Industry-Wide Pricing Changes for A/C Units
HVAC systems are essential to air quality and comfort in your home. Without a reliable HVAC system, the extreme seasons can become unbearable. When summer rolls around and temperatures rise, having a high-efficiency cooling system can make all the difference.
In recent years, HVAC system prices have seen a sharp increase, and there are no signs of slowing down. Of course, air conditioning systems fall under this category and have seen prices hike up as much as 7-9%. This article will examine why HVAC system prices and AC replacement costs are on the rise and when you should consider replacing your system to save the most money.
Why Are HVAC Manufacturers Raising the Cost of A/C Units?
You may want to blame the increase in HVAC prices on the manufacturers, but it’s not quite that simple. Several national and international social and economic factors have changed in the last year or so, forcing HVAC manufacturers to adapt in response. The variables responsible are many, but the biggest ones affecting HVAC services are COVID-19, the increase in raw material prices, and the increase in costs for other industries.
COVID-19
COVID-19 has disrupted our lives fundamentally, at the personal level as well as the global economic level. Businesses in every industry have been affected, including HVAC services. With many companies doing remote work, more workers are making a living from home than ever before. That means more people have become aware of any uncomfortable air quality or HVAC issues present at home.
Because of this, HVAC services have seen an overwhelming increase in demand for new air conditioner units. The rise in demand has drained resources across the industry, with HVAC manufacturers struggling to keep up. Thus, central air conditioner costs begin to rise.
Increased Cost of Raw Materials
As demand increases, the HVAC industry is seeing an increase in the price of raw materials. Manufacturers can’t make the units without these raw materials, so they must raise costs to answer the needs of the post-pandemic world. Reflective insulation saw a 4% higher price, ADP coils and general filters saw a 5% increase in price, Thermaflex saw a 6% jump in price, and wrap insulation and PVC fittings saw a 15% increase in price. Also, furnace accessory prices jumped by as much as 17%.
While not all of these elements are directly related to A/C replacement costs, many of them are—these factors contribute to that 7-9% price jump for new air conditioners. Related industries like construction are seeing a similar hike in raw material price, so the HVAC industry isn’t the only one affected. Still, now is the best time to consider a replacement air conditioner before prices continue to increase.
When to Replace Your A/C Unit
If you’re wondering when the right time to replace your unit would be, it may already be time. Still, it’s understandable if you’re intimidated by A/C replacement costs. While central air conditioner costs can be a significant financial consideration, especially now with unit price increases, it may just be worth the price when you contemplate the following factors.
HVAC Maintenance
Take a moment to assess your HVAC system. Have you been keeping up with A/C tune-ups and maintenance? If not, there are a few significant consequences to be aware of.
First, the price of your monthly energy bill will likely go up as your unit’s efficiency goes down. Without regular maintenance, your air conditioning unit won’t be able to maintain its energy efficiency. With this in mind, if your energy bills are high enough, a modernized, energy-efficient A/C replacement may just pay for itself.
Second, maintenance allows you to eliminate any potential health hazards related to your air conditioner. Because air conditioning units regulate (or don’t regulate) the moisture content in your indoor air, mold and bacteria can gather and grow in the corners of your HVAC system. These pollutants can circulate through your home, negatively affecting your health and your family’s health.
At a certain point, A/C replacement costs begin to pale in comparison to the price you can pay for a poorly maintained unit or HVAC system. When you consider that fact alongside the steady increase in air conditioning unit prices, you’ve got your answer. The time to replace your unit is now.
HVAC Repair
HVAC repairs can come at a high price, and they’re always needed when you least expect them. If your air conditioning unit is on the verge of a complete breakdown, or if you’ve needed several high price repairs already, a replacement installation is worth the price. That is especially true during the hottest, most humid summer months when enduring brutal indoor heat can be a far steeper price to pay than another repair.
Choose Black Diamond Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air
Black Diamond Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air is the leading authority on HVAC services in the proud state of Utah. In the last ten years, we’ve provided Utah with the best HVAC services and the most knowledgeable team of HVAC technicians available.
With us, despite manufacturers raising the price of air conditioning units, you can always count on a fair price. Give us a call today!
