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Summer in Boca Raton, FL, brings hot, sunny days, with temperatures frequently climbing into the 90s and 100s. When the heat becomes unbearable, there’s nothing better than the cool comfort of air conditioning. If you’re looking to install central air conditioning in your Boca Raton, FL, home, this guide will provide an overview of costs and key factors to consider.
But before diving into the installation process, it's crucial to understand the costs associated with installing central AC in Boca Raton, FL. From equipment expenses to labor costs and regional factors, this comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about the cost of installing central air conditioning in the Sunshine State - Florida.
Central AC Installation Basics
Central air conditioning systems provide whole-home cooling by using an outdoor condenser unit and an indoor air handler connected by ductwork throughout the house. The two core components include:
- Outdoor AC Condenser – This contains the compressor, condenser coil, and fan. The compressor pressurizes refrigerant gas, which is then condensed into a liquid to release heat outside.
- Indoor Air Handler – Houses the evaporator coil and blower fan. Liquid refrigerant piped indoors absorbs heat and evaporates back into a gas before being recirculated outside.
Cold air is continuously circulated through ducts to cool your home. Central air systems are more effective and energy efficient than window units. And unlike a swamp cooler, central AC also lowers humidity levels for added comfort.
Central AC Installation Cost Factors
The cost to install central air conditioning can range from $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the size of your home, type of system, and additional installation requirements. Key factors impacting price include:
- Home Square Footage – Larger homes require more powerful, higher-capacity AC systems, which cost more. Prices start around $3,000 for a 2-ton unit and up to $12,000 for a 5-ton AC unit.
- Type of System – The most affordable option is a basic split system with separate indoor and outdoor units. More expensive packaged systems combine components into one outdoor cabinet.
- Efficiency – Units with higher SEER ratings are more energy efficient but also pricier. Standard 14 SEER models cost less than premium 20 SEER ACs.
- Ductwork – If your home lacks sufficient ductwork, additional installation and materials will add $1,000 or more to the total.
- Added Costs – Permit fees, wiring upgrades, or removing old oil tanks can bump up the price by hundreds of dollars. Professional installation averages $600-$1,000.
Keep reading to learn more about average AC installation pricing for different-sized homes in Boca Raton, FL.
Cost to Install Central AC in a Small Home
For an energy efficient 14 SEER central air conditioning unit in a 1,000 to 1,400 square foot home, expect to pay $3,000 to $5,000 for the system and professional installation. This will cover:
- 2-ton outdoor AC condenser – $1,200 to $1,800
- Air handler/evaporator coil – $500 to $700
- Basic 14 SEER split system – $2,000 to $3,000 total
- Professional installation – $1,000 to $2,000
- Minimal ductwork modifications – $200 to $500
With basic ductwork in place, installing central air in a small Boca Raton, FL home averages $4,000 to $5,000 altogether.
Cost to Install Central AC in a Medium Home
For a 2,000 to 3,000-square-foot home, you’ll likely need a 3 to 4-ton central AC unit running $4,000 to $7,000 for equipment and installation. Breakdown of costs:
- 3 to 4-ton AC condenser – $1,400 to $2,500
- Air handler and evaporator coil – $800 to $1,200
- 14 SEER split system – $3,000 to $5,000
- Professional installation – $1,000 to $2,000
- Ductwork modifications – $500 to $1,000
With some upgrades to existing ducts, expect to pay $5,000 to $7,000 to install central air in a mid-sized Boca Raton, FL home.
Cost to Install Central AC in a Large Home
For a spacious 4,000+ square foot home, a 5-ton central air system will be required at a cost of $7,000 to $12,000 including:
- 5-ton AC condenser – $2,000 to $4,000
- Oversized air handler/coil – $1,500 to $2,000
- 14 SEER split system – $5,000 to $8,000
- Professional installation – $1,000 to $2,000
- Extensive ductwork – $1,000 to $2,000
Larger homes often need substantial ductwork installation, which increases the total cost to $8,000 to $12,000.
