It's a common misconception that it's cheaper to replace the air conditioner (AC) in winter. Actually, if you're thinking about replacing the air conditioner and the boiler, then you should consider doing it together, since most companies offer discounts on houses that replace both at the same time. The misconception is that you'll get better prices because demand is low. The truth is that the winter months are often still a busy time for any legitimate air conditioning and heating company.
It's not necessarily cheaper to replace the AC in winter. The best time to buy a new unit is right before summer. If you have to buy an air conditioner out of season, the lowest rates are usually in February and March. Especially for central air conditioning sales that require installation by an HVAC professional, the best time to make the call is from fall through spring.
And, while you might think that winter is the best time because of less competition, this isn't true; HVAC professionals are busy working on heating units during the winter months, which can contribute to a longer wait and higher expenses than during the fall or spring. While you may not need a professional to install another type of air conditioning unit, such as a window unit or a swamp cooler, prices are usually lower during cold weather months. One reason for this is that air conditioners, like cars, are often available in new models. Dealers want to eliminate the previous year's models out of season to make room for the next versions, which can be very good for people looking to buy air conditioners.
When it comes to selecting an AC system for your home, there are several types of air conditioning systems available and some are better suited to certain homes than others. There is also a wide range of costs for air conditioners with window units in the low range and smart or geothermal central air conditioners in the high end. Determining what type of air conditioning system is right for you will also consider the question of when is the best time to buy an air conditioner. In addition to finding the lowest possible price, other ways to save when buying an AC unit include asking about the credits and tax discounts available for high-efficiency models and asking if you can get free upgrades, such as a smart thermostat.
As an expert in SEO optimization, I recommend considering all factors before deciding when to purchase an AC unit. While it may be tempting to purchase one during winter due to lower prices, it may not be the most cost-effective option in the long run. The best time to buy a new AC unit is right before summer when prices are usually at their lowest. Additionally, if you're looking for high-efficiency models with tax credits and free upgrades, then fall through spring is usually your best bet.
Also remember that, if it's more expensive and more efficient, it could pay off in the long term with your utility bills if you plan to stay home for many years. If you turn on the air conditioner in spring or early summer and it was in bad shape when you turned it off in the fall, the chances of having to pay early on for expensive and more frequent AC repairs are much greater.
