme side of how new air conditioning technology can reduce energy expenses. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) a new DEVAP air conditioner process designed to combine desiccant-based dehumidification with indirect evaporative cooling can actually reduce the cost of industrial cooling by up to 81%. According to the project managers, even areas with dry climates such as Phoenix Arizona can benefit from the power of this new technology.

For now, DEVAP may not yet be an option for Phoenix homeowners. Yet the very technology that brings it into play is already working on your behalf. Using the free energy savings calculator available via the U.S. Small Business Administration, here is an example of what a Phoenix homeowner can save by installing an energy efficient central AC system. The following figures are based upon installing a new 2.5 ton 13.0 SEER energy efficient system.

Energy Ratings for AC Installation

In the summary, the bottom line relates to a percentage of the retail purchase price of the unit itself. The life-cycle energy savings amounts to nearly 25,000 KWh of electrical costs. The Net life-cycle savings pump out at $1,768. The value of the investment is obvious. 

Other Considerations

1) Avoid “dry charged” R-22 units. Although the original costs of such discount units may come in cheaper than an energy-star air conditioning system, they are not compliant with the regulations that demand forced upgrade to R-410a systems 

2) Slow leaks can develop in R-410a air conditioners as well as in R-22 refrigerant units, however the time is near when Freon just won’t be available. In the meanwhile, that yearly R-22 recharge is costing more and more.

3) Add ceiling fans to your home. Moving air tends to cool better than stale air. A few well-placed ceiling fans provide a low-cost reduction to your energy bill.

American Cooling and Heating

As a Phoenix AC installation professional, American Cooling and Heating is licensed, bonded and insured for residential, commercial and industrial HVAC and refrigeration services in the following areas: 

  • Glendale
  • Mesa
  • Scotsdale
  • And other Phoenix areas.

Accredition includes:

  • NATE
  • ACCA
  • And the Arizona BBB.

The quality of our heating and cooling services and workmanship is 100% guaranteed. Triple digit temperatures in the valley do not condemn you to eternal triple digit utility bills. Call today.

 

Central AC Comparisons Are Not The Most Important Component of Air Conditioning Your Phoenix Home

Written by Rm Harrington on . Posted in AC Installation, AC Replacement.

Guaranteed AC SatisficationBefore pricing a new air conditioning system for your home or business, your Glendale AC Installation specialists must perform three primary steps. First, he or she will visit your site, take measurements concerning heating and cooling floor space, and then examine the current condition of your HVAC ductwork and structural layout. Second, he or she will discuss with you the specifics of AC installation, your expectations concerning enhanced indoor air quality, and any possibilities concerning future structural expansions. Lastly, your Phoenix area heating and air conditioning professional will get down to system specifics.

Measuring Central AC Performance

Aside from personal experience, no company can specifically class one brand of central cooling system as better than another. Amana, Carrier, Goodman, Rheem or Trane all provide quality heating and cooling products in both mid-range and high-performance categories. These same companies also provide enhanced units regulated by more energy-efficient control systems, advanced air-filtration systems and customized AC technology.

The performance of any local central air conditioning system is enhanced or hindered by: 

  • The size and structural condition of your home or business
  • The state-of-maintenance and sizing of existing ductwork
  • The climate in and around Phoenix
  • And any additional loads that may come to bear upon the unit.  

This makes accurate comparative AC testing nearly impossible. Each situation must be assessed according to site-specific conditions.

Green Living AC Comparisons

Some AC comparison issues focus on green living. As a recognized performance-efficiency Phoenix AC repair and installation expert, your American Cooling and Heating representative may also suggest certain central air models based upon current Green Building Resource Guides. But you must remember that too great a focus on energy efficient central air systems can reflect the same consequences as a hybrid car. Without the proper balance of all components of the problem, going “super” green may actually cause you to lose money.

It’s really quiet simple: If replacing an older and less efficient AC, you come out a saver. Yet upgrading merely for the sake of going green is not necessarily a winning situation. The U.S. government provides access to SEER (Seasonal Energy-Efficiency Rating) for all makes and models of central air conditioning systems. This makes for a reliable comparative indicator of expected service and efficiency. But this addresses the expectations of the unit rather than the overall specific benefits to the homeowner or the business owner. 

Reputable AC Installation Centers 

Hiring a reputable Glendale air conditioning installation specialist proves to be the best path to selecting a reliable, energy-efficient and dependable central air system. This does not mean that your Phoenix area American Cooling and Heating representative would avoid suggesting a particular brand as the ideal solution for your home or business. A current model of Carrier may offer some minor distinctions that make it a bit more “perfect” for your individual heating and cooling needs. Likewise, Amana may, at the moment of discussion, offer better pricing than a comparable Trane AC system. Or perhaps the current Trane warranty provides a temporary bonus over Carrier. Informing you of such details is the job and the duty of your AC&H service professional.

