How much does air conditioner installation cost?

The last thing you want during summer is a sweaty, uncomfortable home. Air conditioners are the perfect way to keep your home nice and cool while you enjoy the sunshine and maybe an ice cream or two. Installing an air conditioner is a tricky process that should be done by a professional so that you can cool down your home faster. 

But how much does it cost to install air conditioning? The average air conditioner installation cost in the US is $15 per hour. This, of course, depends on the job they are tasked to complete. The average cost to install air conditioning in your home is around $5,000. This price varies depending on the size of the house, how many windows you have, and the type of air conditioner you’re planning to install.

Whether you need to install a split system, ducted, portable unit, or window units, or even repair the air conditioner you currently have, the prices may increase or decrease. This guide will be the first step to cooling your home by giving you information on air conditioning unit installation costs, just in time for summer!

Air conditioner installation and repair prices for different types of services

Air conditioning installation costs can vary from service to service. Some electricians are paid by the hour, but others charge based on the air conditioner brand, type, wattage, and other services added to the original job requested. For instance, the table below shows the difference in the cost of installing central air conditioning and window-type units.

Air conditioning installation prices for different types of brands

If you require installing an air conditioner, but you’re not sure how much your brand of air conditioner will cost, here is a breakdown of the average price of each service:

What factors affect air conditioner installation costs?

Many factors can affect the price of installing an air conditioner in your home. Depending on whether you’re installing an air conditioner in a domestic building or a commercial building, the hourly rate can vary. The type of air conditioner will also help determine the final cost of the installation. Certain split system air conditioner brands will increase the overall cost of installation due to specific parts, services, and maintenance. Here are some other factors that may affect the cost of your air conditioning installation:

• Number of windows in the specified location

• Type and size of the unit

• Brand of air conditioner

• Amount of cable ducting required

• Amount of refrigeration piping and interconnecting cable used

• Accessibility to air conditioner

• Location 

Other types of services that electricians can do

There are many other things that electricians, plumbers, and air conditioner installers can do for you while they’re preparing the air conditioner, some of which include: 

• Maintaining air conditioners

• Checking refrigerant levels and recharging

• Replacing circuit board and fuses

• Replacing air filters

• Resetting the thermostat and calibrating 

• Fixing leaks

Do I need to hire an air conditioner installer?

There are many different types of air conditioners, and sometimes you may think you can install them yourself. However, a licensed electrician is the safest and legal option for those who want to install an air conditioner in their home. Of course, a portable air conditioner can be installed by yourself. Still, while it may add cost to install air conditioning in a house, it’s best to hire a professional for the following installations and repairs:

• Ducted system

• Window units

• Central cooling

• Split system

• Pipe repairs

What are some questions to ask an electrician?

Before you hire an electrician to install or repair an air conditioner in your home, there are a few questions that you need to ask to make sure you’re getting the best possible professional for the job.

• Do they have a full Refrigeration & Air Conditioning license?

• How many tradies will be present whilst the installation or repair takes place?

• Do they have insurance?

• What services do they provide?

• Do I need a permit to have this air conditioner?

• What is included in their service fees?

Before hiring a professional, be sure that all tradies present in your home are licensed. Some tradies are certified air conditioner installers, some may be plumbers with certified training in installation and repair, and some have training but no license. Be sure to confirm these before you hire, as your installation process needs to be legal and of the best quality. 

Getting ready to hire someone to install or repair an air conditioner in your home

Getting ready to cool down your home? Let’s get started! Here are the things you’ll need to prepare for your listing. Explain your task, post your listing, review your offers, select the right person, and they’ll get your building cool!

Here are some things to include in your listing: 

• Location

• Budget

• Type of air conditioner

• Size of air conditioner

• Specific room / whole house

• Type of insulation you have

• Whether you need ductwork

• Whether you need repairs or installation

The more information you include in this listing, the better your outcome and the more accurate your air conditioner installation cost will be. It makes it much easier for the electrician to help you out when they come. It’s also a good idea to have everything listed down, so they can refer to it later if needed.