GuideViews

Cost is very important to take into consideration when purchasing an air conditioner.  The cost varies depending on the type and size of air conditioner that you need. 

You can buy a good 12,000 BTU portable air conditioner capabale of cooling 500 sq ft of space for under $500.  Window air conditioners are less expensive than portable units and you can find a good 12,000 BTU window unit for around $250. 

Central air conditioner manufacturers don't publish a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) but if you know what brand and size you want you can get multiple estimates to make sure you are getting the best price.  Adding central air conditioning to an existing forced-air heating system in a 2,000-square-foot house averages  $3,500 -$4,000.  The work can be done by two technicians in 2-3 days with little or no change to the existing ducting.  If ducts must be added, the work time doubles, as does the cost to $7,000 -$8,000 or more

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Estimates for a older and smaller houses of 800-1,000 square feet with no existing duct work can run around $2,100 -$6,000, or as high as  $10,000 or more, depending on the type and quality of equipment installed, the amount of space available for installing ducts and vents, and the local economy.

The most common mistake is buying a bigger system than needed.  It costs more and doesn't do the job as well as one that's the right size.