So how do you compare Phoenix air conditioning service centers? Look for one that provides free estimates, arrives on time and knows the answers to the following questions: 

  • Can I save any money by upgrading the insulation in my home or office?
  • How can I benefit from the present Congressional “fiscal cliff” tax credits?
  • Why are some of your service prices higher or lower than other estimates I have received?
  • Am I comparing apples to apples?
  • What is the CAZ test and how does it affect the efficiency of my central heating and cooling system?
  • Which air filter is best for my purposed system?
  • What does the new “Regional Standards” concept have to do with my cooling expenses?
  • Should I be worried about formicary corrosion?
  • What does ASHRAE Standard 62.2 have to do with indoor air quality and does it pertain to me?
  • What does Testing and Balancing have to do with installing air conditioning systems?
  • Should I be concerned about carbon monoxide?
  • Does air filtration really make a difference?
  • Why is moisture control so important to the cost of heating and cooling?
  • Do I need to worry about any mold issues?
  • Does preventive maintenance really increase my savings, and do you offer a preventive maintenance program?
  • After the install, what can I do to help reduce the energy costs without loosing comfort?
  • Why are you suggesting this particular brand, model and SEER rating?

Quality installation is even more important than the quality of the installed AC unit. Rather than being associated with defective components and short-lived parts, most early-life problems with air conditioning systems can be directly back-traced to shoddy installation workmanship. Before buying your Phoenix central air system, contract a skilled and experienced contractor, one who really cares about reputation and customer service. Contact American Cooling and Heating.

 

 

Cashing In On 2013 Tax Credit Rebates For Phoenix AC Installation

Written by Rm Harrington on . Posted in AC Installation, Air Conditioning.

2013 Tax Credit for AC InstallationAlthough your air conditioning unit may have to work harder due to extreme temperatures and extended summers, the cost of a Phoenix AC installation compares well with the national average. No matter where you live, the installation price for cooling services always boils down to unit size, quality of the purchased unit and any special circumstances concerning the layout and needs of your home.  

Without having the full details of your home or business, including size of structure, age of structure and other critical data, it is impossible to provide exact AC installation pricing. However, the average costs to install a central air conditioner can range from $2,500 to $15,000. In Phoenix, the typical costs a bit below average, ranging from $2,000 to $11,000. For personal reference, consider $9,000 a ballpark figure for a 4-ton indoor and outdoor 16-seer electric system, installed.  

The cost breakout works as follows: 

  • Contractor – Deals with the primary assessment of the home and with the overseeing of the AC installation process
  • Subcontractor – Performs any special services (electrical wiring, custom ductwork and such) for which the contractor is not licensed
  • Labor – Available for assisting the contractor and subcontractor
  • Material – Additional components and tools such as AC refrigerant, recovery machine, new ductwork, clamps and more
  • Tonnage of the unit – Depends upon the size of the structure, number of windows, quality of the insulation and other factors.

American Cooling and Heating is a fully qualified Phoenix AC contractor, equipped to handle every detail of the installation, including any tasks that would normally be assigned to a subcontractor. This assures that your home or business air conditioning project receives personal services from start to finish. 

Reducing the Overall Expenses

You can reduce the costs of AC installation in several ways. It starts by choosing a reputable Phoenix air conditioning installation professional. When searching for a company to handle your heating and cooling needs, demand knowledgeable technicians with the skill to do the job right the first time every time. Avoid any pricing scheme that falls too far below the national average. And remember: A poorly installed AC unit may save funds on the front-end but result in multiple hidden costs that only show up during normal system operation and maintenance.

The best costs savings involve five primary points: 

  • Size the central AC unit correctly
  • Stick with a full-service heating and cooling professional
  • Make sure the unit is installed correctly
  • Take advantage of seasonal discounts
  • Claim you 2013 Tax Credit Rebate. 

Claiming the 2013 Tax Credit Rebate

It was New Year’s Day when Congress approved reinstatement of several popular tax breaks. Both individuals and small businesses benefit from the legislative package. One extension, the “25C Tax Credit”, involves returns for homeowners who install energy efficient appliances in existing homes.

On January 2, 2013 the presiding President of the U.S.A. signed that legislation into law. Here is a partial listing of products include in the details of the plan: 

  • HVAC Components
  • Insulation
  • Home Roofing, Including Metal & Asphalt Materials
  • Non-Solar Water Heaters
  • Doors and Windows.

The credit, set at 10% of costs up to $500, expires on December 31, 2013. Specific energy efficiency levels apply. To get full details and to understand exactly how this program can reduce Phoenix air conditioning installation expenses, view the materials posted at the Database of State Incentives for Renewable & Efficiency (DSIRE).

If you need further help, the experts at Phoenix AC installer American Cooling and Heating can be reached at: (602) 734-5422. Get AC repair, AC replacement, and a choice from popular brands such as Amana, Carrier, Lennox and Trane. Skilled technicians are on hand now to answer your call.

 

 

 

 

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