Most central air heating and cooling systems can be linked into a home or business's preexisting ductwork. Bypassing the installation of a ductwork system can greatly lower the installation cost of a central air conditioning system. Provided preexisting ductwork is in place, a central air conditioning system designed to meet the air conditioning needs for a 2,000 square foot home can be installed by professionals for between $3,500 and $4,000. High-efficiency central air conditioning systems can be installed for a price at the higher end of this spectrum while minimum-efficiency central air conditioning systems are available for as low as $2,500 and can be professionally installed for a total price at the lower end of this price range.
Ductwork is one of the most important components of a central air conditioning system. An improperly installed ductwork system can dramatically decrease the overall efficiency of the central air conditioning system. If ductwork will need to be done to install a central air conditioning system, the overall price tag of the installation project can jump dramatically. Professionally installing ductwork can cost between $7,000 and $8,000, depending on the scope of the project.
Certain regulations are associated with proper central air conditioning and ductwork design and installation. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) is in charge of creating guidelines and regulations for heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) design in America. This association's Manual J can be referenced to determine a home or building's proper airflow needs on a room-by-room basis in America. Manual D references proper duct system size for HVAC systems. According to ACCA guidelines, ductwork for HVAC systems must be made out of stainless steel.
Running central heating and air conditioning systems regularly in the home can lead to high electric bills. Installing an energy efficient central air conditioning system can help curb the long-term costs of operating a central air conditioning system in the home. Regularly operating an Energy Star labeled energy efficient central air conditioning system can cost upwards of $35 per month.