Cost of Replacing AC Unit?
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It's such a rip off in my opinion because I got quoted for $3,500 from another independent contractor.
That is why it is very important you do research before making a purchase. I would of paid almost 4x more if I went with the Costco vendor.
It's a 2 story townhouse. So the AC guy recommended 3 ton AC compressor for $50 more. From the other estimates I got it was for a 2.5 ton AC compressor. I did not request an estimate for any duct work done or an econmizer.
I can't comment on the quality of the AC guy because it just has been a couple days with the new AC. As of today it's good. This weekend he will install a new ac thermostat with LCD display with wifi connection. So I can control the ac through my smart phone.
iacrenter
Well-known member
Definitely get multiple opinions. Our unit broke recently and the first two vendors said it wasn't repairable. They recommended replacing the unit and that would cost anywhere from ~$5k for just the outside condenser to $7-15k for complete system replacement (outside condenser, attic coils, and heater).
While doing our due diligence for a new system, a 4th vendor looked at our system and said he could repair it. We were a little hesitant but spending a few hundred dollars versus thousands sounded good. So far very happy with the repair and no problems during the heat wave. PM me if you are interested in the vendors I used.
Keep in mind our system was only ~10 years old and life expectancy should be around 15-20 years. If your system is older and/or has had multiple problems/repairs, it may be worthwhile to consider a new system for energy savings and peace of mind.
While doing our due diligence for a new system, a 4th vendor looked at our system and said he could repair it. We were a little hesitant but spending a few hundred dollars versus thousands sounded good. So far very happy with the repair and no problems during the heat wave. PM me if you are interested in the vendors I used.
Keep in mind our system was only ~10 years old and life expectancy should be around 15-20 years. If your system is older and/or has had multiple problems/repairs, it may be worthwhile to consider a new system for energy savings and peace of mind.
zubs
Well-known member
I'm not going to a big box retailer for an estimate. My experience is that they charge higher as they have more expenses. For example a dedicated sales team. Also, I found that the big box retailer outsource/subcontract the HVAC to another contracor. Then in effect, they get a commission/piece of the pie of the HVAC income.
I found that the independent HVAC contractors gave me the best quote.
I found that the independent HVAC contractors gave me the best quote.
irvinehomeshopper
Well-known member
Be aware of Costco. Costco does not check on the competency level of its contractor. Selection on it vendor was purely based on commission.
I will stay away from them because they quoted me at 11-12k. The way the vender quoted me was so greasy and not straight forward regarding the estimate. He explained to me what needs to be done, and he then said to me sign here it's only $250 a month. I was like hold up, what's the total price and he told me 11-12k. I then told told him that's something to think about.irvinehomeshopper said:
It's such a rip off in my opinion because I got quoted for $3,500 from another independent contractor.
That is why it is very important you do research before making a purchase. I would of paid almost 4x more if I went with the Costco vendor.
nosuchreality
Well-known member
There's a lot more to consider, how big is your home, 1 story or 2? 3?
Are you upgrading ducting? Are you updating zone controls? Are you installing an economizer?
If you're not getting a system with an economizer, you should consider it. They basically act like a whole house fan but suck the air backwards through your AC vents and exhaust the air, so you can crack a couple windows and quickly cool the entire house. Really useful Fall & Spring when it's hot during the day and the house heats up, but at 7PM at night, like last night it's already 70 outside.
Are you upgrading ducting? Are you updating zone controls? Are you installing an economizer?
If you're not getting a system with an economizer, you should consider it. They basically act like a whole house fan but suck the air backwards through your AC vents and exhaust the air, so you can crack a couple windows and quickly cool the entire house. Really useful Fall & Spring when it's hot during the day and the house heats up, but at 7PM at night, like last night it's already 70 outside.
nosuchreality said:
It's a 2 story townhouse. So the AC guy recommended 3 ton AC compressor for $50 more. From the other estimates I got it was for a 2.5 ton AC compressor. I did not request an estimate for any duct work done or an econmizer.
I can't comment on the quality of the AC guy because it just has been a couple days with the new AC. As of today it's good. This weekend he will install a new ac thermostat with LCD display with wifi connection. So I can control the ac through my smart phone.
nosuchreality
Well-known member
Depends on where your at and when you're home. Your neighbors also make a big difference. i.e. A half deaf machinist with a penchant for a beer and 95.5 and restoring a car in his garage may encourage you to keep your windows closed.
As do those that fry a lot fish, reheat fish or smoke like a coal plant on their patio.
As do those that fry a lot fish, reheat fish or smoke like a coal plant on their patio.