Buying a new air conditioner is an important decision that requires strategic planning.
When it is not an emergency situation, homeowners often want to know when is the best time to buy an air conditioner.
While it’s easy to point to many products, for instance, electronics, and say, Black Friday or Cyber Monday, there is no one date where the price of an AC unit is greatly reduced.
The reality is that the cost of an air conditioner depends on several factors, including your climate, the age of your current system and some seasonal deals that could save you money.
Call HVAC 911 and get referred to a local HVAC contractor who can explain the pros and cons of buying an AC unit during different times of the year to help you make an informed decision. These same contractors can also expertly install the unit and perform yearly maintenance, so it runs at peak efficiency and operates well past its lifespan.
The pros and cons of buying an air conditioner in the spring
Spring is typically an optimal season to invest in a new air conditioning system for several reasons:
Pros:
- With summer heat just around the corner, you can avoid an emergency purchase when your old AC inevitably fails. Be proactive and enjoy cool comfort all season long.
- Many homeowners upgrade their HVAC equipment in spring to qualify for lucrative tax credits and rebates. Consult your tax professional to maximize savings.
- Contractors tend to be less busy in the spring, as opposed to the summertime rush. This means you are more likely to find flexibility in scheduling installations and repairs.
- Due to less demand, springtime AC purchases may be more competitively priced than the peak summer season.
Cons:
- If you make your purchase in early spring, inventory for the newest AC systems may be limited as contractors are just beginning to stock up on these items.
- Depending on when the system is installed, you may wait a few months to use your air conditioner.
Is summer the best time to buy an AC unit?
Purchasing an air conditioner during summer has a few distinct advantages.
Pros:
- Summertime deals offer tempting discounts on AC units and installations. Retailers and contractors compete aggressively on price to win your business.
- You can immediately use your new, high-efficiency air conditioner during hot weather to keep your home cool and comfortable.
- Getting quotes for replacement units is generally easier as contractors are readily available to diagnose issues and provide recommendations.
Cons:
- The sweltering heat makes this season highly prone to emergency AC repairs and last-minute installations might come at a premium cost.
- If there is a major heat wave, inventory could temporarily be low.
- HVAC contractors will likely be busy and not as flexible with their schedules.
Should I purchase a new air conditioner in the fall?
As temperatures cool down entering the fall season, consumer demand for air conditioning also declines. This combination allows for excellent savings
Pros:
- Take advantage of end-of-summer clearance sales, discounts, rebates and other promotional incentives on remaining AC units.
- Contractors are less overwhelmed during this slower season and may offer more flexible installation timelines.
- Enjoy your new AC unit through the fall heat wave and test it out before winter hits.
Cons:
- Limited selection of the past season’s new models.
- Next year’s new models will likely not be available for several months.
- If your new AC system is not installed properly, you will not discover this problem for months until you need the air conditioner to work.
The pros and cons of buying an AC unit in the winter
In many regions of the U.S., wintertime is the least favorable time to purchase a new air conditioner.
Pros:
- If it is a mild winter, contractors will be less occupied and may have more flexibility in scheduling.
- In warmer regions where there are few heating calls during the winter, contractors may be looking for work and might offer discounts to install a new air conditioner.
Cons:
- Heating service calls take priority over AC issues during cold months, so scheduling installation could be challenging – especially if the ground is covered in snow.
- Selection is limited.
- With low consumer demand, there are few, if little, discounts or promotional pricing offers.
- Your new system stays idle for months until warmer weather returns, and you lose out on months of potential usage.
Call HVAC 911 when you need a new AC unit
Ultimately, there are advantages to purchasing an AC unit in each season.
Whenever you do decide to make the purchase, call HVAC 911 and get connected to a local, affiliated contractor who will explain the best cooling options for your home and budget.
If your air conditioner is more than 12 years old, do not leave comfort to chance – a proactive replacement or upgrade is always the coolest approach.
HVAC 911 is a referral service affiliated with the best local licensed, bonded and insured plumbing contractors in the area. They employ highly qualified technicians who receive over 10,000 hours of training and undergo rigorous background checks. Call HVAC 911 today!