How to Reduce Central AC Installation Costs
While central air installation in Boca Raton, FL, costs $4,000 to $12,000 on average, you may be able to trim expenses with the following tips:
- Size Your AC Right – Getting a unit that’s too large will cost more upfront and waste energy over time. Have a professional calculate your ideal capacity.
- Go With a Split System – Split systems with separate indoor and outdoor units cost less than packaged systems.
- Consider a Higher Efficiency Model – Although more expensive initially, higher SEER units save on energy bills in the long run.
- Install in the Fall – Contractors offer better pricing in the off-season, and you’ll be ready for next summer.
- Do Some Legwork Yourself – Get permits and pull any old oil tanks yourself to save on labor fees.
- Ask About Promotions – Dealers sometimes offer seasonal discounts, rebates, and incentive financing.
By properly sizing your AC, shopping fall deals, and doing some prep work yourself, you can reduce the cost of installing central air conditioning in your Boca Raton, FL, home.
Is Installing Central AC a DIY Project?
Technically savvy homeowners may consider taking on central air installation as a DIY project. However, there are a few challenges to weigh:
- HVAC Experience – Proper installation of condensers, air handlers, and ducts requires specialized skills and tools.
- Permits – You’ll need an HVAC license from the state to purchase refrigerants and get inspections legally.
- Safety Risks – Handling refrigerants, electricity, and heavy equipment can be hazardous without proper training.
- Upfront Costs – Specialty equipment like vacuum pumps and gauges are expensive for a one-time project.
- No Warranty – DIY jobs won’t have any kind of labor or workmanship warranty to protect your investment.
Unless you have professional HVAC experience, it is best to leave central air conditioning installation to the experts. The potential safety risks and lack of warranty just aren’t worth DIY savings.
Professional Central AC Installation
By choosing professional AC installation, you get:
- Expert Assessment – Technicians determine the optimal AC system and ductwork needs for your home’s layout.
- Proper Sizing – Precise heat load calculations prevent energy-wasting oversized units.
- Licensed Handling of Refrigerants – Certified technicians are qualified to handle and reclaim refrigerants safely.
- Industry Experience – Most have at least five years of specialized HVAC and ductwork training and know the local building codes.
- Warranty Protection – Reputable companies stand behind their work with warranties on labor and parts.
- Insurance Coverage – You’re protected in the rare case of incidental property damage during installation.
Professional AC installation is recommended to maximize comfort and energy efficiency while minimizing safety risks.
Conclusion:
Installing a central air conditioning system in your New Mexico home can provide much-needed relief during the hot summer months. By understanding the factors that influence installation costs and exploring ways to save money, you can make informed decisions that ensure comfort and efficiency for years to come. Remember to consult with a qualified HVAC contractor to assess your home's specific needs and receive personalized recommendations. With proper planning and professional installation, you can enjoy cool, refreshing air without breaking the bank.
Choosing the Right Boca Raton, FL Central AC Installation Contractor
With such a major home investment, it pays to find the right central air conditioning installation company. Look for:
- Local Reputation – Read reviews and ask neighbors for contractor recommendations.
- Certifications – NATE certification indicates advanced technical skills.
- License and Insurance – Verify required state licenses as well as liability and workers comp coverage.
- Ductwork Expertise – Look for demonstrated experience designing duct systems.
- Brand Options – Choose a contractor that gives you multiple brand and efficiency options.
- Warranties – Expect at least a 5-year warranty on labor and a 10-year warranty on parts.
- Maintenance Plans – Select a company that also provides AC tune-ups and repairs.
Taking the time to choose your installation company carefully will ensure.
Are you looking for Central AC installation pros you can rely on?
Trust Friendly AC for your central AC installation project. We’re the HVAC company that homeowners all over Boca Raton have trusted for 17+ years. If you’re ready for a down-to-the-penny FREE estimate for your AC installation, just contact us. We’ll perform a load calculation to ensure proper AC sizing and then let you know exactly how much it will cost to install your new AC before any work is done.
Ready for your new AC? Contact us for a consultation today!
