1. What is the AC System Cost Formula?

The AC System Cost Formula estimates the cost of an air conditioning system based on home size and cost per ton of cooling capacity. It provides a rough estimate for residential AC system budgeting.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the AC system cost formula:

Where:

• \( Home\ Square\ Footage \) — Total area of the home in square feet
• \( Cost\ per\ Ton \) — Cost per ton of cooling capacity in dollars
• 400 — Standard square feet cooled per ton of air conditioning

Explanation: The formula calculates the required tonnage by dividing home size by 400 (sq ft per ton), then multiplies by the cost per ton to get total system cost.

3. Importance of AC System Cost Estimation

Details: Accurate cost estimation helps homeowners budget for HVAC system replacement or installation, and compare quotes from contractors.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter home square footage and local cost per ton of AC capacity. For most homes, cost per ton ranges from $2,500 to $6,000 depending on system type and region.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is 400 sq ft per ton always accurate?
A: This is a general rule. Actual needs vary by climate, insulation, windows, and home design. A Manual J calculation provides precise sizing.

Q2: What factors affect cost per ton?
A: System type (central, mini-split), efficiency rating (SEER), brand, installation complexity, and regional labor costs.

Q3: Does this include installation costs?
A: Yes, cost per ton typically includes both equipment and professional installation.

Q4: How often should AC systems be replaced?
A: Most systems last 10-15 years. Replacement may be needed if repairs exceed 50% of replacement cost or efficiency drops significantly.

Q5: Are there additional costs not included?
A: Ductwork modifications, electrical upgrades, or permits may add to the total cost beyond this estimate.