My Experience with Central Air Conditioning Installation: What It Really Costs and What You Should Know
I never thought I’d be the kind of person who would write about central air conditioning, but here I am. After a long summer of battling window units and uneven cooling, I finally decided to look into installing central AC. I live in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, where the weather can swing from humid to freezing in a matter of weeks. Comfort matters here, and so does energy efficiency.
This post is for anyone who’s wondering about the cost of installing central air conditioning, especially if you’re trying to figure out what’s worth it and what’s not. I’ll walk you through what I learned, what I paid, and why I chose Timothy Santos Electric to handle the wiring and installation.
Why I Started Looking into Central AC
It began with a few sleepless nights and a noisy window unit that couldn’t keep up. I started researching central air systems and quickly realized that the cost wasn’t just about buying a unit. It involved wiring, ductwork, permits, and labor. I wanted something reliable, quiet, and energy-efficient. I also wanted to make sure the installation was done safely and up to code.
That’s when I found Timothy Santos Electric. They’re local, licensed, and available 24 hours a day. I gave them a call and scheduled a consultation.
What Goes into the Cost of Installing Central Air Conditioning
The first thing I learned is that the cost of installing central air conditioning depends on several factors:
Home size: Larger homes need bigger units with more cooling capacity.
Ductwork: If your home doesn’t have existing ducts, installation costs go up.
Electrical upgrades: Older homes may need panel upgrades to support the system.
SEER rating: Higher efficiency units cost more upfront but save money over time.
Labor: Rates vary depending on location and complexity.
In my case, I had existing ductwork but needed a panel upgrade. The total cost came out to around $6,200, which included equipment, wiring, and labor.
Understanding the Electrical Side of Things
Wiring is a huge part of central AC installation. You need a dedicated circuit, usually 30 to 50 amps, and proper grounding. The outdoor unit connects to the indoor air handler, and the thermostat needs to be wired correctly to control everything.
Timothy Santos Electric handled all of this. They used 10-gauge copper wire, installed a disconnect box, and made sure everything was grounded. They also tested the system before leaving to make sure it was working properly.
If you’re curious about the technical side, check out American Wire Gauge – Wikipedia and HVAC Safety Guidelines – OSHA.
What I Paid and Why It Was Worth It
Here’s a breakdown of my costs:
Central AC unit: $3,800
Electrical work: $1,200
Labor: $1,000
Permit and inspection fees: $200
Total: $6,200
I chose a 3-ton unit with a SEER rating of 16. It’s efficient enough for my 2,000-square-foot home and keeps every room cool. I also installed a smart thermostat, which helps manage energy use.
For more on SEER ratings, visit SEER Rating – Wikipedia and ENERGY STAR Program – Wikipedia.
Why I Chose Timothy Santos Electric
Timothy Santos Electric brings trusted service to homeowners, builders, and contractors throughout the region. Our team:
Has full licensing and insurance for Massachusetts projects
Offers 24-hour service throughout the week
Stays up-to-date with changes in the National Electrical Code
Provides quotes with no hidden fees
Respects your home with clean work and reliable scheduling
They also offer AC upgrade services and general electrical work. You can learn more about their team on the About Us page.
Frequently Asked Questions I Had Before Installing
Do I need a dedicated circuit for central AC?
Yes. Sharing circuits can lead to overloads and tripped breakers.
What wire size is used for central AC?
Usually, 10-gauge copper wire is used for a 30-amp circuit. Always check your unit’s specs.
Can I install central AC without ductwork?
Yes, but you’ll need a ductless mini-split system, which has different wiring requirements.
Is grounding essential?
Absolutely. It protects your home and equipment from electrical faults.
How long does installation take?
Typically, 1 to 3 days, depending on the wiring complexity and condition of the ductwork.
Final Thoughts
Installing central air conditioning was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my home. The cost of installing central air conditioning might seem high at first, but the comfort, energy savings, and added home value make it worthwhile.
If you’re in Tewksbury or nearby and thinking about upgrading your cooling system, I highly recommend Timothy Santos Electric. They made the process easy, safe, and reliable.
Visit our website to learn more or schedule a service. You can also explore their services, read about their team on the About Us page, and check out their AC installation tips.
š” Get in Touch Today
š¢ Business Name: Timothy Santos Electric
š Address: 35 Hillman St #1, Tewksbury, MA 01876, United States
š Phone: +1 781-859-6464
š Business Hours:
✅ Monday–Sunday: Open 24 hours
š Website: santoselectric.com
➕Plus Code: JQ95+X8 Tewksbury, Massachusetts, USA
š Visit Us on the Map: Google Maps Location
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